The Hispanic population boomed 61% between 1990 and 2001 – exploding from 21.9 million to 35.3 million – making it the fastest-growing group in America, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Projections say that the Hispanic population will triple in size by 2050, making up 24% of the total U.S. population, according to Strategy Research Corporation. Santiago and Valdés Solutions reports that Hispanic purchasing power is expected to hit the $675 billion mark in 2003, $928 billion by 2007 and $1.2 trillion by 2010.

The Census Bureau reports that over the past three years, the income of the typical Hispanic household has risen up to $3,880 (15.9%), which is the largest three-year increase of Hispanic income on record.

Santiago and Valdés Solutions also reports that Hispanic household income continues to grow, with 38% earning over $40,000 in 1999 vs. 26% in 1994. Currently over 3.5 million Hispanic households earn over $40,000 a year.

The Hispanic middle class segment grew 80% between 1979 and 1998, according to the Tomas Rivers Center at Scripps College and the University of Texas.

Strategy Research Corporation reports that there are 9.6 million Hispanics concentrated in seven states. More than 1 million of Hispanics live in states such as Arizona, California, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, New York and Texas.