Over half of the American population lives within 50 miles of the coast

In the United States, coastal counties constitute only 17 percent of the total land area (not including Alaska), but account for 53 percent of the total population. High densities of population along coastal regions can place great stress upon the environment.

Coastal areas are home to a wealth of natural and economic resources and are the most developed areas in the nation. The narrow fringe comprising 17 percent of the contiguous U.S. land area is home to more than half of the nation's population.

Between the years 1980 and 2003, population in coastal counties increased by 33 million people or by 28 percent. The largest gain was seen in the Pacific region. Additionally, in 2003, 23 of the 25 most densely populated counties were in coastal areas.

By the year 2008, coastal county population was expected to increase by approximately seven million.

For more information:
Population Trends Along the Coastal United States: 1980-2008