According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more and more people are choosing to avoid the cold, nasty weather of the north in favor of more tepid southern and western destinations. Of the top 10 cities with the most increased populations, eight of them have warmer climates. Here are 10 cities where population is booming.
Frisco, Texas
Frisco, Texas, is located just to the north of Dallas and is part of the Dallas–Fort Worth metro area. In the past year alone, almost 11,000 people moved to the city. Since it’s also the smallest city on this list, it also means that it has the highest percentage of growth. People are flocking to Frisco for its big city amenities with a small town feel.
Denver, Colorado
In the past year, 11,053 people moved to Denver. The natural attractions that surround the city have always been a draw for outdoor enthusiasts, but more recently, it's Denver’s economy that is calling to young professionals. For those interested in a taste of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, you can’t go wrong with Denver.
San Diego, California
California has always been attractive to people looking to avoid cold weather. Just about every day is warm and sunny. Who can complain? Last year, 11,549 people moved to San Diego. It has all the beaches, arts, food and jobs of other major cities in California at a fraction of the cost.
Jacksonville, Florida
If you’re looking for warm weather and sunny skies but don’t want to go to the West Coast, maybe Jacksonville, Florida, is the spot for you. Just over 12,000 people moved to Jacksonville last year, giving it the seventh largest population increase of any city in the U.S. The city offers a low cost of living compared to other major cities and is the one of the largest cities by area in the States.
Austin, Texas
When it comes to ranking cities based on population growth, Austin, Texas, has made the list for the last few years. With a steadily rising economy, the availability of jobs, an incredible music scene, and a relatively low cost of living, it’s no wonder that people are flocking to Austin. In 2018 alone, 12,504 new residents moved to the city.
Charlotte, North Carolina
It’s estimated that 60 people move to Charlotte every day, and, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, 13,151 people relocated here in 2018. People are flocking to this city for the jobs and nearly unmatched housing affordability.
Seattle, Washington
With a growth of over 15,000 people annually, Seattle has become one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S. Much of the growth is due to the many tech companies that have sprung up here, especially Amazon. Seattle also has a vibrant artistic culture that appeals to young creatives. Seattle is growing very fast.
Fort Worth, Texas
Just to the west of Dallas sits its smaller (for now) neighbor Fort Worth. While Dallas still boasts the larger population, Fort Worth has been growing at a much faster pace and may soon become the larger of the two. Last year, almost 20,000 people moved to Fort Worth. People love this city because of its affordability and availability of jobs. It keeps its small town feel but has all the perks of a major city.
San Antonio, Texas
Texas cities are enjoying higher-than-average growth because they offer wonderfully warm weather almost year-round and have no state income tax, which helps with the cost of living. San Antonio is a particular favorite because of its history, culture, affordability, and job availability. If you’re looking for the Texas life, it’s 13% less expensive to live in San Antonio than Dallas. That’s why almost 21,000 people moved to the Alamo city in 2018 alone.
Phoenix, Arizona
Low cost of living, tons of jobs, growing infrastructure, and, of course, year-round warm weather. What’s not to like? Add in the wide variety of dining and nightlife and you’ll understand why Phoenix, Arizona, had the largest population increase of any U.S. city in the last census. In 2018, 25,288 people moved to the desert in search of a new life. The city is especially attractive to millennials looking for housing affordability and low cost of living.