Each year, the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) produces population estimates for the Atlanta region. These estimates are developed using a number of data sources, including building permits, school enrollment and occupancy rates.
ARC is required by state law to develop population estimates each year for its 11 member counties and the city of Atlanta for the purpose of collecting dues.
Metro Atlanta added 64,940 people in the past year, pushing the region’s 11-county population to 5.1 million, according to 2021-2022 population estimates released by the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC).
Each of metro Atlanta’s 11 counties saw population increases in the past year. Gwinnett County added the most residents with 13,460 new residents. The next three counties with the most growth were Fulton with 11,200; Cobb with 6,900; and Cherokee with 6,890.
The following chart shows ARC’s population estimates for 11 counties.
| Jurisdiction | 2021 | 2022 | Change 2021-2022 |
| Atlanta Region | 5,026,704 | 5,091,644 | 64,940 |
| Cherokee | 272,950 | 279,840 | 6,890 |
| Clayton | 300,085 | 302,285 | 2,200 |
| Cobb | 772,349 | 779,249 | 6,900 |
| DeKalb | 769,592 | 775,022 | 5,430 |
| Douglas | 146,237 | 149,297 | 3,060 |
| Fayette | 120,684 | 122,684 | 2,000 |
| Forsyth | 258,413 | 265,033 | 6,620 |
| Fulton | 1,075,970 | 1,087,170 | 11,200 |
| Gwinnett | 970,242 | 983,702 | 13,460 |
| Henry | 245,902 | 252,502 | 6,600 |
| Rockdale | 94,280 | 94,860 | 580 |
| City of Atlanta | 501,945 | 507,015 | 5,070 |
For more data and information about metro Atlanta:
ARC’s Strategic Partners are committed to fostering collaborative regional approaches that improve quality of life in metro Atlanta. Their support elevates ARC leadership programs, research and events throughout the year. Learn more
