The American South is experiencing a significant surge in population growth, as indicated by recent data released by the US Census Bureau. States such as Texas, Georgia, and South Carolina are witnessing a boom in population, driving major economic growth in the region. In 2023, counties in the South exhibited a higher average population growth rate compared to other regions, with a notable increase from the previous year.
According to the Census data, around two-thirds of the South's 1,422 counties saw population growth in 2023, a substantial rise from the previous year. The average annual change in population for the region was 0.56%, showcasing a significant acceleration from 2022. In contrast, the West experienced a slowdown in population growth among counties, while the Midwest and Northeast observed an uptick in their growth rates.
Texas emerged as a standout performer in terms of population growth, with six of the top 10 fastest-growing counties with populations exceeding 20,000 located in the state. Booming economies and attractive job opportunities in cities like Houston, Dallas, and Nashville are drawing individuals to the region. The South's appeal also lies in its more affordable housing options and lower cost of living compared to many large coastal cities.
The South's resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic is evident, as it remained the only region to sustain population growth throughout the crisis. Nearly half of the US population growth since 1960 has occurred in the South, attributed to factors such as a high birth rate and significant domestic and international migration.
Metro-level data further underscores the South's growth trajectory, with Florida's metro areas exemplifying the widespread population increase across the region. The South has emerged as the nation's fastest-growing region, with all of the top 10 fastest-growing US metro areas from 2022 to 2023 located in the South.
As the trend shows no signs of slowing down, the South continues to attract interest, with seven of the top 10 cities searched by Redfin.com users situated in the region. The South's ongoing growth presents a compelling narrative of prosperity and opportunity for both residents and newcomers alike.
