According to data released by the U.S. Census Bureau today, Florida is now the fastest-growing state in the union and surpassed New York’s population to take third place. Moreover, Florida accounts for six of the nation’s twenty fastest-growing metropolitan areas, with The Villages in the top spot for the second year in row. It’s clear that the balmy weather, beaches and palm trees of the Sunshine State are winning hearts and minds across America. Great news for singles who call Florida home!
Aside from The Villages, Florida boasts rapid growth in Cape Coral (#6), Naples (#10), Orlando (#16), North Port (#18) and Panama City (#19). In addition, seven of Florida’s metropolitan areas are included among the top 50 numerically gaining in America, such as Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, Jacksonville, Cape Coral-Fort Myers, North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton and Lakeland-Winter Haven. Estimates for this unprecedented growth cover the period from July 2013 to July 2014 and indicate a total increase just shy of 300K.
What does this all mean? While the greatest population growth comes from areas known primarily for retirement communities, the data also includes substantial numbers of new residents across all age groups. In other words, Florida may be one of the best places to find your significant other today and for the foreseeable future. Keep your eyes peeled!