Watch out, DCers – we’re shrinking! Or at least the U.S. Census thinks we are, a tiny bit anyway, according to an article in today’s Post. They stated that district residents declined by 4,097 people — from 557,620 in 2003 to 553,523 as of July 2004. But officials took issue with the number, noting that the U.S. Census overestimated D.C. population losses throughout the 90s. The census takers admit that their methods for the annual head count aren’t as accurate as their poll that is taken every decade, but insist that their indicators, such as income tax filings and birth and death records are as accurate as possible.

On the other hand, Virginia officially became the 11th fastest-growing state in the nation, with an increase of 94,543, bringing the state population to 7,459,827. Maryland also grew in numbers, but at a slower trend than previous years, adding around 45,000 people.

Meanwhile, the fastest growing states were those in the South and West. Nevada lead the pack, with New Mexico, Idaho and Utah also placing in the top states with the fastest growing populations.

Image from Census.gov