Fastest shrinking, US cities
US cities with the steepest population decline from the 2020 census to 2024. Lackland AFB, Texas leads at -28.3%. 6,811 cities qualify in total. Cities with fewer than 5,000 residents are excluded. California carries 5 of the top 25 entries.
Flip the list · Fastest growing, US cities →UPDATED 2026-07-15 · DATA: US CENSUS BUREAU ACS 5-YEAR ESTIMATES
Frequently asked
Which city has the lowest population growth?
Lackland AFB, Texas ranks #1 with -28.3% (2024 American Community Survey).
What are the top 5 cities by population growth?
Lackland AFB, Texas, Lacombe, Louisiana, Highlands, Texas, Poplar Grove, Illinois, Vandalia, Illinois.
How many cities are in this ranking?
6,811 cities qualify after filtering for population minimums and data availability (minimum 5,000 residents). The ranking covers 2024 ACS 5-year data.
How is population growth measured?
Percent change in population from the prior decennial census. Source: US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-year estimates (2024).