Economic Growth Cities Driving America’s Future

Big Cities, Bigger Momentum: Where Growth Is Surging

According to CoworkingCafe, Austin, TX took the top spot among large cities, driven by a 51% rise in GDP and a 71% spike in new business applications. Major investments in housing and transit — including Project Connect — support its diverse economy, spanning tech, government, and creative industries.

Sacramento, CA closely follows, fueled by a staggering 166% growth in business applications and a 32% increase in median earnings. Entrepreneurial support platforms and federal stimulus programs have bolstered its growth.

Jacksonville, FL stands out with a 9% population increase, strong trade via JAXPORT, and a 43% GDP boost. Major infrastructure upgrades are preparing it for long-term scalability.

Phoenix, AZ and Fort Worth, TX round out the top five. Phoenix benefits from major public investment and connectivity projects, while Fort Worth excels in education gains and export growth.

Mid-Sized Cities: Not Just Keeping Pace — Leading It

Gilbert, AZ leads all mid-sized cities with nearly 71 points, propelled by 32% wage growth and massive infrastructure investments. A highly educated population supports key sectors like tech and healthcare.

Tampa, FL follows with a 43% GDP rise and broad-based improvements in employment and housing. It’s positioning itself as a diversified economy beyond tourism.

Orlando, FL shows strong population and income gains, while St. Petersburg, FL and Chandler, AZ distinguish themselves with surging business formation and tech-led infrastructure growth, respectively.

Small Cities, Big Results: The Unexpected Engines of Growth

Goodyear, AZ takes the top spot for small cities, with soaring education levels and a rapidly expanding housing market. The city is leveraging infrastructure, trade zones, and developable land to attract employers.

Nampa, ID ranks #1 in unemployment reduction and #2 in job growth. Its 40% rise in wages and surging GDP point to a city turning into a major labor market hub.

Port St. Lucie, FL and Surprise, AZ show the power of entrepreneurial activity and rapid job creation, while Murfreesboro, TN offers a balanced and sustainable growth trajectory.

Expert View: How Cities Can Capitalize on the Moment

Steven Pedigo, Director of the LBJ Urban Lab at the University of Texas, emphasizes that workforce development is the currency of modern economic growth. Cities that align education, housing, and mobility strategies — while supporting entrepreneurs beyond the launch phase — are building the infrastructure of long-term prosperity.

From Austin’s housing overhaul to Chattanooga’s innovation district, cities that view education institutions as growth partners are outperforming. And as remote work reshapes where people choose to live, quality of place and digital infrastructure are becoming as crucial as job access.

Why It Matters

The economic future of the US isn’t confined to traditional hubs like New York or San Francisco. Instead, it’s being built in cities like Goodyear, Nampa, Chandler, and Jacksonville — places that are investing in infrastructure, enabling entrepreneurship, and cultivating local talent.

As America’s growth map evolves, these cities offer a blueprint for prosperity in the AI-driven, post-pandemic economy.

What’s Next

With more than 38,000 branded residences in the US and a massive rise in business formation and workforce migration, the coming years will reward cities that can balance fast growth with affordability, resilience, and inclusivity.

The rise of smaller and mid-sized cities is no longer anecdotal — it’s a national trend with staying power.