INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — In 2024, Indiana’s population had the largest annual increase in over 15 years. Research says the boom is driven by international immigration, mostly from people seeking asylum since the end of the pandemic.

Nearly 45,000 people moved to the Hoosier state last year. It’s the most the state has grown since 2008 and nearly 70% of that growth comes from immigrants.

Four immigrants or asylum seekers agreed to be interviewed for this story, but when it came time to mic up, they decided it wasn’t safe for them to speak out of fear for their safety.

CEO of Exodus Refugee Immigration Cole Varga says he isn’t surprised the fear is so strong.

“Well, there’s a lot of fear right now across all immigrant communities,” Varga said. “I think, rightfully so, as we’ve seen the Trump administration target folks that even have status.”

Varga says he and his team see the fears firsthand through his work at Exodus. In January, security concerns even prompted them to only offer their services virtually.

They’ve since opened their doors, but not without concern.

“It’s not been a fun couple of months for us at the agency for the staff, but I think more so, most of us feel it in the empathy for our clients and the losses they are facing.”

Indiana Business Research Center Senior Demographer Matt Kinghorn conducted the research. His work revealed growth in 73 of Indiana’s 92 counties, with much of it fueled by immigration.

He says Indiana’s immigration rates are on par with the rest of the country.

“There’s 23 counties that are designated as rural counties and 17 of the 23 rural counties grew last year, which is noteworthy,” Kinghorn said. “I think when you look at at central Indiana, one that really stands out is Madison County.”

In 15 years, Kinghorn estimates the state could have more deaths than births.

Varga is hopeful it doesn’t take that long for refugees to feel safe again in Indiana.

“I want folks to know that Exodus is here, if there are humanitarian immigrants, people with asylum, people who want to speak with an immigration attorney,” Varga said. We have intake hours and they can contact our office.”