Lehigh Valley’s population grew by more than 21,000 since 2020, with people drawn to the region because of the quality of life here and the growing economy that is powering a multitude of career opportunities.
That growth places Lehigh and Northampton counties both in the Top 8% of all counties in the U.S. 
Lehigh Valley’s population increase stems from migration – people moving here from elsewhere in the U.S. and the world. And the growth is particularly pronounced among young adults, a desired demographic for employers, according to an analysis of U.S. Census data by Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation (LVEDC).
“Employers stay and grow or locate where there is a population with a diverse range of skills and talent,” said Don Cunningham, President and CEO of LVEDC. “The growing and talented population, particularly that of young people, is the secret sauce of the economic growth in the Lehigh Valley. It’s impossible to have one without the other.”
Lehigh Valley’s population is now 708,644. Growth was consistent across the region, with 50 of the region’s 62 municipalities adding people.
Three of those communities – Bethlehem (3rd), Upper Macungie Township (4th), and Easton (8th) were in the Top 10 in Pennsylvania for the number of new residents.
Population growth fuels economic growth. Employers want to locate where people want to live, and an increasing population meets the demand for talent at employers. Lehigh Valley is at an all-time high in employment, with more than 341,000 jobs.
People want to live here because of the quality of life, which includes lifestyle options for all tastes. There are rural, suburban, and urban living opportunities, outdoors activities including the Appalachian Trail, and a variety of restaurants, nightlife, and festivals. The region boasts a highly rated healthcare system and is home to 11 colleges and universities.
The quality of life has drawn numerous accolades in recent years.
Bethlehem was named one of the Best Places to Live in the U.S., and Bethlehem’s Moravian Church Settlements were named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Easton was named one of Pennsylvania’s Best Downtowns. Macungie was named one of hottest ZIP codes. The Da Vinci Science Center and Downtown West in Allentown were recognized as top developments.
Lehigh Valley’s population between the ages of 18 and 34 grew by nearly 9,000 from 2020 to 2024. Both Lehigh and Northampton counties rank in the Top 10% of all U.S. counties for growth of people within that age range, with Northampton second among all Pennsylvania’s 67 counties. There was a particularly large increase in those ages 20-24, which grew by 11.7%.
Lehigh Valley continues to be an international draw, with nearly 17,000 people from other countries moving here. The growth was particularly high in Lehigh County, which ranks in the Top 5% of all U.S. counties for international migration.
Northampton County ranks in the Top 5% of all U.S. counties for domestic migration.
Lehigh County was one of only eight counties in Pennsylvania with positive natural population growth, with more births than deaths.
(Top photo by Donna Fisher Photography. Bottom photo by Rick Kintzel)