24 Underrated American Towns That Are Growing Fast

The rapid growth in many major cities across the U.S. has led to many opportunities and improved quality of life for its residents. Apart from these cities, many towns in the country are also witnessing growth and attracting new residents through their affordability, opportunities, and close-knit communities. These towns also often offer easy access to nature, less pollution, an improved economy, and a strong job market, attracting many new residents. These are 24 underrated American towns that are growing fast:

Huntertown, Indiana

Huntertown is a small town located in Allen County, Indiana. It has experienced remarkable growth over the past decade. The number of citizens increased from 4,810 in 2010 to 9,141 as of the 2020 census, which means that the town has grown by 90% between these years. New residents are drawn to the town’s unique charm, peaceful rural living, and improved infrastructure like newer subdivisions and wider roads. Huntertown’s amazing development did not stop as recent city figures provided by this source show 11,316 in 2023, with a 0.79% increase from 2022, reflecting another year of growth that will make Huntertown one of northeastern Indiana’s speediest-expanding.

Branson, Missouri

Branson has witnessed consistent growth in recent years. Its population has increased from 10,520 in 2010 to approximately 11,630 in 2020. In addition to demographic expansion, Branson has a growing and diversifying economy with thriving tourism, arts and entertainment, and real estate sectors. The town’s vibrant entertainment scene, with over 40 live performance theaters offering diverse shows, has helped attract residents and strengthen the local economy.

Springfield, Illinois

Springfield has experienced steady growth for several years. Its population rose from 116,250 in 2010 to around 117,000 in 2020, and the economy has improved. The tourism and business industries contribute to a strong job market and create new opportunities for professionals. Healthcare, public administration, retail, manufacturing, and technology have also witnessed growth, contributing to job growth and stability.

Sandusky, Ohio

Sandusky is a small town along Lake Erie in Ohio with modest growth. The town is experiencing growth in its population, job market, and economy. Its population has increased from 25,793 in 2010 to approximately 26,000 in 2020, and the median household income in the city is rising. The town has introduced different programs that incentivize capital investment and job creation, which has helped to improve economic development and overall growth.

Glens Falls, New York

Glens Falls is a small town in Warren County, New York. It has grown steadily, maintaining around 14,700 residents from 2010 to 2020. The median household income has risen, and the strong manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality sectors drive economic growth. The downtown area is also undergoing revitalization, which has helped to improve infrastructure and cultural amenities.

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Atlantic City attracts millions of tourists annually, which plays a vital role in its economic growth. Its iconic boardwalk and casinos drive growth in the tourism industry, and the introduction of new developments, renovation projects, and sustainable initiatives will further drive growth. Atlantic City has also witnessed a growth in its median household income.

Baraboo, Wisconsin

Baraboo is a small town nestled in Sauk County. It has witnessed a growing population, with residents also experiencing a growing median income. The city has introduced different projects to improve economic growth while tourism and commerce continue strengthening the economy and job market. Housing has also increased in Baraboo, with new developments and options available.

Altoona, Pennsylvania

Altoona is located in Pennsylvania’s Blair County. It has seen a slight decline in population, from 46,320 in 2010 to approximately 44,000 in 2020. However, job growth and household median income have increased in the town, benefitting the professionals in Altoona. Outdoor recreation and tourism play an essential role in the town’s growing economy, and the downtown redevelopment has helped attract new businesses and startups.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is the largest city in Alaska’s interior region. Its population has grown from 31,535 in 2010 to approximately 32,500 in 2020. Government, trade, transportation, education, and healthcare significantly contribute to the city’s economy. Residents have also experienced a growing median family income, and job growth has improved. Fairbanks is known for its unique natural phenomena, drawing in visitors seeking to witness the Northern Lights.

Kearney, Nebraska

Kearney is situated in Buffalo County. The town’s population has risen from 30,787 in 2010 to around 33,000 in 2020. It is a regional hub for education and culture and is home to the University of Nebraska at Kearney, which plays a vital role in the town’s job growth. The town has introduced different restoration projects to improve infrastructure. This has helped to attract new businesses and investments, contributing to Kearney’s growth.

Great Falls, Montana

Great Falls has maintained a steady population, with approximately 58,000 residents from 2010 to 2020. The city is also known as “The Electric City” because of its numerous hydroelectric dams along the Missouri River, which play an important role in its economy. The median household income in Great Falls is rising, and economic and job opportunities are emerging in the thriving healthcare, retail trade, and education industries.

Leland, North Carolina

Leland has experienced significant growth over the past decade. The town’s population expanded from 13,527 in 2010 to 22,908 in 2020, a 69% increase. This upward trend continued, with estimates indicating a population of 30,542 by July 2024, reflecting a 30.8% rise since April 2020. The town’s high quality of life, modern amenities, and affordability have significantly driven population growth. The median household income in the town has also increased, and the healthcare, education, and retail industries continue to drive the economy.

Kokomo, Indiana

Kokomo has demonstrated steady growth and resilience over the years. Over the last two decades, the city’s population has been 45,468 in 2010, 59,604 in 2020, and an estimated 59,995 in 2024, which indicates a 0.7% growth. Kokomo has seen a massive inflow of investment from South Korea, due to which the battery plant of StarPlus Energy, a joint venture between Samsung and Stellantis that cost $6.3 billion, had been commissioned. The entertainment and recreation, healthcare and social services, and manufacturing industries have played an essential role in the city’s strong job market. In contrast, the tourism industry has spurred growth in the local economy.

Savannah, Georgia

The steady population increase and the growing job market have been crucial to the growth in Savannah. The tourism, hospitality, manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare industries have created many new opportunities for residents of the city. Investments are also growing in the city, with big companies like Hyundai constructing an electric vehicle plant. This has helped to boost development and attract workers from all over the world. The influx of Korean residents to the city has led to the opening of new Asian grocery stores and Korean churches, leading to cultural diversity and growth.

Boerne, Texas

Boerne has seen rapid population growth in the last decade, from 10,471 in 2010 to approximately 20,000 in 2020. The proximity to San Antonio and Borne’s appeal as a residential community has played a big role in population growth. The median household income has also increased, while the strong biosciences, advanced manufacturing, and agriculture sectors are essential to job growth. This has also helped the city witness a growing economy, contributing to its appeal to new residents.

Buda, Texas

Buda has experienced rapid growth, with its population increasing from 7,295 in 2010 to over 16,000 in 2020. The town’s thriving economy is driven by strong manufacturing, distribution, construction, and retail industries, which contribute to job growth. It is known for its numerous parks and outdoor spaces and good educational system, attracting many new residents drawn to the small-town charm and easy access to urban amenities.

Fredericksburg, Texas

Fredericksburg, founded by German immigrants in 1846, has grown from a population of 10,530 in 2010 to approximately 11,500 in 2020. The strong construction, healthcare, and tourism industries have played an essential role in job growth. The city’s median household income has also grown, making homeownership much more accessible to residents. The city draws in wine enthusiasts from all over the country, who are attracted to its wineries and vineyards and contribute to a growing tourism industry.

Kyle, Texas

Kyle is considered one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. It is between Austin and San Antonio, and its population surged from 28,016 in 2010 to over 45,000 in 2020. Its strategic location, low living costs, new developments, and affordable housing options drive this growth. The city also boasts strong construction, education, healthcare, manufacturing, and distribution industries, which have played a key role in job expansion and provided professionals with ample job opportunities.

New Braunfels, Texas

New Braunfels is a small town in Texas, founded by German settlers. It has experienced significant growth, with its population increasing from 57,740 in 2010 to over 90,000 in 2020, and is expected to continue growing by over 50% by 2030. This growth is driven by many families moving to New Braunfels for its rich history, family-oriented amenities and activities, and proximity to outdoor adventure. The town also has robust manufacturing, distribution, data centers, healthcare, and aviation sectors, contributing to job growth.

San Marcos, Texas

San Marcos is home to Texas State University, the town’s primary source of economic growth. The population has grown from 44,894 in 2010 to approximately 67,000 in 2020. The median household income and developments are also growing in the city, which has helped to attract new residents and create a strong local economy. The presence of Texas State University continues to draw in new residents and create a youthful culture that is appealing to many.

Highlands, North Carolina

Highlands has witnessed growth in terms of its population and its job market. Although population growth fluctuates seasonally, the peak tourist season can include a population growth from 1,000 to 20,000 residents. Tourism also plays a vital role in the town’s economy, creating many opportunities for its residents. The median household income is also increasing, benefitting many professionals in the town.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga has experienced steady growth over the past decade. Its population increased from 167,674 in 2010 to 181,099 in 2020, and the city continues to expand thanks to its affordability, outdoor attractions, and emerging tech industry. It has also witnessed strong job and economic growth, with the manufacturing, healthcare, and automotive industries driving growth. Chattanooga is home to EPB Fiber Optics, one of the fastest internet services in the U.S., which has helped attract remote workers and startups. The revitalization of its downtown, coupled with investments in the arts and business sectors, has made it one of the most desirable mid-sized cities in the South.

Mentone, Alabama

Mentone is a small town nestled on Lookout Mountain. It has become a popular retreat for those looking to escape city life. The town sees an influx of seasonal visitors attracted to its scenic hiking trails, waterfalls, and charming cabins, contributing to the growing local economy. Tourism and real estate development have boomed in recent years, contributing to economic growth. The town has also witnessed a growing median household income and job growth in the construction, healthcare, and transportation industries. The town’s proximity to Chattanooga and Birmingham makes it an attractive weekend getaway.

Helen, Georgia

Helen is a small town with just 531 residents, but it attracts over 1.5 million visitors annually due to its unique Bavarian-inspired architecture and lively festivals. Originally a logging town, Helen reinvented itself in the 1960s to resemble a German alpine village, which proved to be a brilliant economic strategy. Tourism is the backbone of the local economy, with Oktoberfest celebrations, hiking in the nearby Chattahoochee National Forest, and tubing on the Chattahoochee River bringing in visitors year-round. The town has seen a 15% increase in businesses opening over the past decade, leading to more job opportunities and increased home values.

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