Census figures show New Mexico most Hispanic state, with 46 per cent of population
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — New Mexico has retained its place as the most Hispanic state in the U.S. — and Hispanics were responsible for most of the state's growth between 2000 and 2010.
U.S. Census figures released Tuesday show New Mexico grew by more than 240,000 people over the decade to 2 million, and 78 per cent of that increase was among Hispanics.
Hispanics made up more than 42 per cent of the state's population in 2000. That's now more than 46 per cent.
National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials executive director Arturo Vargas says California has the second highest percentage of Hispanics, with 38 per cent.
New Mexico is one of a handful of states in which the majority of the population belongs to minority groups.