I’m sure you’ve heard the humorous saying regarding our fair state that goes something like this: “I wasn’t born in Texas, but I got here as soon as I could.”
There may be more truth than fiction in the statement. A recent report released by the US Census Bureau reveals that the Lone Star State was the nation’s leader in population gain over the 12-month period ending in July 2006.
According to the Census Bureau estimates, Texas added some 579,275 people during that timeframe, which was more than any other state. Florida was second with a gain of 321,697, followed by California with 303,402 new residents. As expected, Louisiana’s population declined by nearly 220,000 during that period; much of it because of the relocation of hurricane victims.
California remains the most populous state with 36.5 million residents. Texas is second with 23.5 million; followed by New York, 19.3 million; Florida, 18.1 million; and Illinois, 12.8 million. In terms of percent change from July 2005 to July 2006, Texas’ population expanded some 2.5%, making it the nation’s 5th fastest growing state, behind Arizona, Nevada, Idaho, and Georgia.
In addition, the Census Bureau report notes that since 2000, Texas has added 2.7 million people, compared to a 2.6 million increase in California. This growth reflects a 12.7% gain in residents in Texas, compared with California’s 8.0%.
Most of the population growth in Texas over the past several years has been in the metropolitan areas. Currently, some eight out of 10 Texans reside in the state’s metros.
The Census Bureau also noted that about 20% of Texas cities are among the top 100 fastest growing cities with populations of at least 100,000. Three—Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas—are among the top 10 largest cities in the US. Nine other cities rank among the nation’s top 100 cities in total residents—Austin, Fort Worth, El Paso, Arlington, Corpus Christi, Plano, Garland, Laredo, and Lubbock.
Much of this growth stems directly from the state’s strong economic performance. Over the past several years, Texas has attracted more major corporate expansions/relocations than any other state. The opportunities represented by this economic development have encouraged many to move to the Lone Star State.
At the same time, the population growth, particularly the gains in suburban areas, is stimulating the state’s economy, creating numerous construction opportunities such as new hospitals, churches, restaurants, shopping centers, recreational facilities, and schools. It has also necessitated the expansion of emergency and enforcement agencies and other public services. Just two months ago, Texas voters approved more than 100 school bond referendums.
Over the past several years, population expansion has been a trend prevalent not only in Texas, but also in many other areas of the South and West. Forecasts related to resident growth do not indicate a slowing of this momentum in the years ahead.
When the last census was taken, Texas had about 7.42% of the US population. The recent report indicates that some 7.85% of the nation lives in Texas. When the next census is taken in 2010, Texas is projected to have approximately 8.07% of the total number of people in the US.
With this growth will come additional diverse economic opportunities and unique challenges. Of course, preparation for the future must be ongoing to meet the needs of the state’s residents tomorrow. It’s a tall chore, but one that Texans are definitely capable of achieving.