Michigan experienced its first population loss between 2005 and 20061 since the early 1980s,
when the economic recession led to population declines between 1980 and 1983. The primary reason for this loss was the large outmigration (over 65,000) of residents looking for jobs, in addition to the usual retirement movers and recent college graduates (detailed historical tables appear later). In spite of the loss, Michigan held its 8th place ranking though Georgia closed its 9th place gap by over 230,000 persons.

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