Bandon’s population increased by about 500 people over the past eight years or about 17.7 percent.

That’s according to the preliminary 2008 population estimates from Portland State University’s Population Research Center.

The population estimate for Bandon, as of July 1, was 3,335 — an increase of 100 more than the July 1, 2007, estimate. This represents a growth rate of 3.1 percent over the last year, according to PSU.

The 2000 census tallied the population at 2,833.

“One of the most important factors in planning for Bandon’s future is ensuring an adequate supply of water, so city staff uses these figures to track how fast the community is currently estimated to be growing, ...” said City Manager Matt Winkel. “This helps us determine whether we are approaching the water supply limits quicker or slower than anticipated.”

The actual population may be somewhat lower than the official estimates, he said. Researchers use building permit activity in determining the population projections, but Bandon has a large number of second home and vacation residents and a large number of unoccupied homes constructed over the last few years. He figures the actual population will be more accurately determined when the 2010 U.S. Census is completed.

PSU’s Population Research Center was formed in 1956. It prepares annual population estimates for cities and counties to provide the basis for the distribution of state tax-shared revenues.