Population

When New Mexico became a State in 1912, this region had a relatively small population. Since statehood, the region has had relatively consistent growth with average annual growth in the range of 2 to 3 percent.

Historical Population in the MRCOG Region, 1920 - 2000

Sources: U.S. Bureau of the Census and MRCOG
*Prior to 1990, Cibola County was part of Valencia County. The data have been adjusted to remove the population that resided in what is now Cibola County. The population for the southern Santa Fe County portion of the region was an estimate.

During the 1940's and 50's the region experienced a boom that was related to the expansion of defense spending for World War II and the Cold War. In the 1970's the economy of the area began to diversify with the development of "high-tech" industries which has produced another round of population growth.

Bernalillo County has historically served as the hub of the region. While this continues to be true, the surrounding counties have become increasingly attractive over time. In 1950, 80% of the regional population resided in Bernalillo County, and by 2000 that decreased to 75%. Meanwhile the surrounding counties, Sandoval County in particular, are gaining increasing shares of the regional population.

Historical Population for Counties in the MRCOG Region, 1950 - 2000

Sources: US Bureau of the Census and MRCOG

While the last decennial Census was in 2000, more recent data are available to provide insights into how the region is growing. MRCOG develops annual population estimates for counties and incorporated municipalities based on a variety of data including building permits, utility hook-ups, school enrollments, and tax assessor data.

Population Estimates by County and Municipality, 2005 and 2006

Source:  US Bureau of the Census and MRCOG

Population Estimates are based on 2006 municipal boundaries.  This is particularly relevant for Edgewood which had significant boundary changes and annexations since 2000. It is also relevant to Cuba which had an incorrect boundary in 2000 which was corrected by MRCOG in the estimates.

The region is estimated to have grown by 14% between 2000 and 2006. Albuquerque has had the largest numeric increase, averaging 10,000 new people a year. Rio Rancho has seen the fastest growth, 44%, over the past 6 years.