Census data: Immigration drives Iowa’s population growth in 2024

Key Takeaways:

• Iowa gained 23,074 people between July 2023 and July 2024.
• Net international migration contributed 19,439 new residents to Iowa.
• Domestic migration resulted in a net loss of 231 people to other states.
• Foreign-born individuals make up 6.3% of Iowa’s population and 7.1% of its workforce.
• International migrants are bolstering rural communities and supporting local schools.

Immigration Fuels Iowa’s Population Surge in 2024

A Surge in Population Driven by International Migration

Iowa gained 23,074 people from July 1, 2023, to July 1, 2024, according to U.S. Census data released last month. This growth is primarily attributed to international migration, with a net of 19,439 people moving to Iowa from outside the United States during that period. This marks a significant increase compared to previous years, reflecting a broader national trend.

Domestic Migration and Ongoing Brain Drain

While international arrivals soared, Iowa continued to experience a slight decline in domestic migration. A net of 231 people departed Iowa for other states between July 2023 and July 2024. This ongoing “brain drain”—the departure of young people and recent college graduates—is a concern for the state. In the previous year, the net loss was even higher, with 3,674 people moving away.

Iowa’s Changing Population Ranking

With a population of just over 3.2 million people as of July 1, Iowa now ranks as the country’s 32nd-most populous state . It was previously ranked 31st but was surpassed by Nevada due to differences in growth rates. Despite the drop in ranking, Iowa’s overall population has grown, thanks largely to international migration.

National Context of Immigration Trends

The influx of immigrants to Iowa aligns with a national surge in international migration. The United States saw its highest level in decades, with a net of 2.8 million people moving from other countries. Iowa’s share of this growth highlights its role in the broader demographic shifts happening across the nation.

The Impact of Immigrants on Iowa’s Communities

Foreign-born residents now constitute 6.3% of Iowa’s population and make up 7.1% of the state’s workforce, according to 2021 data from the American Immigration Council. This growing demographic is vital to the state’s economy and cultural fabric.

Erica Johnson, founding executive director of the Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice, emphasized the positive impact of immigrants on the state.

“They’re pulled to Iowa because we have an economy that needs them, that is hiring essentially for a workforce that depends on them,” Johnson said. “And because they have family here and because they have heard that Iowa is a comparatively safe and accessible place.”

Revitalizing Rural Areas and Supporting Schools

International migrants are not only filling workforce gaps but also breathing new life into rural communities and supporting local schools. Johnson noted that immigrants help counteract population declines in these areas, contributing to the vibrancy and sustainability of smaller towns.

“It’s breathing new life into downtowns in lots of rural communities and supporting schools in some rural places that have been losing populations,” she said.

Natural Population Growth

In addition to migration, natural change from births and deaths accounted for a net growth of 3,829 people in Iowa. This factor, combined with international migration, shapes the state’s overall population dynamics and future prospects.

Looking Ahead

While domestic outmigration remains a challenge, the influx of international migrants offers opportunities for economic growth and cultural enrichment in Iowa. As immigrants continue to choose the Hawkeye State as their new home, they play a crucial role in its development and diversity.