Greater Washington’s booming economy, cultural diversity, access to world-class attractions, history and physical beauty continue to draw people here, year after year.
The region’s population of 6.2 million ranks fifth in the nation — and is growing. In terms of population, Greater Washington grew from the tenth largest region in 1960, the ninth in 1980, the eighth in 1990, to the fifth largest region in 2008.
The powerful growth of professional and business services, technology, and green business, combined with the stability of federal government spending, has solidified Greater Washington’s position as the fourth largest regional economy in the U.S. With a 2008 gross regional product of $454 billion, Greater Washington’s economy is exceeded only by that of New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
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Population Growth

City Population Comparison

Educational Attainment Comparisons

Age Distribution

Racial and Ethnic Composition
