While Jacksonville's population is growing, all three Beaches cities are losing residents, the most recent U.S. Census estimates show. Experts blame it on the housing slump and high housing costs.

Growth in Florida is usually tied to net migration, which means more people move into than out of an area. From 2000 to 2006, newcomers made up about 89 percent of Florida's population increase, according to the Florida Legislature's Office of Economic and Demographic Research.

But the housing sales slump is discouraging migration to Florida, bringing the state's growth rate to levels not seen since the mid-1970s.

"The slowdown is widespread throughout Florida," said Stanley Smith, program director at the University of Florida's Bureau of Economic and Business Research. "It's related primarily to the housing market, as well as the general economic conditions in the country."

Florida saw a similar growth decline in the mid-1970s, when the country experienced an oil crisis and a stagnant economy, Smith said. The University of Florida's 2008 estimate is expected to be released in August. But preliminary data based on building permits and utility customer bills show that net migration numbers will be substantially less than previous years.

"It's looking pretty grim right now," Smith said.

Census: All 3 Beaches cities losing residents - Shorelines.com - April 3, 2008