Virginia's population is approximately 8.7 million, making it the 12th most populous state in the U.S. The population has grown steadily over the last several decades, driven largely by the economic engines of Northern Virginia (part of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area) and the Richmond and Hampton Roads regions.
The demographic composition is increasingly diverse. Approximately 60% of the population identifies as White, 19% as Black or African American, 10% as Hispanic or Latino, and 7% as Asian. The state has a robust international community, particularly in the northern counties.
Virginia boasts a highly educated populace; it consistently ranks in the top ten states for the percentage of adults holding a bachelor's degree or higher. Employment is generally strong, bolstered by the federal government, military, and technology sectors, leading to a median household income that ranks among the highest in the nation.