Williston fastest-growing micropolitan city in country, Dickinson ranks 3rd

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WILLISTON – Williston ranks as the fastest-growing micropolitan area in the country for the second year, the U.S. Census Bureau said today.

Census population estimates show that the Williston area gained 2,281 residents between July 1, 2011, and July 1, 2012, a 9.3 percent increase.

Dickinson ranks third on the list of fastest-growing micro areas with a population increase of 1,624 people during the same period, a 6.5 percent increase, according to Census estimates.

A micropolitan area has a population between 10,000 and 50,000 people.

“North Dakota’s workforce and economy have been accelerating for several years and the official estimates are now reflecting that growth,” said Rod Backman, chairman of the North Dakota Census Committee. “The fact of the matter is that North Dakota is attracting new residents across the entire state for good jobs and a stable economy.”

Officials believe there are more than 30,000 people living in temporary crew camps in the oil patch, Backman said.

The Census Bureau also reported annual population increases in areas of central and eastern North Dakota, including Fargo and Grand Forks.

“North Dakota's workforce and economy have been accelerating for several years and the official estimates are now reflecting that growth,” Backman said. “The fact of the matter is that North Dakota is attracting new residents across the entire state for good jobs and a stable economy.”

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