Portland State University sent out data from their recent population research. According to PSU, Oregon’s population losses were concentrated in Multnomah County. Oregon’s overall population dropped from about 4,256,000 to about 4,240,000 – a decline of about 16,000 residents — according to Census Bureau data.
The study shows that after decades of population growth, the U.S. Census Bureau says Oregon is seeing more people moving out of the state than moving in – with much of the decline coming from people leaving Portland and Multnomah County.
Crime, vandalism or homelessness are considered factors in Oregon’s population decline. Howevwer, the COVID-19 pandemic played a big role where remote work and a tax incentive for working outside of the state for an Oregon employer also played a role.
New census numbers show 21 of Oregon’s 36 counties lost residents between July 2021 and July 2022. Multnomah County led the way with a decline of more than 10,000 people, the bureau says. Where Multnomah County loss, nearby Clark County, Washington gained. Vancouver and Camas saw population increases with many Portlanders choosing to live across the Columbia River.
PSU’s data in 2022 differs from the Census Bureau’s in that the bureau has earlier access to data such as address changes compared to PSU’s research center. The population research expert added that the fertility rate is a factor that should be highlighted. The birth rate has been declining.
