Growth Slows Down in D.C. Suburbs

"The galloping growth of Washington's outer Virginia suburbs is slowing at last, according to Census Bureau estimates to be released today, with high housing costs beginning to dull the appeal of counties that have long been a magnet for newcomers."

"Loudoun, the nation's second-fastest-growing county in 2005, dropped to fourth place largely because only 7,506 people moved in during 2006, compared with 12,002 the previous year."

"Fairfax's growth rate also declined, but for a different reason: Ever more residents are moving out of the county."

"The shift brings Northern Virginia in line with the District and Maryland, where Montgomery County's growth rate continued to slow and growth in two other counties -- Anne Arundel and Prince George's -- stagnated in 2006."