Virginia State Facts & Information

Virginia's population reached approximately 8.81 million in 2024, making it the 12th most populous state in the United States. The state experienced an increase of 76,510 residents (0.88%) between 2023 and 2024. Fairfax County has the highest population with 1,160,925 residents, followed by Prince William County with 497,003 residents.

Glenn Youngkin, a member of the Republican Party, is the current 74th Governor of Virginia. He took office on January 15, 2022. Virginia governors are limited to a single four-year term and cannot serve consecutive terms according to the state constitution.

Virginia's nominal GDP for 2024 is $761.7 billion, with a real GDP of $616.06 billion (in chained 2017 dollars). The state's GDP per capita is $69,918, ranking 13th highest among all 50 states. Virginia's economy grew at an annual rate of 3.2% in the second quarter of 2024, outpacing the national average. Key economic drivers include the defense industry, which contributes over $36 billion annually and supports over 300,000 jobs.

Virginia's state motto is "Sic Semper Tyrannis," a Latin phrase meaning "Thus Always to Tyrants." Adopted in 1776, this motto was credited to Virginia statesman George Wythe. It reflects Virginia's commitment to resisting tyranny and oppression, emphasizing the state's dedication to the principles of freedom and self-governance. The motto is prominently featured on the state seal of Virginia.

Virginia earned the nickname "Old Dominion" because it was the first of England's overseas dominions. The name reflects Virginia's status as the oldest English colony in the New World, established in 1607 at Jamestown. This historical significance has made Virginia a cornerstone in American history, often called the "Mother of Presidents" as eight U.S. presidents were born in the state.

Virginia was admitted to statehood on June 25, 1788, becoming the 10th state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. Virginia played a crucial role in the founding of the United States, with many of the nation's Founding Fathers coming from the state, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison. Richmond, the state capital, was also the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War.

New Kent County experienced the fastest growth in Virginia between 2020 and 2024, with an 18.6% increase in its resident population. Other rapidly growing areas include the Northern Virginia region, particularly in counties near Washington, D.C. such as Loudoun and Prince William counties. These areas benefit from proximity to federal employment opportunities and strong technology sector growth.

The defense industry is crucial to Virginia's economy, contributing over $36 billion annually and supporting more than 300,000 jobs. Virginia has the highest defense spending of any state per capita, with approximately 12% of all U.S. federal procurement money spent in the state. This sector provides around 900,000 jobs total when including both direct and indirect employment. Major military installations include the Pentagon, Naval Station Norfolk, and Quantico Marine Corps Base.