More counties across the United States saw an increase in population over the past year, as per the most recent Census data, despite the gradual normalization of pandemic-related migration patterns.
Population growth persisted in Southern counties, notably in Florida, where 96% of its 67 counties witnessed an influx of new residents. Polk County, a suburb of Orlando, Florida, attracted the highest number of new residents, with 26,000 individuals relocating there in 2023.
On the other hand, counties in the Midwest and Northeast continued to experience population decline, although at a slower pace compared to the previous year. Some of the most significant declines were observed in counties housing major cities such as Cook County, Illinois (home to Chicago), and the boroughs of Brooklyn and Queens in New York.
Various factors contribute to the growth of many counties, including job opportunities, educational resources, and relatively affordable housing options. Some areas are preferred for their historical significance, well-designed downtown areas, or access to cultural amenities.
Stacker has compiled a list of the top counties to reside in Florida based on rankings from Niche. These rankings consider factors like public schools, educational achievements, cost of living, and housing.
To see if your county made the list, continue reading below:
30. Flagler County, Florida
- Overall Rank: 718
- Population: 117,515
- Median Household Income: $69,251
- Median Home Value: $293,700
- Top Public Schools: Old Kings Elementary School, Belle Terre Elementary School, Indian Trails Middle School
- Top Private Schools: First Baptist Christian Academy, Christ the King Lutheran School, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School
- Top Places: Flagler Beach, Palm Coast, Bunnell
29. Bay County, Florida
- Overall Rank: 680
- Population: 181,055
- Median Household Income: $65,999
- Median Home Value: $246,800
- Top Public Schools: Rising Leaders Academy, North Bay Haven Charter Academy High School, University Academy
- Top Private Schools: Covenant Christian School, Panama City Advanced School, Holy Nativity Episcopal School
- Top Places: Lynn Haven, Upper Grand Lagoon, Lower Grand Lagoon
28. Pasco County, Florida
- Overall Rank: 674
- Population: 569,211
- Median Household Income: $63,187
- Median Home Value: $233,600
- Top Public Schools: James W. Mitchell High School, Land O’ Lakes High School, Wiregrass Ranch High School
- Top Private Schools: Academy at the Lakes, Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School, Genesis Preparatory School
- Top Places: Wesley Chapel, Odessa, Trinity
27. Lafayette County, Florida
- Overall Rank: 610
- Population: 8,107
- Median Household Income: $57,852
- Median Home Value: $118,600
- Top Public Schools: Lafayette High School, Lafayette Elementary School
- Top Private Schools: Lighthouse Christian Academy
- Top Places: Mayo
26. Walton County, Florida
- Overall Rank: 601
- Population: 76,618
- Median Household Income: $74,832
- Median Home Value: $327,000
- Top Public Schools: Freeport Senior High School, Van R. Butler Elementary School, Emerald Coast Middle School
- Top Private Schools: Ohana Institute, Gateway Academy, SOUTH WALTON ACADEMY
- Top Places: Miramar Beach, DeFuniak Springs, Freeport
Continue reading to explore more counties in Florida that made the list of the best places to live.