15 Fastest-Declining States in the US

4. California

Percentage Change in Population: -1.20%

Population Decline: 472,311

California’s population decreased by over 400,000 residents between 2020 and 2022, ranking it fourth among states with the highest population decline. The decline in California’s population began with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which triggered an increase in migrations. The state’s high cost of living, particularly in housing, plays a significant role in out-migration. The average California house costs close to $800,000, more than double the amount in states like Texas.