The U.S. Census Bureau reported today on where the heaviest population growth in Massachusetts was concentrated last year.
The fastest-growing county in Massachusetts between July 1, 2013, and July 1, 2014, was Nantucket, whose population rose 2.7% percent over the period. Nantucket was followed by Dukes (0.96 percent), Suffolk (0.94 percent), Middlesex (0.78 percent) and Plymouth (0.67 percent).
With respect to numerical growth, Middlesex added 12,184 people over the period, more than any other county in the state. It was followed by Suffolk, which grew by 7,161 people, Essex (4,998), Norfolk (3,545) and Plymouth (3,386).
Middlesex is the most populous county in Massachusetts, with 1,570,315 residents, followed by Worcester and Essex.
This information is based on annual population estimates for each of the nation’s counties, county equivalents, metropolitan statistical areas, and micropolitan statistical areas since the 2010 Census and up to July 1, 2014. Internet tables are available showing rankings and components of population change (births, deaths, migration).
Throughout this year, on a flow basis, the Census Bureau is telling the economic side of this story through the release of statistics from its Economic Census Geographic Area Series. The economic census is conducted every five years and provides a comprehensive and detailed profile of the U.S. economy, covering millions of businesses representing more than 1,000 industries and providing unique portraits of American industries and local communities. Data on measures such as the number of establishments and employees, revenues and payroll are included. Statistics are being provided for states, counties and places, including for more than 5,000 communities not available from previous economic censuses.
