Boomtown in the Heart of Texas: Unanticipated Urban Expansion Leads the Nation, Buoys Expectations Beyond Austin
In the heart of the Lone Star State, a remarkable transformation unfolded in the rural town of Princeton, approximately an hour northeast of Dallas. Known for its peaceful countryside charm until recently, Princeton has morphed into a bustling hub—its population exploding from around 18,000 to an impressive 37,000 between 2014 and 2024, as per the latest U.S. Census Bureau estimates. This rapid growth makes Princeton the fastest-growing city or town in the nation.
Texas continues to witness a population boom, with several regions leading the charge and setting the pace for the rest of the U.S. Seven out of fifteen of the nation's fastest-growing cities and towns are nestled in the Lone Star State, with Princeton taking the lead.
The surge in Texas' population isn't confined merely to the historically smaller, rural towns. Several of the state's major cities are expanding rapidly as well. In 2024, Houston, the state's most populous city, countied nearly 2.4 million residents, having added 43,217 new inhabitants. Only New York City saw a bigger population increase than Houston. San Antonio, Texas' second-largest city, boasted nearly 1.5 million residents, having gained close to 24,000 more.
Demographers attribute the growing appeal of Princeton and many other Texas cities to their affordability. The typical home in Princeton goes for around $325,000, making it a more attainable option compared to the $500,000+ properties in neighboring cities like McKinney, or the $685,000 homes in Frisco. According to Princeton Mayor Eugene Escobar, it's all about value.
The rapid growth in Princeton has inevitably led to change. Escobar, who moved to Princeton in 2013, shares that the town has transformed drastically. Once characterized by just two stoplights, Princeton now boasts a more substantial infrastructure to support its swelling population.
Princeton's transformation doesn't stop at the number of rooftops; sprawling single-family subdivisions, apartment buildings, and townhomes have sprouted across the town. Road signs advertising new homes from as low as $200,000 adorn U.S. 380, the main thoroughfare through Princeton. The city is anticipating the construction of 10,000 new homes.
However, the influx of new residents has strained Princeton's infrastructure. In 2023, the City Council imposed a temporary halt on new residential construction to prevent further strain on water, sewage, fire, and police services. City officials are planning for Princeton's future growth while preserving its small-town appeal.
Princeton has become a popular bedroom community, with many of its residents commuting to nearby cities like McKinney and Frisco for work and leisure. Major retailers and chain restaurants have set up shop in Princeton, but the city aims to expand its retail, dining, and entertainment options to cater to its burgeoning population.
City officials are eager to build on Princeton's momentum, focusing on enhancing local amenities, such as parks, and capitalizing on the city's relatively undeveloped landscape. They envision shaping the city's future identity and maintaining its small-town charm.
[1] "Fastest-Growing Cities in Texas for 2024." Statista. https://www.statista.com/statistics/1307482/fastest-growing-cities-in-texas/
[2] "Why West Texas is Growing Faster Than the Rest of the State." Texas Tribune. https://www.texastribune.org/2024/08/25/texas-west-population-growth/
[3] "Here Are the Fastest-Growing Cities in Texas." Dallas News. https://www.dallasnews.com/news/state/2025/03/15/here-are-the-fastest-growing-cities-in-texas/
[4] "Population of Princeton, Texas (TX)." World Population Review. https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/population-of-cities-in-texas
[5] "Princeton, Texas Data and Demographics." US Census Bureau. https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/princetontx,US/PST045220
- The growth spurt experienced by Princeton, Texas, a once peaceful rural town, has attracted the attention of news outlets across the nation, making headlines in the realm of politics and community.
- In the realm of finance and investing, Princeton's real-estate sector has been booming, with the median home price remaining significantly lower compared to neighboring cities—a factor that has enhanced the town's appeal to potential residents, contributing to its swift population growth.
- The influx of new residents in Princeton and other fast-growing cities in Texas has sparked discussions among demographers about the state's potential economic impacts, particularly in terms of the demand for infrastructure, job opportunities, and the preservation of small-town charm.
