Discover the 4 Fastest-Shrinking Counties in Wisconsin

Wisconsin, also known as the Badger State, is a midwestern state that boasts some of the most gorgeous lakes in the country. Even though its neighboring state of Minnesota is called the Land of 10,000 Lakes, the state of Wisconsin is actually home to more than 15,000. It’s obvious that this is a state that is quite humble about its beauty. However, despite all of the beautiful lakes and dairy production, certain counties within the state have been seeing a significant population decrease. Some of these counties may surprise you, as they are considered some of the most populous in the state despite the decrease in numbers. 

So are you interested in learning more about Wisconsin and which counties have been struggling to keep up their population numbers? Then check out our list of the four fastest-shrinking counties in Wisconsin. These counties have been seeing a population decrease for a variety of reasons. We’ll go into what some of those reasons may be and more.

1. Milwaukee County

Milwaukee County is considered both the most populous and the most densely populated county in the state of Wisconsin. However, in recent years, the population has begun to see a noticeable decline. At the 2020 census, the population was 939,489, down from 947,735 in 2010. This decline only continued into 2022, when the population stood at 918,661. In fact, the county’s largest drop in population was between 2020 and 2021 when the number of residents fell by 1.1%. 

So what has been causing this decline? Experts aren’t completely sure, however, the decline is likely the result of falling birth rates over the past decade. It is estimated that in the 1990s, according to birth certificate records, 117,000 babies were born to Milwaukee mothers. However, this has quickly declined to only 98,000 babies being born in the 2010s. Since Milwaukee County houses the city of Milwaukee, it is definitely a shocking decline. Milwaukee is the most culturally and ethnically diverse city in the state. It offers residents many wonderful shopping centers, restaurants, and unique attractions.

2. Racine County

Located in southeastern Wisconsin is Racine County. This county is home to several different cities and towns such as Racine, Burlington, Mount Pleasant, and Caledonia. The county has long been known for its agricultural economy, and it is even home to the Horlicks malt factory. This factory is where the malted milk ball was first invented! It also offers residents and non-residents the opportunity to learn at some great educational institutions such as the University of Wisconsin-Parkside. 

However, the population here has been going through a slight decline after experiencing its largest increase between 2019 and 2020. In fact, the largest decrease in the population occurred right after this increase between 2020 and 2021 where it dipped by 0.3%. In 2022, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population was found to be 195,846. This spelled out another decline from 2020 and 2021.

3. Kenosha County

In the southeastern corner of the state is Kenosha County. This county is the eighth-most populous county in Wisconsin. This is thanks to the city of Kenosha, which happens to be the fourth-largest in the state. Kenosha County is a popular area for Wisconsinites to live thanks to the direct rail connection to Chicago. This direct link allows residents to commute to and from work with ease. This also grants Kenosha County residents access to more jobs. 

As a result, Kenosha County saw its largest population increase between 2018 and 2019. During this year, the population grew by 0.4% However, this consistent uptick in the population quickly came to an end when the population saw its biggest decrease between 2019 and 2020. During this year, the population declined by 0.4%. In 2022, the population was recorded to be 167,817, noting another decrease from 2021. 

Those that continue to live in Kenosha County, particularly in the city of Kenosha, know how much this area has to offer. As it is situated on Lake Michigan, many residents and out-of-town visitors enjoy taking part in outdoor recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, and more.

4. Sheboygan County

Sheboygan County is an incredibly unique area of Wisconsin, located on the western shores of Lake Michigan. One of the most notable features of this county is its easy access to the lake. In fact, surfers and kiteboarders all come to this area to enjoy the fantastic waves! It has even been called the “Malibu of the Midwest.” This is thanks to the fantastic wind conditions that allow surfers to safely get in and out of the water.

Additionally, it is also home to the city of Sheboygan. This city offers residents a great cultural and artistic scene along with many outdoor activities to partake in. The idyllic beauty of the area paired with its unique culinary traditions, such as the title of “Bratwurst Capital of the World,” has made this a popular area for people to live in. However, the area has recently seen a bit of a decline in its overall population. In fact, the population in 2022 dropped to 117,841 while in 2020 the resident numbers were at 118,030. This notes a population decrease of about 0.16%. Once again, this population decline may be in part due to the falling birth rates in the state.

Summary of the 4 Fastest-Shrinking Counties in Wisconsin

Here’s a recap of four Wisconsin counties with rapidly decreasing populations that we looked at.

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