NWA Population Approaches 500,000 Mark

The Northwest Arkansas Council recently announced the population of the Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers metropolitan area is on-track to reach more than 500,000 on May 28.

This date was determined using the estimated population of the area from the 2013 U.S. Census and adding a growth rate of 24 people a day, based on the population increase between 2010 and 2013 census.

The milestone is noteworthy because, at the 500,000 population mark, the region is more likely to draw the attention of expanding businesses across the country, according to a press release from the council.  

When it hits the mark, it will mean Northwest Arkansas has doubled its population in the last 24 years. And that growth has happened in all four counties that comprise the region: Benton, Madison and Washington counties in Arkansas and McDonald County, Missouri. 

And the growth has brought with it an increase in diversity.

“We’re proud that diverse individuals have helped spur this growth, demonstrating the breadth of opportunities that Northwest Arkansas offers to a wide range of people,” said Mireya Reith, executive director of the Arkansas United Community Coalition in Fayetteville.

Cities throughout the region have been recognized on a national level in recent years for its offerings in areas like schools, job growth, low crime rates, affordability and business opportunities, according to the council.

“It’s been exciting to watch the growth and what it’s meant to the region,” Jeff Schomburger said, in the press release. “The quality and diversity of our educational options, from elementary school through high school, are a strong asset when we’re recruiting top P&G talent to our region. As we’ve approached 500,000 residents, the growth, opportunities and quality of life have resulted in Northwest Arkansas being a coveted destination for P&G families to work and live.”