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Minnesota's Population Growth Driven by Migration
New report highlights the rising importance of migration to Minnesota's population and workforce dynamics
Published on Feb. 26, 2026
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A new report from the Minnesota State Demographic Center shows that migration is becoming the primary driver of population growth in Minnesota, accounting for 42% of the state's population growth in 2023. This shift has major implications for regional economies like Central Minnesota, where workforce shortages and population stability are ongoing concerns. While Minnesota has experienced domestic migration losses in recent years, the report found those losses are smaller than in many other Midwestern states, indicating Minnesota remains relatively competitive in attracting new residents.
Why it matters
Migration trends can directly impact regional workforce availability, housing demand, economic growth opportunities, and population stability in smaller towns. As Minnesota's population dynamics evolve, understanding the role of migration is crucial for communities like Central Minnesota to support local businesses, maintain workforce levels, and ensure long-term economic growth.
The details
The report found that migration accounted for 42% of Minnesota's population growth in 2023, and its importance will continue rising as birth rates decline and the population ages. Minnesota has lost residents to other states for roughly two decades, with losses spiking during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, those losses have slowed recently, and Minnesota has begun gaining residents again from domestic migration. Age plays a major role in migration trends, with about 30% of domestic migrants being between ages 15 and 29, often leaving for college or early career opportunities, and older residents moving to warmer states. Migration is critical for filling workforce shortages in essential jobs like healthcare, education, and skilled trades.
- In 2022 alone, about 120,500 people moved into Minnesota and about 124,300 people moved out.
- Minnesota lost nearly 50,000 residents through domestic migration between 2020 and 2022 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- For roughly two decades, Minnesota has consistently lost more residents to other states than it gained.
The players
Minnesota State Demographic Center
A state agency that conducts research and analysis on Minnesota's population dynamics.
Central Minnesota
A region in Minnesota that includes cities like St. Cloud, Brainerd, and Alexandria, and is impacted by the state's migration trends.
The takeaway
Migration is becoming one of the most important factors shaping Minnesota's future, with significant implications for regional communities like Central Minnesota. Attracting and retaining residents will be key to supporting local businesses, maintaining workforce levels, and ensuring long-term economic growth in these areas.
