Census shows Westport growing in size and diversity

WESTPORT — The town’s overall population grew by 750 — roughly 2.8 percent — between 2010 and 2020, but its white population fell by more than 1,500 during that time, according to the latest U.S. Census numbers. Whites were one of only two racial groups to decline in the town, with the other.

According to the Census data, the town’s overall population went from 26,391 in 2010 to 27,141 in 2020. Between 2010 and 2020, Westport’s White population dropped by 1,546 from 23,715 to 22,169, a decrease of 8.2 percent

The town’s Black population, however, went from 292 to 375 — an increase of .3 percent — and its Asian population went from 1,038 to 1,703, an increase of 2.3 percent. The American Indian population also went up, from to 5 to 15. The Hispanic population increased from 932 to 1,592, a change of 2.3 percent.

The town’s Hawaiian population was the only ethnic group other than White to fall, from 8 in 2010 to 0 in 2020.

Westport’s multiracial population also grew over the past 10 years, from 341 in 2010 to 1,135 in 2020, an increase of 2.9 percent.

Overall, the town’s non-White population grew from 10.1 percent in 2010 to 18.3 percent in 2020.

Westport First Selectman Jim Marpe cheered the community’s growth in both residents and diversity, but said more work needs to be done on both counts.

“Westport’s population increase between 2010 and 2020 proves that Westport continues to be an attractive community to move to,” he said. “I am pleased to see that our efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity have been effective, as evidenced by the percentage increase of other ethnicities in Westport. Despite these positive results, we continue working to maintain and improve Westport’s attractiveness by focusing on the town’s economic vitality, it’s world class public education and increasing its diversity.”