As rural areas lose population, some suggest ways to attract residents

As Illinois continues to lose population, especially in rural areas, smaller communities are exploring ways to attract new residents.  According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 81 of Illinois’ 102 counties lost population in 2021, with a vast majority of them in rural areas. Norman Walzer, professor of economics at Western Illinois University, says smaller communities should market themselves to Illinois families.

Ben Winchester, a rural sociologist, said during a recent University of Illinois webinar that a recent survey showed a surprisingly low number of people who moved to a small town weren’t born there.

Winchester said small communities in a region should come together and coordinate economic and community development plans to attract and retain residents to their region.

Story from Illinois Radio Network