Census Bureau Estimates Fastest Growing NH Counties

The U.S. Census Bureau reported on where the heaviest population growth in New Hampshire was concentrated last year.

The fastest-growing county in New Hampshire between July 1, 2013, and July 1, 2014, was Strafford, where population rose 0.77 percent over the period. Strafford was followed by Rockingham (0.62 percent), Hillsborough (0.44 percent), Sullivan (0.27 percent) and Belknap (0.17 percent).

With respect to numerical growth, Rockingham added 1,876 people over the period, more than any other county in the state. It was followed by Hillsborough, which grew by 1,786 people, Strafford (962), Sullivan (117) and Belknap (104). Hillsborough is the most populous county in the state, with 405,184 residents, followed by Rockingham and Merrimack.

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.