ECONOMY

Census: Growth Slows, Major Metros Diverge Nationally

PUBLISHED Mar 26, 2026, 2:22 AM ET

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Census: Growth Slows, Major Metros Diverge Nationally

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 7

Center 71%

Right 29%

Sources: 7

United States census estimates show national population growth slowed to 0.5% between July 1, 2024 and July 1, 2025, with the Census Bureau reporting reduced international migration and mixed metro outcomes: some smaller and Sun Belt metros grew while Los Angeles, San Diego and Miami declined this year. Local jurisdictions this week reported varied impacts: Greenville metro surpassed one million residents, Des Moines and Baldwin counties recorded continued gains, and border cities such as Yuma and El Centro saw sharp slowdowns; officials and demographers say planning and services must adjust to these shifting population patterns.

By Sidra | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

2020: Decennial Census established baseline counts for metropolitan and county populations.
2023–2024: Prior-year growth peaked in many Sun Belt and border regions driven by migration.
July 1, 2025: Census Vintage 2025 measures population for July 1, 2024–July 1, 2025 and is released.
August 2025: National growth recorded at 0.5% (1.78 million), down from 1.0% the prior year; several large metros show declines.
Post-release: Local reports highlight Greenville surpassing one million, Des Moines and Baldwin County growth, and border-city slowdowns.

News Intelligence

Population shifts affect your community. They can change school sizes, property values, and local services. If you're in a growing area like Greenville or Des Moines, expect more neighbors. In places like Yuma or El Centro, prepare for slower growth. Check your city's census data to stay informed.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 7
Right Leaning:: 2
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 5

Who Benefited

Sun Belt and Midwest metros, local developers, and some employers benefit from population gains via increased consumer demand, housing demand, and expanded tax bases that support local services and investment.

Who Impacted

Large coastal metros and certain border communities facing immigration declines and out-migration experienced shrinking populations that may reduce labor supply, consumer demand, and fiscal revenue, complicating planning and service provision.

Media Bias