From 2003 to 2004, Macomb County\'s population increased by more than 7,000 -- the biggest numerical increase in any of the state\'s 83 counties, according to U.S. Census figures. Oakland County is second with an increase of more than 5,000 residents. Kurt Metzger, research director in the Center for Urban Studies, said the immigration of ethnic groups is one reason for the increase. He added that some Oakland County residents are moving to central Macomb County to avoid higher taxes. Meanwhile, Wayne was the only county in Michigan to lose more than 1,000 residents. But it still has the highest population of any county in the state.