One Illinois county in the greater St. Louis area is losing so many residents it ranks No. 5 nationwide for population loss. Its neighboring county was one of the few in Illinois to grow.

New Census data reveal that for the first time on record, all 10 metro areas based primarily in Illinois experienced population decline.

A vinyl graphics business in southwestern Illinois wasn’t planning to downsize. But the state’s $15 minimum wage hike has forced the owners to cut six jobs.

The owner of a growing book printing company faces a greater threat from out-of-state competitors thanks to lawmakers in his home state. Calls for a $15 minimum wage and progressive tax could hurt his workers and business in southern Illinois.

As Illinois struggles to address its people problem, population loss has plagued communities across the Land of Lincoln. But the shrinkage in some areas has been more severe than others.