The 2020 Census results are in, and the growth is real. Columbia’s population grew over the last 10 years and now stands at 136,632 residents, up 5.7% from 2010, according to new data. Some things don’t change — the capital city still has more residents than any other area of Richland County.
In other words, that equates to 1 new resident every 3 hours for the past decade.
Why is this happening now?
Every 10 years, the US Census Bureau collects nationwide population and demographic data, which is used to redraw congressional and state legislative district lines + determine federal spending.
What did we find?
- In terms of population growth, Richland County attracted more residents during the past decade + accounts for 8.2% of the statewide growth.
- Blythewood’s population growth in this census exceeded expectations by 134.6% with a population now totaling 4,772.
- Lexington County also reported an increase of 12%, which equals 293,991 residents.
- West Columbia had the highest increase in Lexington County at 16% with 17,416.
Why does this matter?
Redistricting, or the process of redrawing council and school districts, is completed every 10 years after the US Census is finalized. New voting district boundaries must be balanced by population and follow traditional redistricting criteria.
With the census data now available, the state of South Carolina is getting ready to review the 7 US House districts, 46 state Senate districts, and 124 House districts. Stay up-to-date on the redistricting committee here.