Jacksonville leading state in growth, according to Census Bureau

City among 15 most populous in nation in 2017, data shows

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – New numbers released by the U.S. Census Bureau show Jacksonville is leading the state in growth.

The city population is booming, according to new data. Numbers show the River City's population rose by more than 11,000 residents in 2016.

You can see evidence of the growth all over with more construction in neighborhoods like Bartram Park Preserve. 

Jacksonville is unique among Florida cities because the city makes up most of Duval County. 

Because of this, Jacksonville is Florida's most populous city, with 892,062 residents in 2017 -- this does not include metropolitan areas, which can include several cities.

Census figures show Jacksonville has grown by 68,000 residents. The growth is the most out of any Florida city since the last census count in 2010.

According to data from the Census Bureau, Jacksonville was the 12th most populous city in the country in 2017. The top five were New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston and Phoenix.


The U.S. Census Bureau also noted Fruitland Park's growth. Last year it grew by more than a third of its population, making it the fastest-growing city, town or village in Florida. Growth in Fruitland Park was driven by the expansion of the enormous retirement community, The Villages, into Fruitland Park. 

The next most populous cities in Florida were Miami, Tampa, and Orlando. More information on the census can be found on the Census Bureau website.


About the Authors:

Ashley Harding joined the Channel 4 news team in March 2013. She reports for and anchors The Morning Show.