America Counts: Stories Behind the Numbers
U.S. Population Grows at Fastest Pace in More Than Two Decades
Following historically low growth at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. population grew substantially by almost 1% since 2023, outpacing average annual growth since 2000 and signaling a significant turnaround from the meager population gains at the start of this decade.
On Thursday, the U.S. Census Bureau released July 1, 2024, population estimates for the nation and states. The U.S. population reached 340.1 million, up 0.98% from 336.8 million on July 1, 2023 — the highest year-over-year increase since a jump of 0.99% between 2000 and 2001.
Since 2000, the nation has grown by almost 58 million, with an average annual growth rate of approximately 0.8%. The most robust growth occurred between 2001 and 2008, fueled by changing migration trends and higher birth rates.
However, population trends have fluctuated over the past two decades, reflecting how major world and national events can influence population growth.
Continue reading to learn more about:
- Population trends since 2000
- The COVID-19 pandemic and recovery
- What influences population change
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