North Port has officially been named one of the fastest growing metro areas in the country landing the number three spot in LendingTree’s latest Boomtown Report. Right behind Austin and Orlando North Port continues to attract attention as a rising star in the South.
The report is based on data from 2021 through 2023 and the numbers are eye catching. North Port saw an 11 point 8 percent increase in GDP a 5 point 9 percent jump in population and a 6 point 5 percent rise in housing units. Nearly one in five residents moved to the area from another city state or country making it one of the top relocation destinations nationwide.
Wellen Park played a major role in that momentum. With its mix of lifestyle amenities local businesses community events and walkable neighborhoods it became a hub for new residents and entrepreneurs alike. From concerts on the lawn to bike rides along the trails Wellen Park captured the spirit of what so many were looking for in a fresh start.
So what does it mean to be a boomtown today?
It means North Port has laid a strong foundation. The growth from 2021 to 2023 brought more than numbers. It brought schools parks roads and businesses that are here to stay. Wellen Park is still growing and still vibrant but the focus now is on resilience balance and long term success.
The economic energy is still here but the pace has shifted. Higher interest rates rising insurance costs and concerns around affordability have cooled the housing market. Builders are adjusting their plans families are being more cautious and small businesses are navigating a landscape that is no longer booming at full speed.
This is a new chapter. One where smart development thoughtful business growth and community support matter more than ever. North Port is still on the map and Wellen Park is still a standout. The difference is that we are building for stability not just speed.
The boomtown title is more than a headline. It is a reflection of where we have been and a reminder to stay engaged as we shape what comes
About the Boomtown Report
This brand-new Boomtown Report was published by LendingTree in July 7th 2025, but it reflects growth based on the most recent finalized data available — covering 2021 through 2023. That means the ranking is up to date, but the numbers behind it describe how each city performed leading into 2024.
In the previous version of the report, North Port ranked sixth overall. In this newly released edition, it has climbed to number three a major jump that confirms just how much energy and momentum the region carried into the current decade.
Source: LendingTree study below https://www.lendingtree.com/business/small/biggest-boomtowns-study
