Population estimates for individual counties in the St. Louis MSA show a continuing pattern of population movement to less urbanized areas. In percentage terms, the counties of St. Charles, Warren and Lincoln have posted the largest population gains. It is estimated that St. Charles County increased by approximately 33 percent since 1990. Warren and Lincoln county estimates show gains of 28 percent and 26.3 percent, respectively. St. Louis County continues to grow slowly.
Births narrowly exceed losses due to deaths and out-migration.
It is estimated that the population in St. Louis County grew by 1.6 percent, or 15,800 persons, over the last ten years. With a net natural increase of 43,000 since the last census, the current population estimate indicates that the county has lost 27,200 persons to out-migration, or about 2.7 percent of the County's 1990 population base. It is estimated that the population of St. Louis City has declined by approximately 14.8 percent or 58,700 persons, since 1990. With an estimated natural increase of roughly 16,500 persons since the last census, the 1999 population estimate indicates an out-migration of approximately 75,200 persons. This loss represents approximately 18.9 percent of the City's population base of 1990.