DeLand experiences explosive growth in population and housing

DeLand, Florida, is experiencing significant growth, with its population nearly doubling since 2000 and projected to continue rising. Recent data indicates that the city is expected to reach a population of approximately 43,450 by the end of this year, marking a 5.29% increase from last year. By 2025, the population is anticipated to grow to around 45,515, reflecting a 4.75% increase.

The city has seen a notable uptick in residential construction, with an average of 577.5 residential permits issued annually since 2020. However, in 2023, there was a 13.9% decrease in total annual residential permits compared to 2022, with DeLand issuing 568 permits. This figure positions DeLand second in residential permits issued in Volusia County, surpassing Deltona but falling short of Daytona Beach.

To support this growth, the city is expanding its water treatment facility, addressing the needs of both existing residents and new developments in the surrounding unincorporated areas that fall within DeLand's utility service zone.

On the employment front, DeLand has seen a recovery in its labor market post-pandemic, with the unemployment rate dropping from 6.2% in 2021 to 4.1% in 2024. The labor force has also shown consistent growth from the first quarter of 2020 to the first quarter of 2024. Additionally, the median home sale price has steadily increased since January 2020, reflecting the ongoing demand for housing in the area.