Conway Tops 70,000 Residents in Latest U.S. Census Bureau Update

Conway has surpassed 70,000 residents and doubled the nation’s median rate of growth among cities above 50,000, according to the latest data released by the U.S. Census Bureau.

The 817 cities with a population greater than 50,000 grew at a median rate of 0.79% from 2023 to 2024. Conway’s rate of growth was 1.70%, during which it added 1,100 new residents.

“Reaching a population of 70,000 marks a significant milestone for Conway,” said Mayor Bart Castleberry. “Conway's sustained growth is a reflection of our people, our shared vision, and the quality of life we offer.”

Since 2020, Conway has been one of the fastest growing in the country, ranking No. 74 across the nation. Its rate of growth in that time, 9.87%, represents more than 6,000 new residents and a growth rate 600% faster than cities above the 50,000 threshold. Conway was the fastest growing city in Arkansas in 2022 and 2023.

“Recent job announcements from Clayton Conway, Central Cold Storage, and Westrock Coffee are contributing to a rate of job growth that is double the national average,” Castleberry said. “We added more than 1,000 jobs last  year, roughly matching our rate of population growth.”

In 2024, the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce commissioned a housing study that identified the need for more than 900 homes in the next five years. The study also identified an anticipated shortage of 500 residential lots over that same time period.

“This study confirms what we have seen over the past several years — Conway is growing, and that growth brings opportunity and responsibility,” Castleberry said. “Meeting the demand for housing isn’t just about new homes, it’s about making sure Conway remains a place families, businesses, and talent can thrive in the years ahead.”