Data: Young People Leaving Idaho

The latest driver’s license data suggests more 20-somethings are leaving Idaho than ever before. The net loss of Idahoans aged 21-30 last year was 149. The data show 11,530 young people moved to Idaho from other states in 2012, while 11,679 left. The Idaho Department of Labor is keeping an eye on this unsettling trend; young people are leaving the state in search of higher-paying jobs while retirees from out-of-state are moving in faster than ever. The shift will have a “profound impact” on Idaho’s economy and workforce says Idaho Department of Labor researcher Bob Uhlenkott/ Emilie Ritter Saunders , StateImpact. More here.

• Idaho seeing more older residents, lower wages /Betsy Russell, Eye on Boise

Question: The net loss of 21-30YOs in Idaho last year was only 149. Is that cause for concern?