TOP 25
NO. 1
Wilmington, NC
The charm of this historic port on the Atlantic Ocean and the Cape Fear River has made it a favorite filming location for movies and TV shows, earning it the nicknames Hollywood East and Wilmywood. Over the past few years, the population has increased, and a study by United Van Lines found it was the top place to move in 2022. Lodging options range from an outcropping of rentable houseboats to the anticipated Hotel Lela Wilmington (which is opening soon) and the beautifully renovated Arrive Wilmington.
NO. 2
Franklin, TN
No longer just a weekend getaway from the bustling Music City, Franklin has fully come into its own. The population continues to rise, with new residents citing the thriving downtown as one of the many reasons to relocate. It comprises 16 blocks of preserved and restored buildings such as The Franklin Theatre as well as a host of locally owned stores and eateries.
NO. 3
Spartanburg, SC
After Spartanburg came in 12th on the list of fastest- growing places in 2023 by U.S. News & World Report, the city council released their new Comprehensive Plan, which outlines how they can further their success. There are several things to look for in the spring of 2025, including a state-of-the-art stadium to welcome a Minor League Baseball team plus a 16-acre mixed-use plaza.
NO. 4
Huntsville, AL
Rocket City is on a roll. Now bigger than Birmingham and Montgomery, it offers so much to love. Case in point: The Orion Amphitheater, a world-class music venue and entertainment destination, held its first concert in the spring of 2022. And this past August, Huntsville was named the best place for families to live by U.S. News & World Report. The latest project in the works is Front Row Huntsville, an 11-acre, $325 million development that will have a boutique hotel, shops, and public gathering spaces.
NO. 5
Columbia, SC
Home to the University of South Carolina, the largest college in the state, the capital experiences an influx of energy as students arrive on campus each year. In 2023, investments in the area surged to over $2 billion. Plans for 2024 and beyond include a major renovation of the Blossom Street Bridge to make it pedestrian friendly as well as fostering the momentum in the West Columbia neighborhood.
NO. 6
New Braunfels, TX
Those who are seeking a slower pace in the Texas Hill Country have flocked to New Braunfels, a city that wears its natural wonders and European influences proudly. The Comal and Guadalupe Rivers wind through town, and the Gruene Historic District features German architecture dating back to the 19th century. During the 2010s, the population nearly doubled. This has brought in many new businesses and jobs, so you can bet its distinctive blend of past and present still resonates.
NO. 7
Bowling Green, KY
Thanks to Western Kentucky University, this area has been able to attract students, residents, and even international companies. AESC, a Japanese manufacturer of electric- vehicle batteries, is set to open a $2 billion factory here in 2025. The riverfront also has a few changes on the horizon, namely a new hotel, a brewery, and an outdoor adventure park.
LISA CORSON
by LISA CERICOLA, TARA MASSOULEH MCCAY, and CAROLINE ROGERS
NO. 8
Cary, NC
The Triangle’s knack for innovation seems to have rubbed off on this once-small suburb. With a robust arts- and-culture scene, excellent dining options, and an ever- growing downtown, it has become a worthy stand-alone destination. The recently completed 7-acre Downtown Cary Park now provides a central gathering space, further adding to the many reasons why Livability named this one of the best places to reside in 2023.
NO. 9
Alpharetta, GA
For years, this town has made regular appearances on lists of hot spots in the South, and it’s just getting started. The revamped down- town district, known as the Alpharetta City Center, has become a walkable, family- friendly hub surrounding a large lawn. The always-busy Avalon development—with a movie theater and more than 500,000 square feet of retail space—is also nearby. Although it is part of Atlanta’s metro area, this city has a personality all its own.
NO. 10
Bentonville, AR
Often referred to as “the town that Walmart built,” this gem is riding a strong rising tide. It has become a veritable cultural nexus that celebrates art in all its forms thanks to the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and The Momentary. An expanding culinary landscape has fostered Onyx Coffee Lab and restaurants like The Hive and Conifer.
NO. 11
Covington, LA
Known as “the Northshore’s best-kept secret,” Covington is just getting better and better. Over the past few years, it has been a magnet for new businesses and residents, and the 2030 Comprehensive Plan aims to keep that intense momentum going while also preserving its small-town feel.
NO. 12
Gulfport, MS
Located on the Gulf of Mexico, this city has always beckoned visitors with the siren song of sandy beaches and calm waters. But these coastal attractions aren’t the only things contributing to its tourism-driven economy. There is also a forthcoming downtown development that’s slated to accommodate 200 apartments, a boutique hotel, and a district for fledgling businesses.
NO. 13
Palm Bay, FL
Both the saltwater fishing and the stretches of gorgeous unspoiled nature have done their parts to bolster the popularity of this sleepy Space Coast town, but exciting things are on the way. A major project called Ashton Park is expected to add thousands of homes and more than 5 million square feet of retail and commercial areas.
NO. 14
Oklahoma City, OK
Experience everything from classic cowboy culture to cutting-edge museums. A stroll through the city’s Paseo Arts District reveals bohemian galleries housed in colorful Spanish Revival architecture. The legendary town is also home to one of the country’s highest concentrations of Route 66 landmarks, such as the Will Rogers Theatre, Cheever’s Cafe, and the historic Lake Overholser Bridge.
NO. 15
Georgetown, TX
For the second year in a row, census data has shown that Georgetown is America’s fastest-growing city (measured by the population percentage change). When asked their reasons for moving here, people often tout the quaint town square; the proximity to nearby Southwestern University; and the abundance of natural wonders like the San Gabriel River, Blue Hole Park, and Inner Space Cavern (inside of which you will find hundreds of fascinating stalactite formations).
NO. 16
Frederick, MD
Around 12,000 new residents relocated to Frederick between 2010 and 2020, making it one of the most rapidly evolving areas in its region. This continued growth means there are several highly anticipated openings in store, including the Visitation Hotel Frederick, True Standard Distilling Company, and a center for the African American Resources Cultural and Heritage Society.
NO. 17
Gainesville, GA
While Gainesville has long been Georgia’s beloved resort destination, Lake Lanier’s sprawling size (38,000 acres) is just one of its many draws. Beyond its boutiques and eateries, the city has a 2040 Comprehensive Plan that prioritizes affordable housing, environmental-resources management, historic preservation, and increased employment opportunities.
ROBBIE CAPONETTO
NO. 18
Clarksville, TN
For two years in a row, Clarksville has come out on top among Tennessee cities when measured in terms of population growth. It is shoring up its offerings for tourists and locals alike while also making room for new businesses to succeed, including The Emerald (an events venue), the second outpost of the Three Rifles Distilling Co., the F&M Bank Arena, several different lodging options, and an assortment of restaurants.
NO. 19
Hattiesburg, MS
Dubbed the Hub City due to its location at a crossroads of major rail lines and highways, this southern Mississippi town was long stuck with the reputation as a stopover. However, in the past few years, it has finally put that old misconception to rest. There’s a strong showing of creative energy from two area universities, unique local businesses, and a bustling downtown district.
NO. 20
Morgantown, WV
Perennially recognized as a thriving spot in West Virginia, Morgantown has built a vibrant community along the Monongahela River, the shores of which are lined with scenic parks. You’ll find West Virginia University here plus cozy coffee shops, lively breweries, trendy hotels, and restored buildings like The Metropolitan Theatre—all features that are contributing to the area’s success.
NO. 21
North Port, FL
Fill your days by relaxing in natural mineral springs; exploring an entire state forest; and then meandering through Downtown Wellen’s restaurants, stores, and green spaces. Quicken Loans even named North Port the second-fastest-growing U.S. city in 2023.
NO. 22
Lake Charles, LA
Southwest Louisiana has been hit hard by its fair share of hurricanes and other natural disasters, but it has rebounded with creativity and grit. Port Wonder (a waterfront complex that will house a children’s museum, brewery, and nature center) is set to open this year.
NO. 23
Reston, VA
The expansion of the Silver Line on Washington, D.C.’s Metrorail system has made this stop more accessible and appealing. Reston Town Center, known for its retail and dining, is extra enticing now that it has its own station. Add the city’s 700-plus acres of woodlands, four lakes, and plenty of trails and recreation centers, and you have an increasingly popular getaway.
NO. 24
Edmond, OK
Part of Oklahoma City’s sizable metropolitan area, Edmond has grown steadily over the years. With help from the University of Central Oklahoma, it has the fifth-largest population in the state. Murals, steel sculptures, and stained glass bring color to a walkable downtown that’s buzzing because of its shops, cafes, and frequent street festivals. Outdoor enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the 47 miles of trails, 33 parks, and beautiful Arcadia Lake.
NO. 25
Dover, DE
Delaware’s capital has evolved quite a bit since its early days as the appointed site of Kent County’s court-house. Still home to the state’s supreme court and other government agencies, the city may be embarking on its biggest season of change to date. In 2023, the Downtown Dover Partnership presented the Capital City 2030 plan that will add a proposed multimodal transportation hub, around 100,000 square feet of commercial development, 20 acres of green space, 1,000 residential units, and a half-mile river walk to be built over the next decade.
TOP 20
Charleston, SC
Savannah, GA
Nashville, TN
New Orleans, LA
Asheville, NC
Greenville, SC
Atlanta, GA
Austin, TX
Raleigh, NC
Orlando, FL
Lexington, KY
Charlotte, NC
Chattanooga, TN
Dallas, TX
Birmingham, AL
Fort Worth, TX
Louisville, KY
Richmond, VA
Athens, GA
Charlottesville, VA
PETER FRANK EDWARDS
