December 23, 2008

Tennessee ranks 15th in growth over year

Imagine if Pike County, KY., population 65,000 left the Bluegrass state and moved to Tennessee

That's equivalent to the increase in population Tennessee saw from July 2007 to July 2008, according to a U.S. Census report released Monday on the fastest-growing states.

Tennessee ranks 15th in the nation in year-over-year growth, up from 16th the previous year. The state's total population is at 6.2 million — 17th largest in the nation, a spot held for three years.

Eddie Garcia moved to Nashville more than a year ago from densely populated south Florida. He said he came to pursue a music career and enjoy the state's scenery.

"There is so much to do here," Garcia said. "There are mountains, there's different foods and, of course, there is music. Nashville is awesome. Other than the time zone difference, I enjoy it."

Nashville Gains Jobs

Even with the economic downturn, Nashville has shown some modest gains in employment, and the state's population growth will continue, said Garrett Harper, research director for the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce.

"In a comparative sense, we're still favorable with the cost of living, job opportunities and quality of life," Harper said. "Over the long term, I think the trend will hold true. This is something we watch closely."

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