Florida continues to shine as one of the nation’s hottest destinations for growth, with five of the top 10 biggest boomtowns in the country, according to a new LendingTree report. The study evaluated the 100 largest U.S. metros using eight key metrics across three categories: people and housing, work and earnings, and business and economy.
Florida Dominates The Top 10 For Boomtowns
Florida’s dominance in the LendingTree study is undeniable, with five cities in the top 10: Orlando (second), North Port (third), Cape Coral, Lakeland, and Deltona. The South as a whole is thriving, with eight of the top 10 metros hailing from states like Tennessee, South Carolina, and Texas. Austin, Texas, claimed the top spot, but Florida’s strong showing underscores its appeal as a destination for growth.
North Port: Moving Up The Ranks For Biggest Boomtowns
Among these booming Florida cities, North Port stands out as a major success story, ranking third overall nationwide. This is a significant leap from its sixth-place ranking in LendingTree’s previous study. Currently home to 95,000 residents, North Port earned top marks in several areas:
- 2nd in People & Housing
- 4th in Business & Economy
- 26th in Work & Earnings
- The city’s impressive GDP growth of 11.8% and 18.9% influx of new residents (both ranking fifth nationwide) highlight its appeal. Additionally, North Port saw a 6.5% increase in housing units, 5.9% population growth, 15.3% rise in median earnings, and 5.4% growth in workforce.
Florida’s Fastest Growing Cities
LendingTree’s findings reveal that eight of the top 10 boomtowns are in the South, with five located in Florida. The list includes:
- Austin, TX
- Orlando, FL
- North Port, FL
- Cape Coral, FL
- Lakeland, FL
- Deltona, FL
This rapid growth underscores Florida’s draw for new residents, businesses, and real estate development.
Why Florida’s Metros Are Thriving
Florida’s growth isn’t just about sunny weather and beaches. The state’s metros are benefiting from strong economic indicators, including robust GDP growth, population increases, and workforce expansion. Cities like North Port are strategically focusing on commercial development to create jobs and attract new residents, fostering a cycle of sustainable growth. Affordable housing, compared to national trends, also makes Florida an appealing destination for families and businesses relocating from higher-cost areas.
Summary
As North Port and other Florida metros continue to grow, the focus remains on balancing residential expansion with economic development. Stokes emphasized that “the growth is going in the right direction,” with efforts to make North Port a long-term destination for new residents and businesses. With its strong performance in LendingTree’s rankings and ongoing development projects, North Port is poised to remain a key player in Florida’s economic boom.
For those considering a move or investment, Florida’s fastest-growing metros offer a compelling mix of opportunity, affordability, and quality of life. Whether it’s North Port’s rapid expansion or Orlando’s dynamic economy, the Sunshine State is proving it’s more than just a vacation spot—it’s a place to thrive.
Are you thinking about buying real estate in Florida? With real estate agents throughout South Florida as well as in the North Port and Sarasota areas, we can help! Contact Natasha at Live South Florida Realty, Inc. today! Also, be sure to download the free Florida Home Search App for your smartphone or tablet.
