by Robert Borges on June 7, 2024
5-minute read
Jump to:
Fort Meyers, FL
Port St. Lucie, FL
Daytona Beach, FL
Ocala, FL
Charleston, SC
Boise, ID
Phoenix, AZ
Austin, TX
In the ever-shifting landscape of American cities, some are booming! U.S. News recently unveiled its list of “Fastest-Growing Places in the U.S. in 2024-2025,” based on a number of factors including net migration and population growth over the past five years.
But not everyone likes the crowds, congestion, and bustle often associated with large and growing towns. That’s where master-planned communities come in. Serene, amenity-rich escapes that offer privacy and security within big city limits.
For this article, we selected several cities from the list that are home to some of the country’s top lifestyle communities. Not surprisingly, many of the cities on the list are in Florida—and PCR has many featured communities to explore in The Sunshine State. But we’ve also included a few unexpected surprises that showcase some diverse towns with great communities to call home.
Whether you're a young professional on the rise, a family seeking a perfect fit, or a retiree yearning for an active lifestyle, this article will show you to the top communities thriving within America's fastest-growing cities.
Fort Meyers, FL
Known as “The City of Palms, Fort Myers is a vibrant city nestled on the southwestern coast of the Sunshine State. Beyond the beautiful beaches and proximity to barrier islands that attract tourists, Fort Myers offers a relaxed lifestyle with plenty to do. Explore nature at the many parks and state preserves, kayak alongside gentle manatees, or delve into local history at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates. The downtown area is full of shops, restaurants, and home to the bustling River District. Communities in Fort Meyers cater to retirees and families, often providing opportunities and access to activities like boating, fishing, hiking, biking, tennis, pickleball and golf.
Featured Community Near Fort Meyers, FL
Verandah
Port St. Lucie, FL
Port St. Lucie is a mid-sized metropolis on Florida’s Atlantic coast situated halfway between Miami and Orlando. Offering a mix of outdoor activities and urban amenities, nature enthusiasts can explore the stunning Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens, kayak through the North Fork St. Lucie Aquatic Preserve, or tee off at world-class golf courses. Baseball fans can catch a spring training game with the New York Mets, while history buffs can delve into regional heritage. Popular lifestyle communities in Port St. Lucie feature quiet neighborhoods with well-appointed homes along scenic waterways and verdant golf courses.
Featured Community Near Port St. Lucie, FL
Astor Creek Golf & Country Club
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Daytona Beach, FL
Daytona Beach attracts vacationers, snowbirds, and year-round residents with bright sunshine and endless activities. A major draw is the iconic Daytona International Speedway, where the Daytona 500 race ignites every February. The town features 23 miles of hard-packed sandy beaches for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and even driving is permitted in designated areas. Residents find plenty of entertainment at the Daytona Beach Boardwalk with arcades, amusement rides, and the iconic Bandshell hosting free summer concerts. Beyond the beach, families can cool off at the Daytona Lagoon water park or explore marine life at the Ponce Inlet Marine Science Center. Among the top communities here is the famous Latitude Margaritaville, inspired by Jimmy Buffett’s laid-back beach vibes.
Featured Community Near Daytona Beach, FL
Latitude Margaritaville Daytona Beach
Ocala, FL
A charming city nestled in central Florida, Ocala has earned the nickname "The Horse Capital of the World." Boasting over 400 thoroughbred farms and training centers, Ocala offers a unique equestrian experience, with opportunities for horseback riding adventures, attending world-class horse shows, or following the whimsical Painted Horse Trail. Beyond the world of horses, residents can explore the vast Ocala National Forest’s hiking trails, crystal-clear springs, and abundant wildlife. History buffs can delve into the past at Fort King National Historic Park, while Silver Springs State Park offers kayaking, glass-bottom boat tours, and a glimpse of Florida's natural beauty. The city center itself provides a relaxed atmosphere with delightful shops, restaurants, and cultural offerings.
Featured Community Near Ocala, FL
Calesa Township
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Charleston, SC
Charleston, SC, oozes Southern charm. Steeped in history, this harbor city boasts cobblestone streets lined with pastel antebellum houses. This is particularly apparent in the elegant French Quarter and Battery districts where you can take a carriage ride past manicured gardens and immerse yourself in the city's rich past, which also includes Fort Sumter. In addition to history, Charleson’s Waterfront Park has amazing harbor views, and the beautiful beaches of Folly, Kiawah, or Isle of Palms are within proximity of the city’s tranquil communities.
Featured Community Near Charleston, SC
Point Hope
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Boise, ID
Idaho's capital and most populous city offers a unique blend of urban energy and outdoor adventure. Situated along the Boise River and the Boise Greenbelt, a network of trails and parks winds through the city, perfect for cycling, jogging, or simply enjoying nature. Off the beaten path, the Boise foothills offer hiking, biking, and rock-climbing opportunities, while the region’s mountains give residents the chance to be among breathtaking rivers, lakes, and canyons. The city’s unique downtown scene features a lively restaurant culture along with a variety of museums and venues for regular events. With a thriving job market and reasonable cost of living, it’s easy to see why Bosie is a popular destination for homebuyers.
Featured Community Near Boise, ID
Trilogy® Valor
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix, aka The Valley of the Sun, is a sprawling metropolis with an energetic downtown full of contemporary buildings, sports stadiums, arts and shopping districts, and world-class eateries—all surrounded by the Sonoran Desert's beauty and recreational opportunities. Popular destinations in the greater Phoenix area include Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Recreation Area, Phoenix Mountains Preserve, Tempe Town Lake, the Desert Botanical Garden, and 10 MLB Cactus League Spring Training stadiums. Residents of communities near Phoenix are within proximity of countless championship courses for year-round golf, as well as renowned healthcare facilities.
Featured Community Near Phoenix, AZ
Estrella
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Austin, TX
The Lone Star State’s lively capital pulsates with creative energy. Nicknamed "The Live Music Capital of the World," Austin boasts a music scene with iconic venues like Sixth Street and Zilker Park hosting everything from country to indie rock. Beyond the music, residents love the quirky shops on South Congress Avenue, or taking a dip in Barton Springs Municipal Pool, a natural spring-fed swimming paradise. Nature lovers hike and bike through Zilker Metropolitan Park or kayak on Lady Bird Lake. The city’s food scene is equally diverse, with options ranging from world-class BBQ to trendy food trucks. Austin's booming job market and undeniable cool factor make it a magnet for young professionals and those seeking a trendy and exciting place to call home.
Featured Community Near Austin, TX
Headwaters
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