A closer look at Wisconsin's population loss: Polk County

Logging is what jump-started Polk County's growth.  In a pattern similar to other northern Wisconsin counties, its population grew steadily into the early 20th century, peaking a first time at 26,870 in the 1920 census.  It would be another nearly 60 years before the county exceeded its 1920 population.  Growth continued into the first decade of the 21st century, but since the 2010 census, the county has lost an estimated 764 residents, or just under 2% of its population.

Source:  Wikipedia + U.S. Census Bureau (2015)

Source:  U.S. Census Bureau

As of July 1, 2014, 18.5% of Polk County's population is 65 and over, significantly above the state average of 15.2%.   Its 0-to-4 demographic is 5.1% compared to Wisconsin's 5.9%.  

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