Emerging Trends

This section of the Plan provides an overview of the demographic, social and economic trends shaping Stearns County’s future. For example, the population and demographic trends are primary factors shaping the land use patterns of our towns and cities. The number of people, their age, and the places available to find employment, all play an important role in how we shape the future and what type of services/programs are needed to accommodate their choices. Furthermore, this report helps identify the possible changes occurring in Stearns County that may influence the Comprehensive Plan’s Five Pillars.