The Hispanic population in Virginia has grown nearly 36 percent since 2000, according to U.S. Census population estimates released today.
These estimates indicate the number of minorities, especially Hispanics, continue to grow around the country, with local growth outpacing growth nationally.
In 2000, the Census estimated there were 333,511 Hispanics living in Virginia. For 2005, the bureau estimated 452,511 Hispanics in the Commonwealth.
Justin Clark, a research and analysis team leader in Arlington’s planning division, said the estimates are not surprising. “Certainly the region is a destination for immigrants, especially Northern Virginia, which attracts Latinos and Central Americans,” he said.
According to county estimates, the Hispanic population in the county has grown 2.6 percent since 2000, from 190,313 to 200,226. By 2030, the county estimates Hispanics will make up more than 27 percent of the county’s population.
Other indicators show Virginia’s minority populations are growing. Nearly 41 percent of children under five are minorities. In the District, this number is 81 percent, while in Maryland the percentage is more than 50 percent.
In addition, Virginia has the sixth fastest-growing minority population in the country. Maryland has the fourth fastest.
Maryland, Virginia and the District are also among the nation’s leaders in percentage of total population that are minorities. The District is first with 58 percent of its population comprised of minorities. Maryland is fifth with 30 percent and Virginia is tenth with 21 percent.
