Atlanta Experiences Significant Population Growth

Atlanta, GA, August 13, 2025

News Summary

Atlanta has seen a surge of 64,400 new residents from April 2024 to April 2025, raising the metro area’s population to approximately 5,285,474. This growth, attributed to the city’s diverse economy and high quality of life, is reflected in the fast growth rates of Forsyth and Cherokee counties, each at 2.4%. Despite challenges like housing affordability, the region continues to attract newcomers and has issued nearly 30,000 building permits, indicating a robust housing market.

Atlanta has witnessed a significant population surge, adding 64,400 new residents from April 2024 to April 2025, according to the latest report from the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC). This growth raises the total population of the 11-county metro Atlanta area to approximately 5,285,474.

Within the city limits, Atlanta’s population is now estimated at 542,715. This growth is largely attributed to the city’s diverse economy and high quality of life, which continue to attract newcomers and retain current residents.

Forsyth and Cherokee counties experienced the fastest growth rates in the region, each at 2.4%. Meanwhile, the City of Atlanta itself recorded a growth rate of 2%, with Henry County close behind at 1.75%. In contrast, the previous year recorded a slightly lower population increase, with the region adding 62,700 residents between 2023 and 2024.

Over the last five years, the average annual growth rate for the Atlanta area has stood at 1.2%. This represents a decline from historically higher rates seen in the 1980s and 1990s, which averaged around 3.1%.

The economy of metro Atlanta saw an 8% growth since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, positioning it as the seventh-highest growth rate among major metropolitan regions in the United States. All 11 counties in the Atlanta area registered population growth during this recent period, with Fulton County leading at an increase of 18,800 residents and Gwinnett County adding 15,200 residents.

In terms of new residential development, the region issued a total of 29,482 building permits in 2024, marking a 3% increase from the previous year, although this figure remains below historical averages. Atlanta itself led the way with 8,109 permits issued, highlighting its robust construction and housing market.

Despite the good news surrounding population growth and economic expansion, Atlanta faces ongoing challenges, including housing affordability and transportation issues, which underline the need for continued investment and planning in infrastructure and housing initiatives. The projected population for the Atlanta region is expected to reach 7.9 million by 2050, an increase of 1.8 million since 2020, with significant growth anticipated in outer counties like Forsyth.

Key Growth Statistics

• Total residents added (2024-2025): 64,400
• Total metro Atlanta population: 5,285,474
• City of Atlanta population: 542,715
• Fastest growth counties: Forsyth and Cherokee at 2.4%
• Residential building permits issued (2024): 29,482

Future Projections

The Atlanta region is on a trajectory to experience substantial growth in the coming decades, pushing toward an estimated population of 7.9 million by 2050, particularly fueled by developments in suburban and outer areas.

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Additional Resources

• Saporta Report: Metro Atlanta Population Report
• Google Search: Atlanta population growth
• WGAA Radio: New Residents in Metro Atlanta
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Atlanta population growth
• Atlanta News First: Population Report
• Google News: Atlanta population 2025

Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER

The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.