ORLANDO, Fla. — Florida’s population crossed the 23 million residents mark for the first time this year because of the influx of people moving from other states, according to state demographic estimates.
As of April 1 of this year, Florida had 23,002,597 residents, according to estimates released earlier this month by the state Demographic Estimating Conference.
Florida is the third most populous state in the U.S., trailing only California’s 39.5 million residents and Texas’ 30.5 million inhabitants.
Florida added almost 359,000 people last year and has been adding about 350,000 to 375,000 people each year this decade, according to the estimates.
The population growth is expected to peak this year and get smaller with each following year for the rest of the 2020s as the final cohort of baby boomers entering retirement gets smaller, according to the estimates.
By the early 2030s, Florida’s growth rate will be under 1% after hitting an expected 1.6% this year.
Since a little bit before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, all of Florida’s growth has come from people moving to the Sunshine State from other parts of the United States or abroad. Deaths have outpaced births in Florida since late 2019 and early 2020, and that trend is predicted to continue well into the next decade.
Almost 10% of Florida’s residents are age 75 and older, second only to Puerto Rico among U.S. states and the territory.
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Florida’s population has reached a record-breaking 23 million residents, making it the third most populous state in the United States. This milestone comes as no surprise to many, as Florida has long been a popular destination for retirees, snowbirds, and young professionals alike.
The Sunshine State’s population growth can be attributed to a number of factors. One of the main drivers of this growth is migration from other states, particularly from the Northeast and Midwest. Many people are drawn to Florida’s warm climate, beautiful beaches, and lower cost of living compared to other parts of the country. Additionally, Florida’s strong job market and booming economy have also attracted many new residents in recent years.
Another contributing factor to Florida’s population growth is its high birth rate. The state has a large number of young families, which has led to a natural increase in population over the years. In fact, Florida has one of the highest birth rates in the country, with an average of over 200,000 births per year.
With a growing population comes a number of challenges for the state. One of the main concerns is ensuring that there is enough infrastructure to support this influx of residents. This includes building new schools, roads, and healthcare facilities to accommodate the growing population. Additionally, there is also a need for affordable housing to ensure that all residents have access to safe and stable living arrangements.
Despite these challenges, Florida’s population growth is a testament to the state’s appeal and desirability as a place to live. With its diverse population, vibrant culture, and endless recreational opportunities, it’s no wonder that so many people are choosing to call Florida home. As the state continues to grow and evolve, it will be interesting to see how it adapts to meet the needs of its ever-expanding population.
