According to a U.S. Census Bureau report released this week, Florida is home to 4 of the Top 5 fastest growing metropolitan statistical areas in the nation.
The rankings are based on the percentage of growth in population that each area experienced between July 1, 2022 and July 1, 2023.
Here are the top 4 fastest growing areas in Florida:
#4: Port St. Lucie
The 5th fastest growing metro areas in the nation and #4 in Florida, Port St. Lucie is home to a growing number of 55+ communities.
The population here grew by 3.1% to 536,901.
Where to retire in Port St. Lucie:
A new chapter of exceptional 55+ living has arrived at Riverland for 55+ in Port St. Lucie, Florida with the grand opening of Valencia Vista! This highly anticipated community introduces an all-new collection of thoughtfully designed homes, including the innovative Club Villas, along with spacious new floorplans featuring open-concept living, flexible spaces, designer kitchens, and enhanced standard features such as upgraded 42″ upper cabinetry, quartz countertops throughout, and expansive kitchen islands that make it easier than ever to create your dream home.
Residents will also enjoy an expanded Social Club with over 54,000 total sq. ft. of resort-style amenities, including a full-service restaurant and bar, resort-style pools, vibrant social spaces, and year-round events curated by a full-time Lifestyle Director. Beyond the clubhouse, Riverland’s extraordinary 4,000-acre master-planned community gives homeowners access from day one to more than 80 outdoor sports courts, a 51,000 sq. ft. Wellness & Fitness Center, a 5-acre Arts & Culture Center, miles of scenic Paseo greenways, parks, and countless opportunities to stay active, social, and inspired every day. Learn more about Valencia Vista at Riverland with homes starting from the mid $300s today and start living the best 55+ Florida lifestyle!
Telaro at Tradition is Mattamy Homes' debut 55+ Active Adult neighborhood in the extraordinary master-planned community of Tradition. This highly anticipated enclave of 400+ homesites will feature elegant and contemporary villas and single-family homes ranging from 1,370 sq. ft. to 2,800 sq. ft.
The exclusive Telaro lifestyle offers resort-style perks with the comforts of low-maintenance living. Telaro will include an abundant amenity offering, planned social spaces, lifestyle programming, and convenient access to all that the sprawling community of Tradition has to offer. With just a short drive, residents are right down the road from Tradition’s Town Square, featuring a variety of shopping, dining and community activities. Starting from the $300k’s, Telaro offers 12 unique floor plans to suit your needs.
#3: Ocala
Myrtle Beach, SC claimed the #3 spot in the nation, but after that, Ocala took the 3rd spot in Florida by growing 3.4% to 409,959.
Located just north of The Villages, Ocala is known around the world for being the ultimate destination for horse lovers, and it also attracts a large percentage of incoming Florida retirees.
Where to retire in Ocala:
At On Top of the World Communities, active adults will find all they dream about and so much more. Located in beautiful Ocala Florida, On Top of the World residents can enjoy any schedule that suits their tastes – from activity-packed to unhurried.
Amenities include 54 holes of golf on three courses, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, a 14-acre R/C flying field, bocce, racquetball and basketball courts, fitness center, health club and spa, restaurants, cultural venues, and much more. Residents can also participate in over 175 clubs, leagues, hobbies, and lifelong learning opportunities.
There are around 20 different floor plans available with prices ranging to suit every budget starting in the $200k's.
#2: Winter Haven – Lakeland
This area is located roughly halfway between Tampa and Orlando, and it could be a great fit for those wanting to be within an hour drive of either of those bigger cities.
According to the Census Bureau report this area grew by 4% and is now home to 818,330 people.
#1: The Villages
The Villages is the biggest retirement community in the country and if you've been a reader here for any length of time, seeing them at #1 on this list should come as no surprise.
The Villages is the fastest-selling community in the country (retirement or otherwise!) almost every year and according to the Census Bureau, the population here rose 5% to 151,565.
Located about an hour north of Orlando, people are attracted to The Villages because of its many golf courses, activities, amenities, and the convenience of having almost everything be golf cart accessible.
I have a weekly email newsletter that goes out every Saturday that covers everything going on in The Villages, and you can subscribe to that right here:
You can read the full Census Bureau report here.
Leave a Reply