New Population Trend Report Brings Encouraging News For Minnesota

When it comes to people in Minnesota leaving to live in another state versus the number of people moving to Minnesota from another state, the trend has not been good in recent years.

In fact, for seven consecutive years, Minnesota lost more people to other states than it gained. Some experts believe that the trend was primarily driven by residents moving to warmer, lower-tax states like Florida and Texas.

Demographic shifts were also believed to be a factor, with a significant, consistent loss of young adults (aged 18–24) and those in their late 30s being a major driver.

However, recent census data shows encouraging news, and hopes that it's the beginning of a new trend.

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2025 U.S. Census Bureau Data Brings Encouraging News For Minnesota

According to 2025 U.S. Census Bureau data, Minnesota reportedly experienced a net positive in domestic migration for the first time since 2018, with approximately 8,000 to 8,300 more people moving to the state than leaving.

The influx is believed to be driven by factors such as a high quality of life and, for some, a return to the state, with about 3,000 people aged 25 to 39 moving in annually.

This shift reverses a trend of net losses, but it's worth noting that the state's overall population growth has slowed due to reduced international migration. That state also has a ways to go to make up for the net loss of 43,853 people from 2021 through 2023.

Also, while this is an overall positive sign for population retention, some analysts note that the state still faces long-term demographic challenges, including an aging population, which impacts overall growth.

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However, breaking a 7-year streak of losing more people to other states than it gains is a good start for Minnesota, allowing for cautious optimism and hopes that the growth trend continues now for several consecutive years.

Minnesota Still Ranks As One Of The Best States To Live

Another factor on Minnesota's side for population growth is how well it does time and time again on studies ranking the best states to live.

Minnesota is consistently ranked as one of the top 5 best states to live in the U.S., frequently appearing at #4 in 2025-2026 rankings due to its high quality of life, excellent infrastructure, and strong healthcare.

It is also highly regarded for its natural environment, strong job market, and as a top state for families.