NORTH TEXAS — The North Central Texas region is projected to surpass a population of 9 million within the next year, according to data released by the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG).
The NCTCOG reported that North Texas had 8,952,590 residents as of Jan. 1, 2026, and that the region added more than 200,000 people in 2025.
Sarah Jackson, an analyst with NCTCOG, said the growth reflects continued migration into the region.
Collin County recorded the largest increase in population among counties in the region, adding about 64,700 residents, according to the data. Lowry Crossing, a city in Collin County, recorded the fastest percentage growth among North Texas cities, increasing by more than 45%.
Jackson said larger cities such as Fort Worth, Dallas, Celina and Denton also added residents, with Fort Worth recording the highest total population increase among large cities in the region.
Jackson said NCTCOG uses permitting data and housing stock in its methodology, which differs from U.S. Census estimates.
She said regional growth has increased demand for housing and infrastructure, including transportation planning and congestion management.