Minnesota shows solid population gains, but growth will slow

Minnesota gained more than 32,000 residents this year, bringing the state’s population to an all-time high of 5,489,594, new U.S. Census Bureau estimates say.

But the state’s population gains may be showing signs of the slower growth expected to shape Minnesota’s future.

The modest 0.6 percent year-over-year growth rate put Minnesota at No. 24 nationally, well below the state’s oil-rich neighbor. North Dakota remains the country’s fastest growing state. Its population grew just over 2 percent as its oil fields continue drawing workers, even as the boom fades.

http://www.startribune.com/minnesota-shows-solid-population-gains-but-growth-will-slow/363280241/