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

Key Takeaways:

• Iowa’s population grew by 23,074 people from 2023 to 2024, mainly due to international migration.
• Net international migration added 19,439 people to Iowa, while domestic migration saw a net loss of 231 residents.
• Immigrants are helping to offset Iowa’s brain drain by contributing to local economies and revitalizing communities.
• Employment opportunities, safety, and family ties are key factors attracting immigrants to Iowa.
• Iowa is now the 32nd-most populous state, with just over 3.2 million residents.

Iowa’s Population Growth Driven by Immigration

Iowa experienced a significant population increase from 2023 to 2024, gaining 23,074 residents, primarily due to a surge in international immigration, according to U.S. Census data released last month. This growth marks one of the most substantial annual increases for the state in recent years.

International vs. Domestic Migration

Between July 1, 2023, and July 1, 2024, a net total of 19,439 people migrated to Iowa from outside the United States. In contrast, domestic migration saw a slight net loss, with 231 more people leaving Iowa for other states than moving in.

This trend aligns with patterns observed in neighboring Midwestern states like Illinois and Nebraska, where international migration outpaces domestic inflow. The influx of immigrants is helping to counterbalance the number of residents relocating elsewhere within the country.

Shifting Population Rankings

As of July 1, Iowa ranks as the nation’s 32nd-most populous state, with a little over 3.2 million residents. Previously holding the 31st position, Iowa was surpassed by Nevada due to higher growth rates in other states.

From July 1, 2022, to July 1, 2023, Iowa gained 15,594 people. This figure is a noticeable increase compared to the net gains of 4,207 and 7,472 in the two preceding years, respectively.

Record-High International Migration

The United States as a whole experienced the highest level of international migration in decades, with a net of 2.8 million people moving from other countries. Iowa’s share of this influx reflects the state’s growing appeal to immigrants seeking new opportunities.

In the year ending July 1, 2023, 16,114 international migrants arrived in Iowa, compared to 10,340 the previous year. These newcomers are playing a critical role in the state’s demographic and economic landscape.

Attracting Newcomers to the Heartland

Erica Johnson, founding executive director of the Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice, highlights the factors drawing immigrants to Iowa. “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.”

According to 2021 data from the American Immigration Council, 6.3% of Iowa’s population is foreign-born, and immigrants make up 7.1% of the state’s workforce. These individuals are filling essential roles across various industries, contributing to economic growth.

Revitalizing Communities and Economies

The increase in international migrants is helping to fill gaps created by residents leaving the state, often referred to as a “brain drain.” Johnson noted that immigrants are “breathing new life into downtowns in lots of rural communities and supporting schools in some rural places that have been losing populations.”

By settling in both urban and rural areas, immigrants are revitalizing local economies, bolstering the labor force, and fostering cultural diversity within communities.

Addressing the Brain Drain

The departure of young people and recent college graduates to other states has been a persistent challenge for Iowa. In recent years, the state has seen one of the highest rates of brain drain in the country.

However, the past year showed a significant decrease in the rate of domestic out-migration. While people still left the state, the net loss of 231 residents to other states is considerably lower compared to 2023, when a net 3,674 people moved away.

Natural Population Growth

In addition to migration patterns, natural population change—births minus deaths—accounted for a net growth of 3,829 people. This growth further contributes to the overall increase in Iowa’s population.

Looking Ahead

As international migration continues to shape Iowa’s demographic future, the state may see sustained population growth and economic development. The influx of immigrants not only offsets the challenges posed by domestic out-migration but also enriches the cultural fabric of the Hawkeye State.