WILMINGTON — North Carolina remains one of the fastest-growing states in the country, according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau estimates released this week.
Despite a nationwide slowdown in population growth last year, North Carolina grew by nearly 150,000 people, making it the state with third-largest total population increase after Texas and Florida.
North Carolina was also ranked the top state for state-to-state migration. North Carolina’s population was 11.2 million as of July 1, 2025, according to the Census Bureau.
“North Carolina’s secret is out,” Governor Josh Stein wrote in a press release. “Our strong economic growth, natural beauty, and good people are attracting others from around the country.”
The governor also advocated for a “fiscally responsible budget” to keep pace with a growing population. The General Assembly has enacted a plan to reduce its income tax rate incrementally to reach 3.99% this fiscal year and eliminating the corporate income tax. The NC Budget and Tax Center estimates the tax cuts will cost $8 billion annually by 2031.
“We cannot let this momentum slip through our fingers by chasing irresponsible tax cuts for out-of-state corporate shareholders when we can’t retain the best teachers and law enforcement officers will hinder our progress,” Stein wrote. “Let’s pass a fiscally responsible budget that invests in our people and continues to make North Carolina the best place to live, work, and raise a family.”
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