Maine’s population grew by 2,297 during the past year, or about .2 percent.

Out of all 50 states and Puerto Rico, Maine was the 46th fastest growing state, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, which Thursday released population estimates for July 1, 2006, to July 1, 2007.

In New England, Maine grew faster than Rhode Island, which lost population, and Vermont, which saw its population increase by 476 people during the past year. But Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire outpaced Maine.

Overall the Northeast saw the least growth compared to other regions of the country.