Radioandrecords.com
7/11/05

Where Hispanics live in the U.S. has changed significantly in just the last five years. According to information obtained by R&R, Hispanic growth seen since 2000 in some top 100 Arbitron metros is staggering. In Atlanta, the Hispanic 12+ population has surged by 107,615 persons, or 51%, from 2000 to 2005. As a result, the metro's total Hispanic population now numbers 318,500 -- more than such fast-growing markets as Fresno and Las Vegas. To the north in Charlotte, the Hispanic population grew 57% since 2000, to 94,500 people. Other Arbitron markets to see significant 12+ Hispanic growth in the last five years include Ft. Myers, up 56% to 19,400; Raleigh, up 55%, to 88,400; Greenville, SC, up 50%, to 29,800; and Albany, NY, up 47%, to 25,600 persons. More than 40% growth was also seen in Syracuse, Birmingham and Nashville.

St. Cloud, MN saw the greatest 12+ Hispanic gain, jumping 115% to 2,400 persons. That was followed by Watertown, NY (up 107%, to 7,300) and Fredericksburg, VA (up 76%, to 10,200). Just 22 Arbitron markets saw a loss in Hispanic population, including Pensacola and Panama City, FL; and Williamsport and Altoona, PA.