Westchester Bucks Statewide Trend, Sees Population Growth in 2025

County Executive cites development in New Rochelle and White Plains as drivers of population increase.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 8:20am

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While most New York counties saw population declines in 2025, Westchester County bucked the statewide trend and experienced growth. County Executive Ken Jenkins attributed the increase to major developments in the cities of New Rochelle and White Plains.

Why it matters

Population changes can have significant impacts on a region's economy, infrastructure needs, and political representation. Westchester's growth during a period of decline elsewhere in New York highlights the county's continued appeal as a place to live and work.

The details

According to Jenkins, the population gains in Westchester were driven by large-scale residential and commercial projects in New Rochelle and White Plains. These developments have attracted new residents to the county, offsetting losses seen in other parts of the state.

  • In 2025, most New York counties saw population declines.
  • On March 27, 2026, County Executive Ken Jenkins discussed Westchester's population growth in a meeting.

The players

Ken Jenkins

The County Executive of Westchester, New York, who spoke about the county's population growth in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“The big developments are in New Rochelle and in White Plains, where those modifications have taken place.”

— Ken Jenkins, Westchester County Executive

The takeaway

Westchester's ability to attract new residents during a period of statewide population decline highlights the county's continued economic vitality and appeal as a place to live. The growth is driven by major development projects, signaling Westchester's ability to adapt to changing population trends.