The U.S. population grew by just 0.74% last year, well below the 1.2% average during the 1990s and the lowest since 1937. Although some parts of the U.S. grew more than others — namely the South and West — the economy has taken its toll nationwide. “We’re still stuck in the aftermath of the recession,” says Frey, “leading to diminished immigration, low fertility, and below-normal movement across state lines to prosperous areas.”

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