Texas, January 28, 2026
Texas remains the fastest-growing state in the U.S., adding over 391,000 residents in 2025 despite a notable decline in international immigration. The state’s population is now approximately 31.7 million, reflecting a 1.2% increase—its slowest growth since 2021. The shift in migration trends is partially due to stricter federal policies. While urban areas like Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston continue to expand, many rural counties may experience declines. Future projections suggest Texas could reach 42.6 million by 2060, highlighting the importance of adapting to these demographic shifts.
Texas Leads Nation in Population Growth Amid Declining Immigration
Texas Population Surges Despite Changing Migration Trends
Texas has maintained its position as the fastest-growing state in the United States, adding 391,243 residents in 2025, according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau data. This brings the state’s population to 31.7 million, marking a 1.2% increase—the slowest growth rate since 2021. Despite the slowdown, Texas continues to outpace all other states in population expansion.
Decline in Immigration Contributes to Slower Growth
A significant factor in the deceleration is a sharp decline in international migration. In 2025, Texas welcomed 67,475 newcomers from abroad, a 48% decrease from the previous year when 319,569 immigrants moved to the state. This reduction is partly attributed to stricter immigration policies implemented by the federal government. State demographer Lloyd Potter noted that this trend suggests a potential moderation in Texas’s economic growth compared to historical patterns.
National Population Trends
On a national scale, the U.S. population grew by less than half a percentage point, reaching 341.8 million. The overall slowdown is largely due to a 55% drop in net international migration, which fell to 1.3 million in 2025 from 2.7 million the previous year. This decline has particularly impacted states with traditionally high immigrant populations, such as California, Florida, and New York. For instance, California experienced a net population loss of 9,500 people, primarily due to a decrease in net immigrants from 361,000 to 109,000.
Future Projections and Regional Variations
Looking ahead, the Texas Demographic Center projects that the state’s population could reach 42.6 million by 2060, driven mainly by migration trends and suburban expansion. However, this growth is expected to be uneven, with major metropolitan areas like Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio continuing to experience significant increases, while many rural counties may see population declines. Additionally, the aging population is a factor, with the 65-and-over demographic projected to constitute 22% of the state’s population by 2060.
Conclusion
While Texas remains the leader in population growth, the recent slowdown highlights the evolving dynamics of migration and demographic shifts. The state’s future growth will depend on various factors, including immigration policies, economic opportunities, and regional development patterns. Stakeholders in Austin’s business environment may consider this an opportunity to innovate, adapt, and support local initiatives that promote economic resilience and growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was Texas’s population growth in 2025?
Texas added 391,243 residents in 2025, bringing the state’s population to 31.7 million, marking a 1.2% increase—the slowest growth rate since 2021.
What caused the slowdown in Texas’s population growth?
The slowdown is primarily due to a 48% decline in international migration, with only 67,475 newcomers from abroad in 2025 compared to 319,569 the previous year. This reduction is partly attributed to stricter immigration policies implemented by the federal government.
How does Texas’s population growth compare to other states?
Despite the slowdown, Texas continues to outpace all other states in population expansion, maintaining its position as the fastest-growing state in the nation.
What are the future population projections for Texas?
The Texas Demographic Center projects that the state’s population could reach 42.6 million by 2060, driven mainly by migration trends and suburban expansion. However, this growth is expected to be uneven, with major metropolitan areas continuing to experience significant increases, while many rural counties may see population declines.
What are the implications of an aging population in Texas?
The aging population is a factor, with the 65-and-over demographic projected to constitute 22% of the state’s population by 2060. This demographic shift may impact various sectors, including healthcare, workforce dynamics, and economic development.
Key Features of Texas’s Population Growth in 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Population | 31.7 million |
| Population Increase in 2025 | 391,243 residents |
| Growth Rate | 1.2% (slowest since 2021) |
| International Migration in 2025 | 67,475 newcomers from abroad (48% decline from previous year) |
| Projected Population by 2060 | 42.6 million |
| Projected 65-and-Over Demographic by 2060 | 22% of the state’s population |
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