The Brief
- New U.S. Census Bureau data shows the Lakeland metro area ranked among the fastest-growing populations.
- Polk County grew by about 2.7% and is projected to surpass 1 million residents by 2030, driven by families and retirees seeking affordability and location.
- Experts warn rapid growth could strain infrastructure and lead to rising housing costs and tighter economic opportunities over time.
LAKELAND, Fla. – A recent U.S. Census Bureau report shows the Lakeland metro area ranks in the top five U.S. cities for percentage population growth.
During the pandemic five years ago, Marcus Holmes moved to Lakeland from
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