TEXAS — Several North Texas cities are making national headlines after new U.S. Census Bureau data revealed they are among the fastest-growing communities in the country.

What You Need To Know

  • According to the latest report, seven of the 15 fastest-growing cities in the United States from July 2022 to July 2023 are in Texas — with three in the North Texas region

  • Topping the national list is Princeton, followed closely by Celina in fourth and Anna in fifth

  • With the explosive growth, however, come significant challenges. In Celina, rising water demand is prompting concern

  • Meanwhile, Princeton is attempting to slow its rapid pace. The city has enacted a moratorium on new developments

According to the latest report, seven of the 15 fastest-growing cities in the United States from July 2022 to July 2023 are in Texas — with three in the North Texas region.

Topping the national list is Princeton, followed closely by Celina in fourth and Anna in fifth.

The rapid expansion is visibly reshaping these once small towns. In Celina, cranes and construction sites have become common sights.

“Back in 2017, there were about 12,000 residents,” said Celina Mayor Ryan Tubbs. “By 2020, we had 20,000, and now we’re pushing above 60,000.”

Anna is seeing a similar surge. Mayor Pete Cain said the city has doubled in population since 2020, now boasting more than 32,000 residents. City leaders are racing to expand infrastructure, from emergency services to entertainment and education.

“By 2050, I wouldn’t be surprised if we’re closing in on 100,000 to 125,000 people,” Cain said. “The complete build-out could reach 250,000.”

With the explosive growth, however, come significant challenges. In Celina, rising water demand is prompting concern.

“We need water,” said Tubbs. “Right now, we’re waiting on Lake Ralph Hall to come online.”

Meanwhile, Princeton is attempting to slow its rapid pace. The city has enacted a moratorium on new developments — a measure Mayor Eugene Escobar Jr. said he wants to extend to manage strain on services.

“It can have a negative impact on the city,” Escobar said.

Despite the growing pains, North Texas remains an attractive destination because of its relative affordability and proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. 

Tubbs says investments in transportation, including a 6.5-mile expansion of the tollway by the North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA), are also helping to support the boom in Celina.

As development continues, local leaders say they’re focused on smart, sustainable growth — knowing this wave of expansion is likely just the beginning.

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