New Orleans, Jefferson shrinks in most recent Census update

New Census data shows New Orleans lost over 7,000 residents and Jefferson Parish lost over 8,000 residents from April of 2020 to July of 2021.

Demographer Greg Rigamer told WWL it’s part of the continuing trend of statewide population loss. According to Rigamer the state lost 27,000 people during that period.

“When we are not having population growth and we have a setback like that, it amplifies the problems that we have,” said Rigamer. “For the city to lose population over the last year, it is ominous.”

Rigamer notes that during this pre-Ida period the state and region lost population while many other states gained. Because of that it isn’t a stretch to believe that Louisiana's economy is worse off than others.

“It comes down to money, people need good jobs, everybody wants a better way of life, and the economy of Louisiana is just hurting, it is that simple,” said Rigamer.

The region’s population is likely to see further decline in the next census update, because these numbers were recorded pre-Hurricane Ida.