Atlanta Population and Atlanta Demographics

Atlanta Population: 

• 5,475,213 (2009 est.) in the 28-county Atlanta Metropolitan Statistical Area, designated by the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce
• 4,124,300 in the 10-county Atlanta region
• 540,922 (2009 est.) in the City of Atlanta
Source:  Atlanta Regional Commission, 2011; Census Bureau 2009

Ask any Atlantan to name a word to describe the changing Atlanta population; the word dynamic often comes to mind. It describes the rapid changes the city has seen and will see in Atlanta demographics over the next 10 years.

In the past six years, the metro area has added more than 458,568 people annually, more than any other in the United States . At this growth rate, the projected population of Atlanta 's 20 core counties for 2020 is 6.4 million.

Atlanta has no natural boundaries, so the metropolitan area is large, encompassing 8,480.27 square miles.  Across the region, 28 counties and 140 municipalities govern. The City of Atlanta , in the center of the metropolitan area, encompasses 131 square miles.

Growth means the Atlanta population has become more diverse. In fact, the city's racial diversity is greater than the nation as a whole. Atlanta is also younger than the U.S. population with an average age of 34 compared to 36 for the population as a whole. More than 35 percent of those who moved here from 2000 – 2004 came to Atlanta from a different state. The largest percentage of people came from New York and New Jersey .

If you are planning a visit to Atlanta , be warned. Many people who visit fall in love and decide to call Atlanta home. With great weather, diverse Atlanta population and strong economy, it's easy to see why.

Sources: Atlanta Development Authority, Atlanta Regional Commission, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce