Immigration slump drags US population growth to pandemic-era lows

US population growth slowed to its weakest pace since the Covid-19 era as net international migration plunged by more than 50% in 2024-25, leaving the population at about 342 million after a 1.8 million increase. County data show most areas slowed or posted losses (roughly 40% of counties experienced net outflows); large cities that rely on international arrivals are seeing growth stall amid affordability-driven domestic outmigration, with New York City’s international inflows down sharply while domestic migration rose. Growth is strongest in some southern counties near Dallas and Houston. Economists warn the immigration drop could have lasting economic costs, potentially reducing consumer spending and GDP growth as immigrant inflows support the labor force and entrepreneurship.