Population of the United States, 1925 to 1975

In view of the interest in population growth in the United States and the practical value that accurate estimates of future growth would have, there is here presented an estimate of the population of the United States by ten-year periods up to 1975, the data being given separately for urban and rural populations and also by nativity groups. In other population estimates which have appeared from time to time, the census enumerations are generally used for calculating absolute increases, rates of increase, or as a basis for computing growth curves. In this estimate the total population is used as a point from which to start. Future trends are estimated separately for such factors as birth-rates, death-rates, immigration, and rural-urban migration. The total population at future dates is therefore the calculated result of several predicted factors, rather than an original prediction in itself. The results show a less rapid population increase for the future, making the reckless expansion of industrial plants, real estate additions, and the like unwarranted, but perhaps allowing us to catch up with our needs in social and civic activities such as schools, hospitals, and other essential facilities.