. - Look up population growth in the top 50 US metros.

Look for markets with population and job growth.

However, the U.S. data center boom has drawn criticism based on a variety of factors, such as the amount of power and water the facilities use.The ABJ has now identified more than 20 data center projects in the Austin area in recent years, which are expected to include at least $25 billion in capital investment — likely an undercount — spread across millions of square feet of building space, along with thousands of jobs, primarily in construction.Temple, which is about 70 miles north of Austin and has a population north of 90,000 people, is emerging as its own hub.

North Carolina does not have different taxes.Emerging OpportunitiesLincolnton, NC – Affordable rents at $1,454, rising nearly 10%​Population Increase: As of July 2023, Lincolnton's population was estimated at 12,128, reflecting a 9.3% growth since April 2020 .

MTRs stand out as a great middle ground: higher returns than LTRs, with less turnover and day-to-day management than STRs.On paper, Augusta looks like a strong fit for my goals (population, income, and rent growth all trending up).

August 2025- Top RTP and Vacancy Zip CodesZIP Code Overview (Vacancy – RTP)ZIP Code Vacancy RTP (Rent-to-Price Ratio)28213 10%14.38282166%14.52282699%14.24280128%13.42280838%14.20Mecklenburg County (ZIPs 28213, 28216, 28269)Population Surge: The county’s population grew from ~1.12 million in 2022 to ~1.13 million in 2023 (a ~1.4% increase) (Data USA).

Here are some reasons why Cape Coral may appeal to real estate investors:1) Growing Population: Cape Coral has experienced steady population growth over the years.

If this is your chosen path, look at population trends for rising tides. 

Anderson has huge homeless and drug addicted populations.

.✅ Why I like the Columbia market right now:Steady population growth (thanks to the University of South Carolina, healthcare, and military presence)Strong rental demand with limited new inventoryI’ve been seeing traction with new construction rental products, in both Richland and Lexington counties.