U.S. Census estimates of Pennsylvania’s total population as of July 1, 2024, show that Chester County is once again leading the state in population growth. The figures reported by the Pennsylvania State Data Center in Harrisburg showed that Pennsylvania experienced an overall population increase of just over 75,800 between 2020 and 2024. Among the 28 counties that increased in population, Chester County had the largest numeric increase, with 26,327 new residents. Pike County and Cumberland County were the fastest-growing counties when looking at percent change, with Pike at 6.5% and Cumberland at 6.2%. But not far behind was Chester, with a 4.9% increase. Chester County’s total population in July is estimated at 560,745, leaving it the smallest numerically of the five southeastern counties. Chester County commissioners were glad the county is seen as a desirable place to live, but expressed some reservations about the impact of growth on traffic congestion and open space.
Source: Daily Local; 3/20/2025