Virginia State Population

Virginia's 8.7 million residents.

Virginia's population currently stands at approximately 8.7 million, making it the 12th most populous state in the U.S. Its demographic journey is rich, beginning as one of the earliest and most populous English colonies, experiencing significant growth fueled by agriculture and, tragically, enslaved labor, before suffering population stagnation and even decline in the aftermath of the Civil War. The 20th century, however, ushered in a new era of expansion, largely driven by the federal government's influence in Northern Virginia, the growth of military installations, and the development of major metropolitan hubs like Richmond and Hampton Roads. Today, growth continues, particularly concentrated in the urban crescent stretching from Northern Virginia down to the southeastern coast, fueled by a diverse economy including technology, defense, and higher education, leading to increasing racial and ethnic diversity, a continued suburbanization trend, and an overall upward trajectory, albeit with some rural areas experiencing decline as younger generations gravitate towards economic opportunities in the burgeoning urban and suburban centers.

Data Source: US Census Bureau