Top 10 Cities Forecasted to Lead Population Growth in 2024

Population growth is one of the strongest leading indicators for commercial real estate demand. These ten metropolitan areas are forecasted to see substantial increases, driven by favorable economic conditions, ample job opportunities, and attractive living standards.

The Top 10

1. Fort Worth, TX — Tech and manufacturing sectors combined with family-friendly amenities continue drawing new residents to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

2. Phoenix, AZ — Technology and healthcare industries support rapid expansion alongside relatively affordable living costs compared to coastal markets.

3. San Antonio, TX — Rich cultural heritage paired with military, healthcare, and financial services sectors make San Antonio a magnet for growth.

4. Seattle, WA — Tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft anchor employment, keeping the Pacific Northwest a top destination.

5. Charlotte, NC — A major banking center with an emerging tech scene and housing costs well below Northeast equivalents.

6. Jacksonville, FL — Florida’s largest city by area benefits from its commercial port, aviation industries, and no state income tax.

7. Port St. Lucie, FL — Lower cost of living attracts retirees and healthcare workers to the Treasure Coast.

8. Cape Coral, FL — Waterfront living and real estate development opportunities draw residents from more expensive Florida markets.

9. Houston, TX — Energy, aerospace, manufacturing, and healthcare create one of the most diversified economies in the country.

10. Georgetown, TX — Small-town charm north of Austin with significant economic potential as the Austin metro expands.

What This Means for Gas Station Investors

Four of the top ten cities are in Florida, and five are in Texas — both states with no income tax and strong net lease gas station markets. Population growth drives traffic counts, which drives fuel volume, which drives gas station valuations. Investors targeting NNN fuel retail assets should be paying close attention to these corridors.