County’s overall population grew faster than state, national rates
Allen County continues to outpace both state and national trends with sustained positive net migration in 2024. According to data released Thursday by the U.S. Census Bureau, the county’s population grew by 4,750 residents (1.2%) over the past year, exceeding the state growth rate of 0.9% and the national rate of 1.0%. As a result, Allen County’s population now stands at 399,295 residents.
“Allen County’s positive net migration for the eighth consecutive year reflects the strength of our community and the impact of ongoing quality-of-life projects,“ said John Urbahns, President and CEO of Greater Fort Wayne Inc. “People are choosing to live, work, and thrive here because of our vibrant neighborhoods, growing job opportunities, and world-class amenities. We are proud to see more individuals and families recognizing what makes Allen County special.”
Population growth includes natural population change (births minus deaths), domestic migration, and international migration. Net domestic migration measures how many people moved in from other U.S. locales, minus how many moved away to other U.S. communities. Domestic migration rebounded with a 583% increase over 2023, marking Allen County’s eighth consecutive year of positive growth in 2024.
In Indiana, international immigration remained the primary driver of population growth in 2024. In Allen County, however, natural change, where births outpaced deaths, played a significant role, accounting for 20% of the state’s overall increase. According to a U.S. Census Bureau analysis, one-third of counties nationwide experienced a natural change decrease, with deaths exceeding births. Allen County recorded the second-highest natural change increase in Indiana, trailing only Marion County and surpassing Hamilton County. Meanwhile, international immigration remained strong, with Allen County ranking fourth in the state.
“Working together matters, and we’re seeing positive results by being partners in the public and private sectors to attract individuals and families to our community,” said Fort Wayne Mayor Sharon Tucker. “Population growth is an important indicator that we value people and want them to reach their full potential. We’re headed in the right direction to provide opportunities for ongoing success that equates to an enhanced quality of life for all.”
Overall, Fort Wayne is in the top 4 metro areas in the Midwest for post-pandemic population growth, behind only Indianapolis, Columbus, and Madison, making Fort Wayne the only non-state capital in the top four.
Within the 11-county Northeast Indiana region, 70% of new residents last year resided in Allen County. Additionally, surrounding counties DeKalb, Huntington, Noble, Wells, and Whitley once again experienced positive domestic migration.
“We are pleased to see Allen County continue to grow in population. As a community, we have all worked very hard to be a place where people want to raise a family, start a business, and invest their time and money. Our continued growth is a result of every sector in Allen County – public, private, and non-profit – serving with excellence. To our new friends and neighbors who chose to call Allen County home in 2024, “Welcome!” To the over 395,000 who were already here, “Thank you!” These increased population estimates are a testament to your hard work, friendliness, and dedication to our community,” shared Commissioners Rich Beck, Therese Brown, and Ron Turpin in a joint statement.
