Detroit's Population Growth Now Makes It The Nation's 26th Largest City

(Source: MIRS.news, Published 05/15/2025) The U.S. Census reported that the city of Detroit's population grew by 6,791 people in 2024 and that it undercounted the Motor City's growth from 2021-23 by 5,696 for a total of 12,487 residents, making Detroit now the country's 26th largest city at 645,705, jumping over Portland, Oregon.

Detroit now ranks just behind Boston at 25 and is growing at a rate of 1.1 percent, which beats the national average, according to the City of Detroit. In raw numbers, no other city in Michigan grew by more than 6,791 residents in the past year.

At a gathering of city employees and community members Thursday morning, Mayor Mike Duggan thanked and gave credit to the people who spent years working for Detroit to hear news like this.

“This record growth would not have been possible without the hard work of longtime Detroiters, our business community and city employees over the past 12 years,” Duggan said. “Together, we have created a city that is full of opportunity and vibrancy for new and existing Detroiters alike. These new numbers also show that the hard work of ensuring every Detroiter is counted has been worth the effort,” the Mayor added.

In May 2024, the Census Bureau reported a Detroit population increase of 1,852, the first increase since 1957.

Duggan's independent gubernatorial campaign was quick to send out a fundraising email highlighting the numbers.

“Behind the numbers is a real story,” reads the Team Duggan email. "Under Duggan’s leadership, Detroit removed blight and built more affordable housing. Businesses are moving in and bringing good-paying jobs. Entrepreneurs are opening new businesses. Young people are building futures in Detroit and driving solutions.

“Now, Mike Duggan is ready to deliver that same momentum to communities across Michigan.”