News

July 27, 2007

Raleigh Projected To Be One Of The 50 Largest Cities In The Country

Raleigh has surpassed Wichita, Kan., to become the 50^th largest city in the country, according to population estimates prepared by the City of Raleigh Planning Department’s Growth Management Division.

Raleigh’s estimated population as of July 1 is 367,995, an increase of 8,663 persons since Jan. 1 when the city’s population was estimated to be 359,332.  The city’s population increased by 4.07 percent from July 1, 2006 to July 1, 2007.  Raleigh is now the ninth largest city in the South behind Jacksonville, Memphis, Charlotte, Louisville, Nashville, Atlanta, Virginia Beach and Miami. Estimates are based on the number of dwellings, the average number of people per dwelling, and the dwelling occupancy/vacancy averages.

In 2006, Raleigh passed Tampa, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh; and St. Louis to become the 51^st largest city in the nation,” said City of Raleigh Planning Director Mitchell Silver. “If our growth rate continues, we project that Raleigh will pass Arlington, Texas, Minneapolis and Colorado Springs, Colo., next year.”

Mr. Silver said a strong local economy, housing prices, quality schools and “numerous other amenities” have sustained the population growth in Raleigh.

“Raleigh continues to be one of the fastest growing cities in the United States,” he said. “The rank of 50^th largest city in the country is based on the Department of Planning’s projections.  The U.S. Census Bureau’s estimates lag one year behind local estimates.  However, I am optimistic the U.S. Census Bureau will confirm Raleigh’s 50th ranking when it releases its 2007 population in June 2008.”

Prepared by:
John Boyette
Public Affairs Specialist
Public Affairs Department

For More Information Contact:
Mitchell Silver
Director
Planning Department
One Exchange Plaza, Suite 304
Raleigh, NC 27602
919-516-2626

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