An analysis of the latest Census Bureau estimates show the population in the Greater New York City counties shrank faster last year than it did in the rest of the state.
In the 12-months ending last July 1, the 50 upstate counties saw a point-1-4 percent decrease in population. The decrease in the downstate region was point-3-0 percent.
The analysis by the think tank The Empire Center shows virtually all of the downstate decline occurred in New York City.
The state's net population decrease during the 12 months was more than 48,000.
Ontario County was one of only a few upstate counties showing a population increase.