Growth and Change: Utah's Constant Companion.

AuthorBateman, Mallory

Utah's population and demographics stand out in the national picture. Our young and growing workforce, emerging diverse communities, and increasing global interconnectedness combine to present opportunities for innovative collaborations.

An estimated 3.1 million people currently call Utah home. Between 2016 and 2017, Utah was the third fastest growing state in the nation behind intermountain neighbors Idaho and Nevada. Much of the growth is occurring in the greater Wasatch Front metropolitan region as well and in Utah's southwestern region, catalyzed by Washington County.

In the words of Dr. Pamela S. Perlich, "In Utah, growth and change are our constant companions." Population has grown every decade since statehood, even in times of economic downturns. Historically growth was largely fueled by high fertility rates, as births consistently exceeded deaths. People moving to and from Utah was driven by what was happening in the economy.

Over the past 20 years, the balance has shifted. Although natural increase (births minus deaths) is still a significant contributor to growth, migration is playing a larger and more stable role. Utah's relatively strong economy continues to bring new people to our state.

While Utah maintains its signature demographics, it is trending with the nation towards...

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