The Fastest-Growing Places in the U.S. in 2024-2025 | Real Estate

Where are people moving? One of the best indicators for examining what makes a place highly desirable is whether it’s seeing significant population growth. When calculating the Best Places to Live, U.S. News factors in each city’s growth due to net migration, which is part of the larger desirability score.

Places seeing the most growth attract new residents for many reasons, including a hot job market, affordable housing, a desirable location or some other factor. For the 2024-2025 rankings, we used the U.S. Census Bureau’s net migration data from 2021 to 2022, the most recent complete data set at the time of our calculations.

Read on for the 25 cities – out of 150 major U.S. cities – that have grown most over this period.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 67
Population: 1,609,590
Median Age: 36
Median Home Price: $341,740
Median Household Income: $81,277
Net Migration: 2.83%

If your daily dose of vitamin D is a top priority, look no further than Phoenix. Dubbed the Valley of the Sun, Phoenix receives more sunlight than almost any of the 150 major U.S. cities in the Best Places to Live rankings – it’s tied with another Arizona city, Tucson, at 310 days per year. Its desert climate, mountainous surroundings and rich history contribute to an increase in population of 2.83% due to net migration between 2021 and 2022.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 123
Population: 461,672
Median Age: 41
Median Home Price: $448,531
Median Household Income: $64,587
Net Migration: 2.84%

Miami’s beautiful beaches, warm climate and club scene have made this city an iconic vacation spot. So much so that folks are starting to move there: The population rose by 2.84% due to net migration between 2021 and 2022. In spite of its notoriety as an “anything goes” party town, Miami’s population tends to skew a bit older, with a median age of 41. Nonetheless, if it’s nightlife you want, you will find it and more as a resident of the Magic City. Many other Florida cities are experiencing rapid population growth, as there are 10 more Sunshine State cities on this list growing even faster than Miami.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 2
Population: 277,498
Median Age: 39
Median Home Price: $422,080
Median Household Income: $85,886
Net Migration: 2.86%

Positioned among snowy mountains, rivers, lakes and canyons, Boise is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. In the summer, hikers have access to more than 180 trails, and in the winter, skiers and snowboarders enjoy prime terrain. Its proximity to all elements of nature has made Boise a popular spot in recent years, with a 2.86% increase in population due to net migration between 2021 and 2022.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 40
Population: 755,412
Median Age: 37
Median Home Price: $565,720
Median Household Income: $97,799
Net Migration: 2.87%

At an elevation of 5,279 feet, Denver is home to a community of devout skiers and snowboarders, as well as a budding cannabis industry. The Mile High City also boasts an abundance of breweries and live music, as well as a proximity to the Rockies that attracts thrill-seekers and nature-lovers of all ages. Between 2021 and 2022, Denver’s population increased by 2.87% due to net migration.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 13
Population: 175,795
Median Age: 39
Median Home Price: $510,515
Median Household Income: $92,032
Net Migration: 2.95%

Streets lined with colorful buildings, Spanish moss, oak trees and cobblestone roads make Charleston the epitome of Southern charm. Rich in history, natural wonders and fine dining, the Holy City has started to grow in resident population, increasing by 2.95% due to net migration between 2021 and 2022. It’s also home to the College of Charleston, which gives the city’s nightlife a little pep in its step.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 16
Population: 681,446
Median Age: 36
Median Home Price: $199,303
Median Household Income: $74,604
Net Migration: 3.06%

Oklahoma City is the perfect place to live out your cowboy dreams while saving on cost of living – it’s No. 10 on our list of Most Affordable Places to Live. This up-and-coming-town celebrates its Western heritage through festivals, horse shows and an abundance of leather-scented shops. Though still home to the world’s largest stocker-feeder cattle market, an influx of younger residents has given the city a more vibrant, progressive feel, with a 3.06% increase in population due to net migration between 2021 and 2022.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 9
Population: 1,002,397
Median Age: 36
Median Home Price: $487,981
Median Household Income: $98,483
Net Migration: 3.11%

The live music capital of the world is the perfect city for the quirky, artistic and unconventional – after all, the city’s slogan is “Keep Austin Weird,” a sentiment that residents hold very close. A thriving arts scene is not the only thing going for Austin: It has become a hot spot for young professionals. For more than a decade, an increasing number of tech companies has established offices or headquarters in this Texas city, solidifying the area as a hub for the technology industry on par with Silicon Valley, Seattle and other major tech cities. Between 2021 and 2021, the population increased by 3.11% due to net migration.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 80
Population: 163,774
Median Age: 41
Median Home Price: $204,765
Median Household Income: $65,531
Net Migration: 3.19%

With its natural parks, sprawling public golf courses and placement between Orlando and Tampa, it’s not difficult to mistake Lakeland for a large resort. But make no mistake – Lakeland is a family-friendly small town where neighbors know one another, and there’s plenty of hiking and outdoor adventures in its parks and preserves. Folks have started to recognize its natural beauty and prime location, as the town has seen a 3.19% increase in population due to net migration between 2021 and 2022.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 137
Population: $48,333
Median Age: 37
Median Home Price: $106,688
Median Household Income: $47,487
Net Migration: 3.34%

History buffs will find paradise in York, a small Pennsylvania town best known as the birthplace of the Articles of Confederation. Once home to the Continental Congress (and even the U.S. capital for a brief period of time), York boasts a quaint downtown with Colonial-era buildings, a flourishing arts scene and the famous Central Market farmers market. Between 2021 and 2022, the population increased by 3.34% due to net migration.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 7
Population: 237,887
Median Age: 40
Median Home Price: $245,381
Median Household Income: $83,856
Net Migration: 3.35%

Once upon a time, there was a quiet, sleepy farming town called Huntsville – then, in the 1960s, the U.S. government designated it as the spot for a new NASA center, relocating a team of rocket scientists that would go on to design the Saturn V, which sent the Apollo astronauts to the moon. Now, the Rocket City is full of self-proclaimed nerds, and its downtown is experiencing a renaissance. Its population is growing just as fast as its bustling cultural scene, with a 3.35% increase between 2021 and 2022 due to net migration.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 87
Population: 201,134
Median Age: 32
Median Home Price: $112,823
Median Household Income: $53,014
Net Migration: 3.49%

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 21
Population: 113,010
Median Age: 33
Median Home Price: $281,646
Median Household Income: $70,165
Net Migration: 3.54%

If a strong sense of community is important to you, consider Fayetteville – a town known for its friendly residents and community-oriented events. Located in the growing region of Northwest Arkansas, Fayetteville offers a slew of job opportunities, as well as a prime location in the Ozark Mountains. Fayetteville maintains a low cost of living despite significant growth. Between 2021 and 2022, Fayetteville saw a 3.54% increase in population due to net migration.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 35
Population: 515,872
Median Age: 37
Median Home Price: $358,489
Median Household Income: $81,303
Net Migration: 3.58%

This Gulf Coast city is home to warm weather, diverse communities and an impressive burgeoning food-and-drink scene, so naturally, it’s growing fast. The proximity to the beach doesn’t hurt, either; with both Clearwater and St. Petersburg a short drive away, living in Tampa can feel like being on a permanent vacation. Residents enjoy both a laid-back beach lifestyle and big-city amenities, including professional sports teams, museums and an array of entertainment options. This is why between 2021 and 2022, the city’s population increased by 3.58% due to net migration.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 1
Population: 122,578
Median Age: 53
Median Home Price: $577,796
Median Household Income: $98,120
Net Migration: 3.63%

Naples has a reputation as a playground for wealthy retirees and snowbirds, and with its pristine beaches, golf courses, fine dining and high-end shopping, it’s easy to see why. Although it’s pricey and often congested during the winter months, it retains a unique Floridian charm that continues to attract residents – particularly those on the higher end of the age spectrum. Naples receives a high score for its desirability and takes the top spot in the overall Best Places to Live rankings. Between 2021 and 2022, Naples’ population increased by 3.63% due to net migration.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 51
Population: 54,075
Median Age: 46
Median Home Price: $289,054
Median Household Income: $57,807
Net Migration: 3.75%

This coastal South Carolina city is usually associated with tourism, but its never-ending list of things to do brings visitors back for good. There’s an array of attractions suitable for every age group, even in the far less crowded offseason. Between 2021 and 2022, Myrtle Beach’s resident population increased by 3.75% due to net migration.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 11
Population: 82,472
Median Age: 52
Median Home Price: $430,652
Median Household Income: $80,922
Net Migration: 3.96%

With a vibrant arts scene, burgeoning food-and-drink culture and miles of beautiful beaches, it’s no surprise that people are flocking to Sarasota. With a median age of 52, Sarasota is an attractive destination for retirees, landing at No. 18 on the Best Places to Retire ranking for 2024-2025. Sarasota grew by an impressive 3.96% between 2021 and 2022 due to net migration.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 68
Population: 413,687
Median Age: 36
Median Home Price: $312,171
Median Household Income: $75,028
Net Migration: 3.98%

Most people know Orlando as home to some of the world’s top theme parks, but the city has a lot more to offer its residents than roller coaster rides. As the seat of Orange County, Orlando is a thriving city with a bustling downtown and beautiful green spaces. Visitors are catching on to the attraction of living there, as the population increased by 3.98% due to net migration between 2021 and 2022.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 47
Population: 291,754
Median Age: 40
Median Home Price: $466,620
Median Household Income: $89,396
Net Migration: 4.16%

Much like its notorious neighbor, Reno is well known for its gaming industry, However, for those looking to make a move to Nevada, Reno is by far the friendlier option. Tourism still reigns, but residents enjoy a variety of cultural events, restaurants and outdoor activities. America’s Biggest Little City saw a 4.16% increase in population due to net migration between 2021 and 2022.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 125
Population: 240,582
Median Age: 35
Median Home Price: $216,598
Median Household Income: $56,484
Net Migration: 4.6%

The home of Louisiana State University is growing in popularity for residents, likely due to its competitive job market in engineering and health care and its location relative to the Mississippi River. Culturally, Baton Rouge is similar to New Orleans without all the tourism and big city-isms, so it’s understandable that it has become an attractive place to settle down. Between 2021 and 2022, Baton Rouge saw a 4.6% increase in population due to net migration.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 78
Population: 134,974
Median Age: 47
Median Home Price: $214,282
Median Household Income: $60,352
Net Migration: 4.7%

With its rolling hills and green pastures, humans and horses alike find themselves happy in Ocala. Dubbed the Horse Capital of the World, equestrian culture runs deep here, even in the urban city center, which is home to a vibrant downtown. This inland city is surrounded by beautiful nature reserves that are home to some of Florida’s most iconic fauna. Ocala grew by 4.7% due to net migration alone between 2021 and 2022.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 75
Population: 239,292
Median Age: 35
Median Home Price: $236,847
Median Household Income: $69,655
Net Migration: 4.75%

South of the Georgia border, in the Red Hills region, there’s a different kind of Florida, one that is far from the ocean and lined with oak trees – this is where Tallahassee is located. Home to Florida A&M University, Florida State University and Tallahassee Community College, this state capital has continued to grow as a culturally significant city, with a 4.75% increase in population due to net migration between 2021 and 2022. It’s also close to natural spots like forests, lakes and rivers, and isn’t too far from the beach for a day trip.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 96
Population: 83,623
Median Age: 43
Median Home Price: $199,838
Median Household Income: $52,973
Net Migration: 4.92%

Daytona Beach’s population increases and decreases with the seasons, as snowbirds flock there for the winter months and leave once the temperature soars. Between 2021 and 2022, however, it was on the up and up, increasing in population by a whopping 4.92% due to net migration. However, there’s plenty to keep year-round residents entertained indoors during those summer months, like museums, theaters, antique markets, malls and more. The coastal city attracts plenty of tourists to NASCAR races and local beaches, but many of these visitors also appear happy enough to make the place their next hometown.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 83
Population: 220,637
Median Age: 46
Median Home Price: $293,943
Median Household Income: $75,874
Net Migration: 4.93%

The laid-back atmosphere of Port St. Lucie is perfect for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of nearby cities, like Orlando and Miami, without giving up their location on Florida’s Treasure Coast. Quiet streets, lush greenery and scenic waterways await those moving to the area, which saw a 4.93% increase in population due to net migration between 2021 and 2022.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 107
Population: 167, 318
Median Age: 31
Median Home Price: $161,449
Median Household Income: $63,862
Net Migration: 6.57%

Killeen, in the heart of Texas, is steeped in military culture, with flags and historical landmarks appearing throughout the city. Home to Fort Cavazos, one of the largest military bases in the country, Killeen provides military families and other residents with an affordable cost of living and a host of public parks, pools and other outdoor amenities for the kids. Its population increased by 6.57% from net migration between 2021 and 2022.

Best Places 2024-2025 Rank: 37
Population: 109,595
Median Age: 45
Median Home Price: $273,214
Median Household Income: $71,154
Net Migration: 6.73%

Fort Myers is the fastest-growing of the 150 major cities in this year’s analysis, seeing a population increase of 6.73% between 2021 and 2022 due to net migration. Year-round warmth, uniquely Floridian flora and waterways surround the City of Palms. This coastal city is home to a vibrant downtown and outdoor activities like hiking, paddling, boating, fishing and much more. It also enjoys close proximity to the beautiful sandy beaches of Sanibel Island and Fort Myers Beach.