Texas Cities Conroe, Montgomery Grow in Pop & Diversity

**Conroe’s Rapid Ascent: Texas’ Fastest-Growing Large City Sees Population Boom and Evolving Demographics**

CONROE, TX – Conroe, a dynamic city nestled north of Houston, has officially claimed its place as the fastest-growing large city in Texas and the seventh-fastest nationally, according to new estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau. The city’s population surged to 101,476 by mid-2022, marking a remarkable increase of over 13,000 residents, or 14.8%, since April 1, 2020.

This dramatic growth not only pushes Conroe past the 100,000 population milestone but also ushers in a significant demographic transformation, reshaping the city’s cultural landscape.

As of July 1, 2022, Conroe’s demographic profile shows Hispanic or Latino residents now constituting the largest single group at 42.2%, closely followed by White residents at 42.1%. Black or African American individuals account for 11.2% of the population, with Asian residents at 2.7%. The remaining percentages include those identifying as two or more races (1.6%), American Indian/Alaska Native (0.3%), and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (0.1%).

“This growth isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the vibrancy and diversity that new residents bring to our community,” stated Conroe Mayor Sara Thompson, in a recent interview. “We’ve become a magnet for families and businesses drawn to our quality of life, economic opportunities, and the strategic advantage of being along the I-45 corridor with proximity to Lake Conroe and the Greater Houston area.”

**Why Conroe is Booming**

Conroe’s explosive growth is attributed to a confluence of factors. Its relatively affordable housing market compared to neighboring communities like The Woodlands and Houston itself, coupled with robust job creation in sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, and retail, has made it an attractive destination. Major employers continue to expand, and new commercial developments are transforming the city’s landscape.

The city has also proactively invested in infrastructure, including road improvements, water and sewer expansion, and new public amenities, to keep pace with the influx of residents. However, this rapid expansion also brings its challenges.

“We’re seeing more traffic, and our schools are growing quickly,” noted Maria Rodriguez, a Conroe resident for five years who moved from Houston for better housing affordability. “But it also means more restaurants, more shopping, and a very diverse community where my children are exposed to so many cultures.”

City officials acknowledge these challenges, emphasizing ongoing planning efforts. “Managing growth responsibly is our top priority,” Mayor Thompson added. “We’re focused on smart development, ensuring our infrastructure keeps pace, and maintaining the unique character and community spirit that makes Conroe special, even as we evolve.”

**Montgomery Also Sees Steady Growth**

Meanwhile, the historic city of Montgomery, just a short drive west of Conroe, is also experiencing its own steady, albeit less dramatic, growth spurt. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates its population reached 2,751 by mid-2022. This represents an increase of 199 residents, or 7.8%, since April 1, 2020. Even within a single year, from July 1, 2021, to July 1, 2022, Montgomery’s population grew by a solid 4.2%.

Montgomery’s demographics, while less pronounced in their shift than Conroe’s, also reflect a changing community. The July 1, 2022, data indicates White residents make up 71.7% of the population, with Hispanic or Latino individuals at 20.2%. Black or African American residents are 5.7%, and those reporting two or more races are 1.9%. Asian residents account for 0.5%, with no reported American Indian/Alaska Native or Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander residents in that timeframe.

“Montgomery offers a different kind of appeal – a rich history, a charming small-town atmosphere, and a slower pace of life, while still being close to all the amenities of Conroe and Lake Conroe,” explained Montgomery City Administrator Bryan Clements. “Our growth reflects people seeking that balance. We are committed to preserving our heritage and unique identity as we welcome new families to our community.”

For residents like Sarah Davies, who recently moved to Montgomery from a larger suburb, the city’s appeal is clear. “We wanted more space, a quiet neighborhood, and a sense of community that feels lost in bigger cities,” she said. “Montgomery delivers that, and it’s exciting to see it grow thoughtfully.”

The growth in both Conroe and Montgomery underscores the broader trend of rapid expansion across Montgomery County, driven by Texas’ strong economy and the continued appeal of the Greater Houston metropolitan area. As these cities continue to attract new residents, their evolution promises to shape the future of the region for decades to come.

*Census data referenced from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Vintage 2022 Population Estimates Program. For more detailed information, visit the U.S. Census Bureau website.*