Linn, Johnson counties grew faster than state in 2000s

Growth in Linn and Johnson counties has outpaced the state's growth since 2000, according to the U.S. Census' latest estimation of population growth.

Linn County gained 17,524 people during the decade, with a current population of 209,226, a 9.1-percent growth rate. Johnson County grew 18 percent, to 131,005, while the state grew by just 2.8 percent, to 3,007,856.

“Pretty typical,” Gary Krob, coordinator of the date center at the State Library of Iowa, said of the state's growth pattern. “Lagging behind most of the other states for overall growth, but pretty consistent with what's gone on over the years.”

Iowa ranked 39th in the nation for growth rates in the first decade of the 21st century, which saw U.S. population increase by 9.1 percent, or just over 25 million, to 307 million people. Texas' 18.8-percent growth made it the nation's fastest-growing state.

Most of Iowa's growth came due to what demographers call “natural increase,” with 361,766 births offsetting 255,370 deaths. The state lost 52,205 residents to other states, but international migration netted an increase of 36,329.

The county estimates released last week are based on actual counts from the 2000 Census, updated with estimates from states' administrative records. It's the last time 2000 data will be used for such estimates, as the 2010 Census will provide the basis for the next decade.

The 2010 Census also will be used to reapportion legislative and U.S. Congress representation to distribute federal funds.

“This gives a look, but we'll have an idea after the 2010 numbers come out early winter,” Krob. As for future growth, “it's probably going to be in the places where you expect it to be.”