Over the past few years, Ohio’s population has been declining as more individuals are leaving the state than are arriving in.
Between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022, Ohio’s population decreased by almost 16,000, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. It became the 43rd state with the slowest rate of population growth as a result.
Not every Ohio community is being impacted by this trend, though. Many residents have left some communities, while others have been successful in attracting new residents. Some of the reasons why so many people are leaving these Ohio towns are listed below.
1. Cleveland
Despite being the largest city in Ohio, Cleveland is also one of the smaller ones. Between 2021 and 2022, the city lost almost 5,700 residents, or 1.1% of its total population. Cleveland has struggled with poverty, violence, racial tensions, and a faltering economy for decades.
A lot of people are moving outside of the city in search of better opportunities. The city is ranked 10th out of the 50 largest cities in the United States in terms of overall state and local tax rates. There is also a tax burden.
2. Youngstown
The relocation of residents and the loss of jobs have also had a negative impact on Youngstown. Approximately 1,300 people left the city between 2021 and 2022, resulting in a 2.1% population decline.
Once a significant center for the production of steel, Youngstown was left with unemployment, poverty, and urban deterioration as that industry collapsed in the late 20th century.
While some residents have left the city, many have given up on it becoming a hub for learning and innovation.
3. Dayton
Dayton has recently faced numerous challenges, including the COVID-19 epidemic, the drug problem, and the destructive 2019 storms. In 2021–2022, over 1,100 people left the city, resulting in a 0.8% population decline.
There are a lot of persons in Dayton who are below the federal poverty level. It comes in at number seven out of the 50 biggest communities in the United States.
In terms of low median family income, the city comes in at number 49 among the same group of municipalities.
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4. Toledo
The insufficient growth and change of their economies has been a problem for cities like Toledo. In 2021–2022, roughly 900 people left the city, resulting in a 0.6% population decline.
Toledo depends heavily on the automobile industry, but it has been up against competition from other nations and technological advancements.
The city also has a high crime rate. The number of major crimes per 100,000 residents places it in 18th place among the 50 largest municipalities in the United States.
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5. Canton
The charm and identity of Canton have been eroding. Between 2021 and 2022, the city lost almost 600 residents, or 1.1% of its total population.
Although Canton is well-known as the location of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, this hasn’t been enough to maintain enthusiasm.
The standard of living in the city is likewise low. It is ranked 48th out of the 50 largest cities in the United States in terms of the percentage of cheerful individuals.
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Final Words
In general, Ohio’s population is declining, with significant population losses occurring in cities like Cleveland, Youngstown, Dayton, Toledo, and Canton. Economic difficulties, job losses, urban decay, and other social issues are some of the factors that contribute to the movement.
Some areas are struggling with issues like poverty and crime, while others are becoming less desirable and are unable to attract new residents.
The overall pattern indicates that Ohio’s deteriorating communities require comprehensive rehabilitation initiatives and astute measures to address the particular issues that each one faces.