A recent analysis by The Real Deal, based on U.S. Census Bureau data, indicates that Floridian cities, especially in the central region, have experienced the most significant population growth in the U.S. over the past five years (2020-2024), despite rising home prices. Wildwood, Florida, led the nation with a 19.2% population surge during this period.
Six of the top 10 metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) with the highest population increases are in Florida, including Lakeland-Winter Haven, Ocala, Port St. Lucie, Punta Gorda, and Cape Coral-Fort Myers. All top 10 growth areas are in the South, with the exception of St. George, Utah.
While Wildwood experienced the most growth overall, its growth rate is slowing. Ocala showed the highest year-over-year growth from 2023 to 2024 at 4%.
Conversely, Louisiana MSAs, specifically Lake Charles and New Orleans-Metairie, saw the largest population declines from 2020 to 2024. Major metropolitan areas like New York City experienced a slight population drop during the pandemic but an overall year-over-year increase, while Los Angeles saw a decline in its population over the past five years.
Commercial Properties for Sale & Lease in Ocala, Florida
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