15 Biggest American Real Estate Boomtowns Post-Pandemic
The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered the landscape of work, life, and especially where Americans choose to live. With the shift to remote work, the demand for homes conducive to both living and working prompted an exodus to cities that offer affordability and space. This migration led to the emergence of new boomtowns—cities experiencing rapid growth due to increased demand and consequently rising home prices. While some initial boomtowns have seen their growth stabilize, others have surged in popularity, reshaping the real estate market in the wake of the pandemic.
A “boomtown” is often characterized by its rapid population growth and escalating real estate demand, with prices skyrocketing in response. Notably, the current real estate trends signify a departure from pre-pandemic patterns, with significant growth now occurring in exurbs—outlying districts of larger metro areas that blend urban and rural elements.
This shift aligns with broader demographic changes, as highlighted by the U.S. Census Bureau’s reports. Southern cities, particularly those in the Sunbelt, have emerged as leaders in population growth, indicative of a wider trend towards these warmer locales. However, the nature of growth has evolved, focusing more on areas distant from traditional urban centers and moving towards the exurbs, signaling a preference for less dense living environments while still staying connected to metropolitan regions.
Following the Census Bureau’s analysis of population growth from July 2021 to July 2022, it’s clear that certain cities have firmly established themselves as the new epicenters of growth and opportunity. Here are the 15 cities that have seen the most significant increase in numbers during this period:
Among these booming communities, three cities—Fort Worth, Henderson, and Charlotte—have not only witnessed substantial numeric growth but have also featured prominently in terms of the rate of population increase. These cities, alongside Atlanta, Georgia, and Raleigh, North Carolina, have been highlighted for their exceptional growth rates from 2022 to 2023, as noted by Axios. This growth reflects a broader trend towards expanding beyond traditional urban centers into areas that offer a better balance of affordability, space, and quality of life.
The rejuvenation and expansion of these boomtowns underscore a significant shift in American living and working patterns. As remote work becomes more entrenched, it’s likely that the appeal of exurbs and cities that offer more space and a lower cost of living will continue to rise. The post-pandemic landscape has indeed redefined what many seek in community, comfort, and convenience, setting a new blueprint for the future of American urbanization.
As we look ahead, the dynamics of real estate and population growth are set to continue evolving. These 15 cities, with their booming populations and expanding infrastructures, represent the forefront of this change. They embody the search for a better lifestyle that the pandemic has spurred, charting a new course for others to potentially follow.
