Virginia's Growth Story: Immigration Fuels 88% of Gains

Roanoke County hasn't lost population since World War II, and Montgomery County has grown steadily for more than 120 years. But new research from Old Dominion University reveals both would be shrinking right now without one powerful force: immigration.

The numbers tell a remarkable story. Between 2020 and 2024, Roanoke County grew by just 378 people, but gained 937 new immigrants. Montgomery County actually declined by 727 residents overall, but would have dropped even faster without 3,122 immigrants choosing to call it home.

This pattern isn't unique to these two counties. Across Virginia, immigration accounts for a stunning 88.3% of all population growth since the last census. When state leaders celebrated Virginia's growing population, they were celebrating the contributions of newcomers from around the world.

The Weldon Cooper Center at the University of Virginia tracked these trends and found something economists have known for years: population growth and economic vitality walk hand in hand. Communities losing people rarely thrive economically, while growing areas attract businesses confident they'll find both customers and workers.

The Ripple Effect

The economic benefits ripple far beyond population numbers. Northern Virginia, one of the state's most important economic engines, relies heavily on immigration to offset residents moving away. Without international newcomers, much of the region would actually be losing population, threatening its role as a jobs and innovation hub.

The Federal Reserve documented how the entire nation's economic growth accelerates when immigration rates rise and slows when they fall. Virginia's experience mirrors this national pattern perfectly.

Local businesses gain more customers as populations grow. Employers find it easier to fill positions and feel confident expanding operations. While some workers face increased competition, the overall effect creates economic momentum that benefits entire regions.

ODU's annual State of the Commonwealth report emphasizes that Virginia's slower economic growth connects directly to slowing population gains. The report warns that policies restricting immigration will hurt regions already struggling with domestic outmigration, creating economic headwinds for communities across the state.

Montgomery and Roanoke counties represent a broader American story. Birth rates have declined nationwide, making immigration increasingly essential for maintaining the population growth that fuels economic opportunity. Communities once able to grow through births alone now depend on welcoming newcomers to maintain their vitality.

These aren't abstract statistics but real people choosing Virginia as their home, starting businesses, filling jobs, paying taxes, and raising families. They're keeping century-long growth streaks alive and powering the commonwealth's economic future.

Virginia's story shows how welcoming newcomers creates a rising tide that lifts communities, preserves legacies of growth, and builds prosperity for everyone.