Florida has third largest population growth, could surpass New York soon if trend continues

Florida had the nation's third largest population growth in the past year.

The U.S. Census reported Wednesday that Florida grew by 256,000 residents from April 2010 to July 2011.

Texas and California were the only states with larger growth.

Florida now has 19.1 million residents, making it the nation's fourth most populous state.

Florida is within striking distance of surpassing New York in population size. All it takes is an additional 400,000 residents.

If current growth trends continue, Florida could pass New York in population size in two years.