Immigration Fuels Missouri's Population Growth Amid Natural Decline

Missouri's population has experienced a notable increase, reaching over 6.25 million residents by 2024, marking a 1.5% growth since 2020.

This growth is primarily attributed to migration, as the state welcomed more than 90,000 new residents during this period.

According to the University of Missouri Extension, this influx has offset a natural population decline of over 11,000 people, resulting from more deaths than births.

Luke Dietterle, a regional economic development specialist with MU Extension, highlighted that Missouri's population growth is entirely driven by migration, both from other states and international sources.

He noted that approximately three out of five new residents since 2020 have been international migrants.

Among Missouri's metropolitan areas, the Springfield Metro Area, encompassing cities like Nixa, Ozark, Republic, Bolivar, Marshfield, and Willard, led the state's growth with a 3.08% increase, adding nearly 15,000 residents between 2020 and 2023.

Similarly, Columbia saw a 2.68% growth, welcoming around 5,600 new residents during the same period.

In contrast, some mid-Missouri counties, such as Randolph and Audrain, experienced population declines of 2.6%.

This decrease poses challenges for local workforces, particularly in manufacturing sectors.

Kaylee Paffrath, president of the Moberly Area Economic Development Corporation, emphasized the importance of balancing job availability with a sufficient workforce.

She stated, "It's hard to attract a business if you don't have the people."

To address workforce challenges, community leaders in Mexico, Missouri, initiated the Workforce Resource Assistance Program (WRAP) four years ago.

This program provides support to approximately 1,000 workers, offering assistance with issues ranging from food insecurities to situational emergencies.

Dana Keller, executive director of the Mexico Area Chamber of Commerce, described WRAP specialists as "guidance counselors for work," helping employees navigate various challenges to maintain employment.

As Missouri's population continues to evolve, the state faces the dual task of managing growth in urban areas while addressing declines in rural regions.

Strategic initiatives like WRAP and efforts to attract new residents are crucial in ensuring a balanced and thriving population across the state.