When the 2020 U.S. Census state population results were announced Monday there were many surprises, including in Arizona where population estimates for the last few years were found to be too good to be true.
Arizona’s population is now officially at almost 7.16 million, up 746,223 from April 2010 to April 2020. It represents the eighth largest increase by number and the ninth fast growth rate in the country, according to Gov. Doug Ducey’s AZ Census 2020.
Unfortunately, that is about 250,000 less than population estimates in use by state officials since 2019. More detailed data by counties and communities is expected to be released this summer.
One result of Arizona’s less than expected population growth is that the state will not earn a 10th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives. And those who hold those seats are now representing more than 790,000 residents each.
While Arizona held its nine congressional seats, there were several changes across the country. California, Illinois, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia all lost one seat, while Colorado, Florida, Montana, North Carolina, and Oregon added a seat. Texas added two congressional seats for a total 38 districts representing more than 29 million residents.
Once more detailed population information is released then the Arizona Independent Restricting Commission will redraw the state’s nine congressional districts. That process will likely run through 2022.
While Ducey did not release a direct statement about the census results, a tweet posted by AZ Census 2020 noted census officials and volunteers reached out to 99.9 percent of all households to be counted despite COVID-19 lockdowns and other social distancing challenges.
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who donated their time to serve. They did so in the face of unprecedented challenges, going above and beyond expectations. Their efforts will absolutely make a difference for Arizonans and positively impact our state for years to come,” the tweet reads.