06/23/2026
People move every day for school, work, retirement and family, bringing new perspectives that shape communities. From 2020 to 2025, net migration grew the average U.S. county population by 2.5 percent.
In Missouri, counties gained an average of 2.1 percent of their population from net migration during that same period. Nonmetro counties saw larger gains, 2.8 percent compared to 1.8 percent in metro areas. Some counties, including Lincoln, Hickory, Benton and Ozark, saw especially large increases.
While all residents value community ties and health care access, newer residents place more emphasis on broadband access, arts and outdoor recreation. Understanding these differences can help communities plan for growth and better meet changing needs.