TAMPA, Fla. (WLFA) — Three Tampa Bay area cities were ranked among the fastest-growing cities in the nation, according to the U.S.
News and World Report. Sarasota (10), Tampa (13), and Lakeland (18) all ranked among the list of 25 cities showing the most growth, the report said. The list uses the U.
S. Census Bureau’s net migration data from 2021 to 2022. In addition to net migration, the list also looks at median age, median home prices, median household income, and total population.
The first Tampa Bay area city to appear on the list, Lakeland was described as a “family-friendly small town.” “With its natural parks, sprawling public golf courses and placement between Orlando and Tampa , it’s not difficult to mistake Lakeland for a large resort,” the U.S.
News and World Report wrote. The city’s net migration has risen by 3.19%, leading to an overall population of 163,774.
Lakeland, which has a median age of 41, was ranked 22nd on the list of best places to retire in 2024-2025. Tampa came in five spots higher, with its proximity to the beach and burgeoning “food-and-drink scene” getting credit for its growth. “Residents enjoy both a laid-back beach lifestyle and big-city amenities, including professional sports teams, museums and an array of entertainment options,” the report wrote.
Tampa, which also ranked 35th on the U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Places” rankings, saw a 3.
58% net migration with a 515,872 population. The Belle of the Tampa B.