Columbus, Ohio – New U.S. Census Bureau estimates released today show Columbus continuing to distinguish itself among America’s largest cities. Columbus remained the 15th largest city in the country in 2025 and, alongside Chicago, is one of only two Midwestern cities in the national top 15 by population.
The data also reflects the consistency of Columbus’ growth over time. Columbus has recorded population gains every year since 2011, with the exception of the COVID-impacted 2021 cycle, and continues to outperform many larger peer markets in both percentage and numeric growth. Among the nation’s 15 largest cities, Columbus ranked fourth in percentage population growth over the past year.
“The latest population data confirms what we are seeing across the Columbus metro every day: people are choosing to build their future here,” said Jason Hall, CEO of the Columbus Partnership. “Columbus is one of just two Midwestern cities among the 15 largest in the country and added more residents than cities like Austin, San Diego and Chicago. A strong urban core is essential to a strong region, and this kind of momentum reflects the opportunity, energy and economic competitiveness that continue to distinguish Columbus nationally.”
The city-level census estimates add to a broader series of recent indicators pointing to sustained momentum across the Columbus Region. Earlier this spring, new census estimates showed the Columbus metro growing at roughly twice the national rate. More recently, a Wall Street Journal analysis ranked Columbus the No. 4 hiring market in the country for new college graduates and the only Midwestern metro in the national top 15.
Full US Census release is available here.
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About the Columbus Partnership
The Columbus Partnership brings together civic-minded business leaders to advance a shared vision to make Columbus the most prosperous region in the country. Columbus Partnership member CEOs are committed to the future of the Columbus metropolitan area through high-impact civic and philanthropic engagement. Through our One Columbus and Smart Columbus brands and investor support, our team works to help create jobs and attract capital investment, expand access to opportunity, and improve the economic competitiveness of the Columbus Region. Learn more at columbusregion.com.