Census data show slower population gains in US metros as immigration declines
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- Population growth rates in U.S. metro areas slowed significantly in 2025, with the steepest declines along the Mexico border due to decreased immigration and in Florida’s Gulf Coast counties following destructive hurricanes.
- The average metro growth rate dropped from 1.1% in 2024 to 0.6% in 2025, reflecting the impact of immigration restrictions and natural disasters amid an aging population and declining birth rates.
- Border metro areas like Laredo, Yuma, and El Centro saw sharp population growth declines, some turning negative, highlighting the critical role of immigration in these regions.
- Florida’s Gulf Coast counties, including Pinellas and rural Taylor County, experienced significant population losses due to hurricanes Helene and Milton, with recovery prospects varying between urban and rural areas.
- Despite overall slower growth, Sunbelt metros such as Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, Atlanta, Phoenix, and Charlotte remained growth leaders, while natural increase (births minus deaths) helped sustain population gains in areas like New York, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Houston.
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