Rugby’s population drops — again
Rugby’s population predictably dropped for the ninth straight year, according to the latest U.S. Census Data recently released.
And the rate of decline from year to year continues to be minimal. The latest drop was less than one percent, leaving the most current population estimate at 2,574.
However, since 2000, the city has seen its population drop 13 percent, according to estimates. The figures are just that – estimates -and until the next census, Rugby’s official population remains at 2,939.
Large cities growing
As expected, population gains occurred in the state’s largest cities. Fargo is reportedly at 93,513; Bismarck, 60,389; Grand Forks, 51,313; and Minot, 35,419. A noticeable trend is population growth in smaller communities situated near large towns. For example, the town of Lincoln, just southeast of Bismarck, saw its population grown from 1,700 to 2,700 in one year.
Communities in the northwestern sections of the state continue to see population gains associated with increased oil activity. However, a recent drop in oil drilling, may result in a change in population figures by the time the next estimate is released.
For more information about census estimates, log on to www.census.gov/popest/cities/cities.html