Barnsdall: A City on the Decline

2024 Population Projections Paint a Bleak Future

Once a Thriving Community, Barnsdall Now Faces a Slow and Steady Decline

WEB Barnsdall, a city located in Osage County, Oklahoma, is facing a grim future. According to recent estimates, the city's population is projected to decline by -0.79% annually over the next few years, reaching a mere 999 in 2024. This decline is a continuation of a trend that has seen Barnsdall lose 0.98% of its population since 2022.

The population decline is particularly concerning given the city's small size. With an area of just 1 square mile, Barnsdall has a population density of 10,359 people per square mile. This overcrowding contributes to a variety of challenges, including increased crime, poverty, and unemployment.

In 2021, Barnsdall had a population of 1,010 people, with a median age of 34.5 and a median household income of $52,625. However, these numbers have been declining steadily over the past few years. The loss of population and wealth has had a devastating impact on the city's economy and quality of life.

The reasons for Barnsdall's decline are complex and multifaceted. However, the most significant factor is likely the lack of economic opportunity. The city's once-booming oil and gas industry has declined in recent years, leading to a loss of jobs and a decrease in population.

Other factors contributing to Barnsdall's decline include high crime rates, poor education, and a lack of affordable housing. These problems have created a vicious cycle that has made it difficult for the city to attract new residents and businesses.

As Barnsdall's population continues to decline, the city faces an uncertain future. The challenges it faces are daunting, but there is still hope for a brighter tomorrow. By working together, the city's residents and leaders can identify and address the factors that are leading to the decline and create a more sustainable and prosperous future for Barnsdall.