Brooklyn's Population: 2.73 Million (2020 Census)

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Brooklyn's population stands at 2,732,152—making it the most populous of New York City's five boroughs, surpassing Queens (2,405,464) and Manhattan (1,694,251).

Growth Trajectory

• 2010: 2,504,700 (+9.1% over decade)
• 2000: 2,465,326
• 1990: 2,300,664
• 1950 peak: 2,738,175 (slightly higher than 2020)

Demographic Highlights

• Density: 37,340/sq mi (14,418/km²)—2nd densest U.S. county (after Manhattan)
• Diversity: 35% White, 29% Black, 19% Hispanic, 13% Asian (2020, non-exclusive)
• Foreign-born: 37% (top origins: China, Jamaica, Haiti, Mexico, Russia/Ukraine)
• Households: 980,000+; average size 2.75

Implications

If Brooklyn were an independent city, it would rank 3rd nationally (after NYC and LA). Its population exceeds 15 U.S. states. The borough's growth—driven by immigration, domestic migration, and natural increase—fuels NYC's economic engine and congressional representation.