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Florida's Rapid Growth Strains Resources and Affordability
10 Oct
Summary
- Florida's population grew 8% since 2020, the fastest in the U.S.
- High home prices and insurance costs make housing unaffordable
- State faces water shortages due to overpumping of aquifers
As of October 10, 2025, Florida's population has grown at a remarkable pace, increasing by 8% since 2020 to over 23 million residents, the fastest growth of any U.S. state during this period. While this population boom has provided a boost to the state's economy, it has also brought significant challenges.
The influx of new residents has fueled a housing crisis, with home prices in Florida now significantly higher than the national average. The typical home value stands at $407,830, compared to the national average of $371,133. Additionally, property insurance premiums in the state are at least double the national average, driven by factors like the high risk of hurricanes and excessive litigation.
Alongside the affordability issues, Florida is also grappling with a looming water shortage. The state's primary drinking water source, the Floridan aquifer, is under stress from overpumping, leading to the drying up of entire springs. Experts predict that regional water demands will increase by 41% by 2045, potentially causing a groundwater shortfall of 96 million gallons per day.
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As one of the states most threatened by sea-level rise, Florida also faces the risk of critical infrastructure being flooded, including public housing, healthcare facilities, and industrial sites. Addressing these challenges will require significant long-term investments and tough decisions by state and local planners.
