Dover, NH Sees Growth in New Census Numbers

Dover is one of the fastest-growing communities in New Hampshire, according to new census numbers.

City Manager Michael Joyal said on Friday that he has examined the initial data that is coming out of the U.S. Census Bureau.

In 2010, there were 29,987 people counted in Dover. That number grew to 32,741 in 2020.

That reflects a 9.2 percent growth in the city's population, Joyal said.

"Dover, Rochester and Somersworth saw the most significant growth in the last 10 years. I think it's a reflection of the quality of life and the opportunities that exist in our area," Joyal said.

Joyal said the area has lots of different housing options for people. That, combined with good jobs, has been drawing people in.

Joyal is looking forward to receiving all of the data, including information on race and diversity.

According to census officials, they counted 331.4 million people living in America in 2020. More than three-quarters (77.9 percent) or 258.3 million were adults, 18 years or older — a 10.1 percent increase from 234.6 million in 2010.

The aging of baby boomers, those born between 1946 and 1964 is partly driving the growth in the adult population.

By comparison, the younger population under age 18 numbered 73.1 million, or 22.1 percent of the U.S. population in 2020. That's a 1.4 percent decrease from 74.2 million in 2010, according to officials.

The decline in the younger population is due to a decrease in fertility, they say.

Contact Managing News Editor Kimberley Haas at Kimberley.Haas@townsquaremedia.com.