Waltham's population exceeds 60,000

Waltham’s population edged above 60,000 as of July 2008, growing slightly in the eight years since the government last compiled census data, according to a population estimate compiled by the Census Bureau.

As of July, 2008, the city was home to approximately 60,000 people, growing by 1,010 people—or 1.7 percent—since 2000, according to the Census Bureau’s population annual estimate.

In contrast, the population in the neighoring town of Newton fell slightly, from 83,829 residents in 2000 to 82,139 residents in 2008--a 2 percent drop. Newton is ranked 11th out of 351 towns in terms of population, according to the survey.

Waltham’s population ranks the city 16th of 351Massachusetts towns in terms of population. Boston is the largest city, with more than 600,000 residents, and Gosnold came in as the smallest, with 83 residents, according to the survey.

The Census Bureau produces population estimates annually, using birth and death records, Internal Revenue Service documents and immigration statistics to compile the data.

The next national census will take place in April, 2010.

To see a chart of all 351 Massachusetts towns and cities compiled by the Globe, click HERE.

Learn more about the census at: census.gov.