Most of the western United States, except the Pacific states, saw population growth during the mid-2000s. What is the best explanation for the lack of growth in the Pacific states?
Answer
A
The Pacific states are a less attractive region to live in.
B
The Pacific states have a higher cost of living than the states further inland.
C
Many people disagree with the politics and beliefs of people living in these states.
D
More people were moving to New England and the Northeast.
Explanation
A higher cost of living can make the Pacific states less affordable than states farther inland, discouraging people from moving there. This best explains why the Pacific states did not share the population growth seen across much of the rest of the West. The other choices do not provide as direct an economic explanation.
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