Verón and Bayahíbe lead the way in Dominican Republic’s population growth
A commercial street in Hoyo de Friusa, within the tourist district of Verón-Punta Cana. (File photo)
Santo Domingo.- The municipal districts of Verón and Bayahíbe have experienced the most significant population growth in the Dominican Republic, according to comparative census data from 2010 and 2022.
Verón-Punta Cana, located within the municipality of Higüey, saw a staggering 215.85% increase in population from 2010 to 2022. In 2010, the district had 43,982 residents, but by 2022, that number had skyrocketed to 138,919, representing a gain of 94,937 inhabitants, according to data released today by the Municipios al Día news outlet.
The surge in population in Verón-Punta Cana more than triples the district’s 2010 population, making it the area with the most dramatic population growth over the past decade. This rapid increase is largely attributed to the area’s development as a major tourist hub, attracting workers and their families.
Additionally, Haitian immigration has played a crucial role in this demographic change. Many Haitians have settled in the region, seeking better economic opportunities and escaping the ongoing crisis in their home country. This influx has led to the establishment of communities near areas like the Friusa Crossing, contributing to the district’s diverse and growing population.
Meanwhile, Bayahíbe, part of the municipality of San Rafael del Yuma, experienced a 148.58% population increase, growing from 2,260 residents in 2010 to 5,618 in 2022, adding 3,358 new residents.
Following closely behind in terms of growth rate is Las Lomas de Azua with a 98.42% increase, followed by La Guáyiga in Pedro Brand with 81.51%, and Don Juan Rodríguez de La Vega with 78.00%.
A more comprehensive list of districts and their growth rates can be found in the accompanying image:
