Population Surge: Havasu Nears 60,000 Residents

Recent estimates from the United States Census Bureau suggest that Lake Havasu City’s population may soon approach 60,000. As of July 2023, the bureau reported approximately 59,257 residents, reflecting a 3.7% increase since the 2020 census, which recorded 57,144 inhabitants.

This growth trajectory is even more pronounced compared to the 2010 census, showing a remarkable 12.8% rise from the 52,527 residents counted then. However, these figures do not include the transient snowbird population, which complicates the city’s demographic profile.

Census criteria stipulate that snowbirds are registered at their primary residence—where they spend most of their time or where they are on counting day, April 1. This nuance could mean that actual numbers fluctuate significantly, especially during peak seasonal months.

The labor market in Lake Havasu City shows a healthy labor force of around 25,175 individuals, accompanied by an unemployment rate of 4.7%. These statistics point to a steadily growing economy alongside population increases.

Looking ahead, projections from the Lake Havasu Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) initially estimated a more conservative population growth of 0.7% annually from 2014 to 2040. However, newer data indicates that growth rates may be nearing 1% each year.

Throughout Mohave County, the population is anticipated to increase gradually in the next 15 years. The Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity forecasts a potential rise of 30,000 to 71,000 residents by 2040, signaling ongoing demographic shifts in the region.