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March 26th2026

PRESS RELEASE: New Census Data Confirms Greater Brazos Region as One of America’s Most Vital Growth Hubs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

[Brazos Region, TX – 3/26/26] – New analysis of cumulative U.S. Census Bureau data from 2020 to 2025 has confirmed what business leaders in the Greater Brazos Region already know: the region’s Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), encompassing the City of College Station and the City of Bryan, is a national leader in both total population growth and overall growth velocity.

According to the new data, the region now ranks #100 out of 387 MSAs nationwide for total population increase, adding nearly 20,000 new residents since 2020. This unique momentum places the region firmly in the top Tier 1 for numerical growth in the country.

Even more significant for the business and investment community is the region’s growth rate. The region secured the #65 ranking nationally for percentage growth rate, growing at 7.2% over the five-year period. This outpaces the national average by nearly 1.6 times, placing the region in the top 17% of the fastest-growing metros in the United States.

“This data proves that the Greater Brazos region isn't just growing, we are growing with purpose,” said Tom Johnson, CEO and President of the Greater Brazos Partnership. “Ranking 65th in the nation for growth rate validates that we are a preferred destination for both national and international talent. For companies looking to recruit a young, skilled, and energetic workforce, or for investors seeking a dynamic and resilient economy, this data sends a powerful message.  The 'internal engine' of our region, driven by natural population change and a global draw, is one of the strongest in Texas and in the nation. We are perfectly positioned to support high-impact companies seeking both a strategic location and a robust pipeline of Texas A&M talent, which is one of the largest in the world.”

The data further reveals a highly desirable "two-factor" engine for growth:

  • A "Young" Demographic: More than 36% of the region’s growth came from “Natural Change” (births outpacing deaths), a vitality metric that few U.S. metros can claim, signaling a young, stable workforce pipeline.
  • Global Draw: Over 64% of the region's growth was driven by net migration, heavily powered by strong international movement, highlighting the global reach and reputation of the region, anchored by the innovation ecosystem of Texas A&M University.

This robust data set confirms that the region is not just a participant in the Texas Triangle, one of the largest economies in the world, but a primary driver.  The Brazos region is a premier location for the jobs and industries of tomorrow. 

For more strategic analysis of this data or to learn why the Greater Brazos region is the right choice for your next investment, contact the Greater Brazos Partnership at greaterbrazos.org.

About the Greater Brazos Partnership (GBP).  The Greater Brazos Partnership is the premier economic development organization for the Greater Brazos Region, the Innovation Hub of the Texas Triangle.  The Partnership works to attract, retain, and grow high-wage jobs and capital investment in the region. GBP is dedicated to showcasing the region's unmatched talent pipeline, strategic location, and unique innovation ecosystem to global business leaders and investors.

Media Contact

Name: Jillian Ryan

Email: info@greaterbrazos.org

Phone: (979) 260-1755

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