OHIO — Ohio is poised for a significant population decrease, with a recent report from the Department of Development projecting the state will lose around 675,000 residents by 2050.
This expected 5.7% decline, spanning from 2020 to 2050, contrasts sharply with national trends, as the U.S. population is forecasted to grow by 12% over the same period.
The report attributes Ohio’s declining population to several factors: an aging demographic, reduced fertility rates, and slow migration.
The trend began in late 2020, coinciding with a surge in mortality rates during the COVID-19 pandemic. In that year, Ohio recorded 143,600 deaths, the highest in its history, followed by an increase to approximately 147,500 deaths in 2021.
While the pandemic intensified these losses, state officials note the decline would have occurred regardless, driven by the state’s aging population.
The Department of Development highlighted the role of a declining fertility rate, which it attributes to trends of women delaying childbirth and choosing to have fewer children.
This mirrors national patterns seen in recent years.
Officials warn that this population loss may affect Ohio’s economic landscape.
A shrinking population could lead to reduced city and state tax revenues, impacting government services and city maintenance in the years ahead.
