Fastest shrinking, US counties · 2000
US counties with the steepest population decline since the prior decennial census. Aleutians West Census Area, Alaska leads at -42.3%. 3,122 counties qualify in total. North Dakota carries 12 of the top 25 entries.
Flip the list · Fastest growing, US counties →UPDATED 2026-06-02 · DATA: US CENSUS BUREAU ACS 5-YEAR ESTIMATES
Frequently asked
Which county has the lowest population growth?
Aleutians West Census Area, Alaska ranks #1 with -42.3% (2000 American Community Survey).
What are the top 5 counties by population growth?
Aleutians West Census Area, Alaska, Loving County, Texas, Esmeralda County, Nevada, Reagan County, Texas, Burke County, North Dakota.
How many counties are in this ranking?
3,122 counties qualify after filtering for population minimums and data availability. The ranking covers 2000 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 (2000).