The U.S. Census Bureau says the nation has added about three milllion people in the last year, growing to an all-time high of just under 294 million.
New Census Bureau estimates show most of the growth occuring in southern and western states, continuing a trend that dates back at least 30 years.
Analysts say most of these states are attracting both immigrants and residents from other states seeking jobs, warm weather and a better quality of life.
The western state of Nevada was the nation's fastest-growing state for the 18th consecutive year. Other states in the top five include Arizona, Florida, Idaho and Georgia.
The only areas to lose population were the northeastern state of Massachusetts and the District of Columbia, home to the nation's capital, Washington.