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The Capital Region experienced significant population growth in 2024, making it the third fastest-growing area in the state. According to the Center for Economic Growth's analysis of U.S. Census Bureau data, the region's population increased by 5,314 people, reaching a total of 1,115,663. This growth rate of 0.5% was surpassed only by New York City, which saw a 1% increase, and the Hudson Valley, with a 0.8% rise.
Albany County led the region with the largest population gain, adding 1,964 residents. Schenectady County followed with an increase of 1,883 people, and Rensselaer County saw a rise of 903. Notably, Schenectady County was the only county in the area to record more births than deaths, contributing to its growth.
The Albany-Schenectady-Troy metropolitan area, which includes five counties, experienced a population increase of 6,262, or 0.7%, from the previous year. This made it the second largest increase in residents among New York's 13 metropolitan statistical areas. The growth was driven by net international migration, with 5,572 people moving into the area from abroad, marking a 20.8% increase from the previous year.
Saratoga and Schenectady counties led the state in domestic migration gains, with 983 and 970 new residents, respectively. The Capital Region's growth reflects broader trends in New York, where some areas are seeing population increases despite overall state declines.