Megan Dayton, State Demographer: Statistics and Projections on the Populations in Minnesota
Megan Dayton is the State of Minnesota’s Demographer, and she presented some insightful information on Minnesotans. Keying off the census data, Minnesota ranks quite high compared to other states, and the nation, on several data points. Minnesota enjoys a median household income of $68,388 compared to $60,336 for the U.S. as a whole. The poverty rate of 9.5% in Minnesota is lower than the U.S, although these rates are much higher among certain populations with the state, especially black Minnesotans and American Indians. With just 5% of the population under age 65 lacking health insurance, we rank third among the states for coverage. We are also the sixth highest state for number of college-educated persons and number one in voting participation.There are 5.6 million people who call Minnesota home. Twenty percent of our population is made up of people of color. We have had a population growth of approximately 6% since the last census was taken in 2010. With many Western and Southern states experiencing much higher rates of population growth, we could lose a Congressional seat after the 2020 census is taken and redistricting occurs. Minnesota is also in the midst of an urban shift. Nearly half (38 of 87) of our counties have experienced population loss, while 83% of the state’s growth is in the 7 county metro area.
The biggest or most notable trend is the aging of our population. As the baby boomers move into retirement in massive numbers, there will be a sharp impact on our labor market. In a few short years, there will be more people aged 65 and older in Minnesota than there are children under the age of 18. This has never before happened in our state. April 1, 2020 is Census Day, and participating in the census has been dropping. This collection of data is very important as it helps ensure equal representation of the citizens and a fair distribution of resources.
Happy Fines
- Suzanne Kutina reminded members the silent auction fundraiser for FEPS closes on Wednesday, March 13th. She also shared a heartwarming story from the Legacy Dinner honoring EP teachers.
- PG Narayanan plugged the Eden Prairie Community Foundation Gala, known as EP Gives, coming up on April 27th at Bearpath. See any Foundation Board member for tickets.
- Adam Sienkowski and wife took their first vacation without baby Nolan. Parents and baby all doing very well!
- Matt Crane offered kudos to the Eden Prairie boys hockey team who played in the State tournament and lost in a well fought game to Edina.
- Craig LaCount reminded the club that spring IS on its way, as is our spring clean up day. April27 th we will clean up Flying Cloud Park. Please note this on your calendars!
Visitors
Tom Ashbaugh - Prospective Member, first visit
Andy Tan and Molly Zeller - Student Inters