Over the last decade, certain states have seen their populations skyrocket, transforming their landscapes and economies.
The total population residing in the United States (including all 50 states and Washington D.C.) reached 331,449,281 in 2020, marking a notable 7.4% increase from the 2010 census.1
Is your home state one of these rapidly growing hotspots?
Data is based on the most recent U.S. census in 2020 that offers a snapshot of population trends over the previous decade. The next census will be in 2030.
West Virginia
2010-2020 Population Change: -3.20%
The population of West Virginia decreased by 3.20% from 2010 to 2020. This decline is part of a larger trend of population loss in the state, which has been ongoing since the 1950s due to factors such as the decline of the coal industry and out-migration to other states.
Mississippi
2010-2020 Population Change: -0.20%
Mississippi experienced a slight population decrease of 0.20% from 2010 to 2020. While the state saw some growth in the early 2010s, it has faced challenges in recent years, including out-migration and a slow economic recovery.
Illinois
2010-2020 Population Change: -0.14%
The population of Illinois decreased by 0.14% between 2010 and 2020. This marks the first time the state has lost population since the 1970 census. Factors contributing to this decline include out-migration to other states, particularly those with lower taxes and warmer climates.
Connecticut
2010-2020 Population Change: 0.89%
Connecticut’s population grew by 0.89% from 2010 to 2020. This modest growth can be attributed to factors such as immigration and a relatively stable economy. However, the state also faces challenges such as an aging population and high cost of living.
Michigan
2010-2020 Population Change: 1.96%
Michigan experienced a population increase of 1.96% from 2010 to 2020. This growth can be attributed to factors such as a rebounding auto industry and in-migration from other states. However, the state still faces challenges such as urban decline and population loss in some rural areas.
Ohio
2010-2020 Population Change: -2.28%
Once a major player in the American Midwest, Ohio has seen its influence wane in recent decades, as evidenced by a gradual decrease in its share of the nation’s population. Starting at a strong 4.7% in 1970, Ohio’s portion of the U.S. population slid to 3.9% by 2020.
Wyoming
2010-2020 Population Change: 2.35%
Wyoming’s population share in the U.S. remained relatively stable, increasing from 0.3% in 1970 to 0.4% in 2020, indicating a steady growth in its relative population size over the decades.
Pennsylvania
2010-2020 Population Change: -2.36%
This decrease indicates that while the state’s population may still be growing, other states are experiencing much more rapid growth, causing Pennsylvania to fall behind in relative population size.
Maine
2010-2020 Population Change: -2.56%
Once accounting for 1.1% of the nation’s residents in 1970, Maine’s share has dwindled to just 0.9% as of 2020, highlighting a steady decrease in the state’s relative population size when compared to the rest of the country.
Louisiana
2010-2020 Population Change: 2.74%
Starting at 2.5% in 1970, Louisiana’s portion of the nation’s residents has risen to a solid 2.9% in 2020, highlighting a steady increase in the state’s relative population size over the past five decades.
Vermont
2010-2020 Population Change: 2.77%
Vermont has steadily grown in relative population size, increasing from 0.2% of the U.S. population in 1970 to a slightly larger 0.3% in 2020. While its population growth may not be as dramatic as other states, Vermont has managed to maintain a steady increase in its share of the nation’s residents.
Missouri
2010-2020 Population Change: 2.77%
Missouri experienced a modest population growth of 2.77% between 2010 and 2020, which was slightly below the national average. This growth suggests a slow and steady increase in residents over the decade.
New Mexico
2010-2020 Population Change: 2.83%
New Mexico’s population grew by 2.83% during the same period, a rate similar to Missouri but with a slightly higher increase. This growth may indicate a consistent influx of new residents, potentially driven by factors like job opportunities or quality of life.
Kansas
2010-2020 Population Change: 2.97%
This is a slightly higher population growth of 2.97%, suggesting a moderate increase in the number of residents. This growth could be attributed to various factors, including economic development and urban expansion.
Alaska
2010-2020 Population Change: 3.26%
Alaska experienced a notable population growth of 3.26%, surpassing the national average and the other states listed. This growth might be due to factors such as a strong economy, job opportunities in industries like oil and gas, or the state’s natural beauty attracting new residents.
Arkansas
2010-2020 Population Change: 3.28%
This growth is likely fueled by a combination of factors, such as economic opportunities, lower housing costs, and an influx of retirees seeking the state’s affordable living.
Wisconsin
2010-2020 Population Change: 3.64%
The Badger State saw a modest increase in its population, growing by 3.64% over the decade. This growth rate indicates a steady, but not excessive, influx of new residents.
Kentucky
2010-2020 Population Change: 3.84%
Kentucky experienced a slightly higher population growth than Wisconsin, with a 3.84% increase. This suggests a similar pattern of moderate growth, possibly due to factors like in-migration and natural increase.
New York
2010-2020 Population Change: 4.25%
The Empire State’s population grew by 4.25%, indicating a faster pace of growth compared to Wisconsin and Kentucky. This could be attributed to factors like economic opportunities and the state’s diverse urban centers.
Rhode Island
2010-2020 Population Change: 4.26%
The population growth closely mirrored that of New York, with a 4.26% increase. Despite being the smallest state by area, Rhode Island saw a major influx of new residents during this period.
New Hampshire
2010-2020 Population Change: 4.64%
The state experienced a population growth, which suggests a strong appeal to new residents, potentially due to factors like a favorable business climate and attractive natural landscapes.
Indiana
2010-2020 Population Change: 4.65%
This sizable increase may be attributed to several factors, including the influx of people relocating to Indiana from other states, as well as the natural increase of the population due to a higher number of births than deaths.
Iowa
2010-2020 Population Change: 4.73%
Iowa saw its population grow by an impressive 4.73%, slightly higher than that of Indiana. This notable population increase suggests that Iowa is becoming increasingly appealing to newcomers, perhaps due to a variety of factors such as promising job opportunities, a high quality of life, and affordable housing.
Alabama
2010-2020 Population Change: 5.12%
The Heart of Dixie, known for its Southern charm and deep historical roots, has been experiencing a surge in population growth over the past decade. From 2010 to 2020, Alabama saw a robust population increase, outpacing both Indiana and Iowa in terms of rate of growth.
Oklahoma
2010-2020 Population Change: 5.54%
Oklahoma saw a significant population increase of 5.54%, suggesting that the state is becoming increasingly attractive to new residents. This growth could be driven by factors like a booming energy sector and affordable housing.
New Jersey
2010-2020 Population Change: 5.65%
New Jersey experienced a rapid increase in population growth. This could be due to its proximity to major metropolitan areas like New York City and Philadelphia, as well as its diverse economy and cultural attractions.
California
2010-2020 Population Change: 6.13%
California, the most populous state in the US, saw a 6.13% increase in population from 2010 to 2020. This growth is attributed to its diverse economy, mild climate, and cultural attractions.
Hawaii
2010-2020 Population Change: 6.98%
The Aloha State has been experiencing a surge in population growth. This rapid increase in population can be attributed to a variety of factors, including the state’s thriving tourism industry, which draws in visitors from all over the world, as well as its desirable lifestyle.
Maryland
2010-2020 Population Change: 6.99%
Maryland, with its proximity to Washington D.C. and diverse job market, saw a population growth suggesting that the state is attracting new residents due to its economic opportunities and quality of life.
Massachusetts
2010-2020 Population Change: 7.37%
Massachusetts, home to prestigious universities and a thriving tech industry, experienced a population increase likely due to its strong economy and educational institutions.
Nebraska
2010-2020 Population Change: 7.40%
Nebraska, known for its agricultural industry and friendly communities, saw a population growth that could be attributed to factors like affordable housing and a growing job market.
Minnesota
2010-2020 Population Change: 7.59%
The Land of 10,000 Lakes experienced an impressive population growth likely attributed to its high quality of life, with factors like an abundance of outdoor recreational activities, a thriving job market, and a low crime rate all contributing to the state’s appeal.
Virginia
2010-2020 Population Change: 7.88%
Virginia, the birthplace of presidents, has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, experiencing a 7.88% population increase from 2010 to 2020. This growth can be partially attributed to the state’s prime location near Washington D.C., which offers ample job opportunities and cultural attractions.
Tennessee
2010-2020 Population Change: 8.90%
Tennessee has been on the rise with an impressive 8.90% increase from 2010 to 2020. This substantial growth can be attributed to various factors, including Tennessee’s low cost of living, making it an affordable place to settle down and raise a family.
South Dakota
2010-2020 Population Change: 8.90%
With a solid 8.90% population increase, South Dakota has been experiencing a steady rise in its population, thanks in part to its low cost of living and a diverse economy that has expanded beyond traditional agriculture into sectors like healthcare and finance.
North Carolina
2010-2020 Population Change: 9.48%
This population growth is attributed to the state’s diverse job market, particularly in the research triangle area, and its pleasant climate, which draws many retirees to the state.
Montana
2010-2020 Population Change: 9.58%
The Big Sky State’s stunning landscapes and outdoor recreation have drawn in many nature enthusiasts, while its economic growth in areas like healthcare, tourism, and manufacturing has also contributed to its growing population.
Delaware
2010-2020 Population Change: 10.25%
Despite being one of the smallest states in the country, Delaware experienced an impressive 10.25% population increase from 2010 to 2020.
Georgia
2010-2020 Population Change: 10.57%
Georgia experienced a robust 10.57% population growth in the past decade, driven by its strong economy, particularly in industries like technology, film, and healthcare.
Oregon
2010-2020 Population Change: 10.60%
The Pacific Northwest gem witnessed a population growth, largely due to its booming tech sector, particularly in the Portland metropolitan area, as well as its picturesque landscapes and progressive policies that have attracted newcomers from across the country.
South Carolina
2010-2020 Population Change: 10.66%
With a significant 10.66% population increase, the Palmetto State has been experiencing a healthy growth in population, fueled by a mix of factors such as a low cost of living, a flourishing tourism industry, and an expanding job market that draws in both domestic and international residents.
Arizona
2010-2020 Population Change: 11.88%
The Grand Canyon State experienced a robust 11.88% population growth from 2010 to 2020, largely driven by the sunny weather, booming tech sector, and affordable housing market.
Florida
2010-2020 Population Change: 14.56%
The state experienced an incredible population growth, solidifying its position as one of the fastest-growing states in the country. Retirees seeking warm weather and tax benefits, as well as job seekers lured by the state’s diverse economy, contributed to this significant increase.
Washington
2010-2020 Population Change: 14.58%
Washington witnessed a significant 14.58% population growth, largely driven by the booming tech industry, particularly in the Seattle metropolitan area, and the state’s natural beauty and progressive policies.
Colorado
2010-2020 Population Change: 14.80%
Experiencing an impressive 14.80% population increase in the last decade, the growth is fueled by the state’s robust job market, particularly in sectors like aerospace and technology, and its desirable quality of life with access to outdoor activities and cultural attractions.
Nevada
2010-2020 Population Change: 14.96%
The Silver State saw a remarkable 14.96% population increase, largely due to its thriving tourism industry, particularly in Las Vegas, and a business-friendly tax structure that has attracted many new residents and companies.
North Dakota
2010-2020 Population Change: 15.83%
Known for its vast prairies and agricultural economy, North Dakota witnessed a remarkable population increase over the last decade, largely due to the state’s booming oil and gas industry, which has created numerous job opportunities and attracted many newcomers to the area.
Texas
2010-2020 Population Change: 15.91%
The Lone Star State had a 15.91% population growth in the last decade because of its diverse economy, with industries like energy, technology, healthcare, and finance, as well as its attractive business environment and growing job market.
Idaho
2010-2020 Population Change: 17.32%
Idaho has emerged as one of the fastest-growing states in the country, with a substantial 17.32% population increase. Factors contributing to Idaho’s growth include its stunning natural scenery, affordable cost of living, and strong job market. In addition, many people have been drawn to the state’s libertarian-leaning politics and overall high quality of life.
Utah
2010-2020 Population Change: 18.37%
Dubbed the Beehive State, the state buzzed its way to the top of the population charts, emerging as the fastest-growing state in the US between 2010 and 2020. This meteoric rise comes as no surprise to Utah natives.
Whether your state made the list of fastest-growing or not, the data from the 2020 census offers a glimpse into the ever-shifting demographics of America. As we look forward to the 2030 census, it will be interesting to see how these trends continue to change and shape the future of our nation.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.