The latest estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau show West Virginia was one of seven states to lose population.
According to figures released Tuesday, West Virginia lost 4,623 residents between July 2014 and July 2015. The 0.25 percent dip was the highest in the nation.
Illinois lost 22,194 residents, the most of any state. Connecticut, Maine, Mississippi, New Mexico and Vermont also lost population.
West Virginia and Maine were the only states where deaths outnumbered births. There were an estimated 21,704 deaths and 20,764 births in West Virginia during the period.
North Dakota was the fastest-growing state with a 2.2 percent increase. California remained the most populous state at 39.1 million.
North Carolina added 102,415 residents to surpass 10 million in population.
Virginia saw a gain of nearly 55,000 residents.