Georgia Population Growth 4th Largest in Country
According to the U. S. Census estimates for the period July 1, 2005 to July 1, 2006, Georgia’s population was the fourth fastest growing in the nation in terms of both percentage and numbers. For the period, Georgia added 231,388 residents which was a 2.5% increase. During this period, Georgia led all Sun Belt states, including Florida, in terms of percentage increase. Analysts indicated that part of Georgia’s growth reflects a national trend of migration from the Northeast and Midwest to Sun Belt states.
According to Judy Hadley, statistical research analyst for the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget, some of the growth came from Katrina migrants. However, “other people migrate to Georgia to retire, particularly around the mountains and lakes in the northern part of the state, and that many young professionals move to the metro Atlanta area for work opportunities.”
William Frey, a demographer at the Brookings Institution, said “Americans are attracted to the South because of housing affordability and good climate.” “Within the South, people are also migrating to more affordable areas such as Georgia from more expensive areas such as Virginia.” Finally, he says “Georgia is experiencing a continued trend of African-Americans flocking to the state.”
The latest population estimates place Georgia as the country’s ninth most populous state.
Source: Atlanta Journal-Constitution, December 22, 2006, by Eunice Moscoso