ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Census Bureau estimates say more people moved to Minnesota than moved out of the state last year.

The Pioneer Press reports that the state gained about 7,500 residents through domestic migration for the year ending July 1.

The numbers break a 15-year streak of more people leaving the state than entering it. On average the state has lost about 6,600 people annually over the past decade and a half.

But last year, the state's population grew by nearly 52,000 overall.

The numbers offer hope for employers that Minnesota's labor force could grow faster than expected.

Experts aren't sure what's spurred the new trend. Experts say Minnesota's low unemployment rate and low cost of living may have contributed to the population gains.

 

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