Growth in the Larger Region Surrounding Yellowstone National Park In the last decade and a half population growth increased considerably in the Interior West of the United States. Much of this growth has been amenity-driven, or caused by more people wanting to live near to high quality landscapes and surrounding environments with quality communities. A 25-county region including and surrounding the nation’s oldest national park – Yellowstone – grew from about 556,000 people in 1990 to over 690,000 in 2005, counting only those making the region their permanent residence. And the personal income base of the region increased from $10.8 billion in 1990 to nearly $18 billion today in 2000 inflation-adjusted dollars. More people and more income have been attracted to this region, world-renowned for its environmental qualities. Communities throughout the region are now exploring ways to maintain the unique qualities and resources of the area as more people make it their home – a difficult challenge.