Idaho population continues rural to urban shift

Idaho’s population base is continuing to shift from rural to urban counties.

Between July 1, 2016 and July 1, 2017 the U.S. Census Bureau said six urban counties, including Ada, Canyon, Kootenai, Bonneville, Bannock and Twin Falls had a combined population of 1,116,173 people. That accounts for 75 percent of the state’s population growth and 65 percent of overall population.

Idaho’s total population was estimated at 1,716,943.

Bonneville County was among six counties that reported growth in excess of 1,000 people. Bonneville County added 2,570 people during the period, a growth rate of 2.3 percent.

Two counties experienced a decrease in population. In eastern Idaho, Power County’s population dropped by 61 people.

Nearly 93 percent of Idaho’s population was due to people moving into the state. 40 of the state’s 44 counties recorded increases in net migration. But four, including Madison and Power Counties, experienced losses in net migration. 809 more people left than moved in.

Births and deaths are the other major contributors to population changes. Statewide there was a net gain of 10,328 people.

Clark County experienced the smallest number of births (8) and the fewest deaths (2). Three Idaho counties, Ada (2,271), Canyon (1,763) and Bonneville (1,147) had a natural increase in births minus deaths.