5 Towns in Texas That Will Be Important Cities by 2050

It’s no secret that Texas is a massive state – from its population of nearly 30 million residents to its booming economy, which ranks as the 9th largest in the world. Cities like Dallas, Austin, and Houston consistently lead the nation in population growth. What’s less commonly known is that the landscape in the Lone Star State is shifting. Five towns in Texas will be important cities by 2050.

From the historic charm of Georgetown to the energy hub of Pecos, these formerly small towns are on the path to becoming major metropolises. Let’s take a look at the five towns paving the way for a new Texan era.

1. Georgetown

Georgetown is about an hour from Austin. It offers a picturesque historic district and thriving outdoor recreation scene, but don’t be fooled by its small-town charm. According to the city’s website, Georgetown’s population increased by 15% in two years – from less than 70,000 in 2020 to over 86,000 in 2022. This year, it ranked as the top-growing suburb in the U.S. for the second year in a row!

In addition to its prime location, Georgetown boasts a diverse economy. The town’s top employers include major players in industries including advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and retail. On top of that, Georgetown is nationally recognized for its focus on renewable energy and sustainable growth. These factors leave no doubt – Georgetown is among the towns in Texas that will be important cities by 2050.

2. Conroe

Conroe was once known as another suburb on the outskirts of Houston. In recent years, it’s experienced an economic boom that’s earned it a spot on the map. In 2023, it ranked sixth out of the top 100 U.S. cities by population and economic growth. Its two large business parks – Deison Technology Park and Conroe Park North – are a major draw to the area. Combined, they host over 40 companies and roughly 3,000 workers. These companies span a wide range of industries, from biopharmaceuticals to higher education.

It’s no surprise that Conroe’s population has nearly doubled since the year 2000. The town’s business-friendly environment, affordable housing, and convenient location make it a sure bet for sustained growth by 2050.

3. New Braunfels

New Braunfels is a Central Texas town with a deep-rooted German heritage. Despite strong ties to its cultural past, it’s always open to embracing growth. According to a Smart Asset report, the town had the second-highest population (roughly 36%) and housing growth (about 40%) increased in the U.S. between 2016 and 2021. New Braunfels is also located less than an hour from both Austin and San Antonio.

The town’s GDP reached $2.8 billion in 2021 – more than double what it was a decade earlier. Home of the popular waterpark Schlitterbahn and numerous outdoor activities along the Comal and Guadalupe rivers, the town boasts a thriving tourism industry. Recent corporate investments in New Braunfels include a Continental auto manufacturing plant built in 2022 and an expansion by outsourcing company TaskUs, which the town’s economic development corporation reports created nearly 800 jobs.

With its prime location, investment in tourism, and booming economy, New Braunfels is on its way to becoming a major Texan hub.

4. Celina

Celina is the fastest-growing city in North Texas. Located at the north end of the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, it offers residents easy access to major highways – including the upcoming Dallas North Tollway expansion – while still maintaining a small-town atmosphere.

Retail companies and real estate development firms have already noticed Celina’s potential. Wholesale warehouse chain Costco moved into town in 2022, bringing over 1,000 jobs with it. Centurion American Development Group also broke ground on a 3,200-acre community in Celina last year, with 7,000 single-family homes and over 4,000 multi-family homes.

Today, Celina’s population is over 30,000, which is triple what it was in 2010! The growth doesn’t stop there. According to the city’s website, Celina’s projected buildout population is about 378,000, making it among towns in Texas that will be important cities by 2050.

5. Pecos

Located in the heart of the Permian Basin, Pecos ranked as the number two fastest-growing small town in the nation by Forbes in 2012. According to the town’s website, it grew 45% between 2010 and 2020. The median household income in Pecos also increased by 14% during the same period – and it’s still going up!

Pecos is the county seat of Reeves County, which currently ranks fifth in the nation for oil and gas production. The booming energy business is attracting new retail and hospitality businesses to the Pecos area. This includes several national franchise hotels and restaurants. These capital investments total over $25 million and will create more than 50 new jobs.

In addition to its booming oil business, Pecos is transitioning into a renewable energy hub. Its proximity to vast wind and solar energy projects positions Pecos as a key player in Texas’ sustainable growth.