Pasco County Among Florida’s Fastest-Growing Communities

Pasco County continues to rank among the fastest-growing areas in Florida, with new census data showing a population increase of more than 15 percent in recent years.

According to an analysis of U.S. Census Bureau figures, Pasco’s population rose from an average of about 510,600 in 2014–2018 to roughly 588,800 in 2019–2023. That surge places Pasco ahead of most counties in the state, trailing only places like St. Johns County near Jacksonville, which saw a 24 percent jump, and Polk County, which grew by nearly 14 percent.

Local officials say the rapid growth is being driven by people moving into Florida and the Tampa Bay region, drawn by lower taxes, quality of life, and post-pandemic migration trends. What was once considered a “bedroom community” for workers commuting to Pinellas and Hillsborough is increasingly developing its own economic base.

Pasco leaders have worked to attract businesses and industry alongside the housing boom. Economic development officials stress that job creation must keep pace with residential construction to reduce heavy commuter traffic. “If growth is only residential, we’re still sending thousands of people onto the highways each morning,” said Pasco Economic Development Council president Bill Cronin.

The scale of development is hard to miss. County records show more than 660 projects currently under construction and another 200 in review. Major undertakings include Moffitt Cancer Center’s 775-acre Speros campus in Land O’ Lakes, as well as numerous master-planned communities replacing farmland and open tracts.

But the growth comes with challenges. Traffic congestion, rising housing costs, and infrastructure demands remain top concerns for residents and county commissioners. In 2023, Zephyrhills temporarily halted new development after a water shortage highlighted the strain of rapid expansion. Commissioners have since pushed for more east-west road capacity, expanded bike and pedestrian trails, and new housing options such as garage apartments or “in-law” suites to help with affordability.

At the same time, officials note that more than one-third of county land remains preserved from development, protecting green space that many say is part of Pasco’s appeal.

The question going forward, leaders emphasize, is balance—ensuring that new jobs, infrastructure, and services keep up with the rising population.

Stay informed on Pasco County’s growth and community updates by visiting www.PascoCommunityWebsite.com or following us on Facebook at Pasco Community Website.