Why is Everyone Moving To Georgetown, Texas?
Historic Williamson County Courthouse, Georgetown, Texas
After moving to Leander in 2015, we asked neighbors, “Where do we go first? What do you recommend?” Bats and barbeque topped the list followed by, “Oh, and be sure to visit the Georgetown Square. It is considered the most beautiful town square in Texas.” Yes, we did. Right, they were.
Nine years later, Georgetown is the fastest-growing city in America. Why? Mayor Josh Schroeder likens Georgetown to a “cruise ship on land.” Especially if you’re 55 or older.
This growth spurt is no one-year wonder. According to a July 9, 2024, report by the Wall Street Journal (WSJ), Georgetown looks like a shooting-straight-up teenage boy juiced by hormones, jammed with confidence. According to Census Bureau data of cities with populations over 50,000, the home to Southwestern University…
Grew by 11 % in 2023
Expanded by 14% in 2022
Increased by 11% in 2021
In describing the boomers moving to Boomtown and its custom-designed communities like Sun City, the Mayor jested, “It’s like they’re at college except they don’t have to go to class, and they have $3 million in the bank.”
And what does their presence add to the city? As reported in the WSJ, “Sun City residents have turned out to be the best economic stimulus Georgetown could ask for. The city’s operating budget is flush. Its rainy-day fund is brimming. Stores, restaurants, hospitals, and health clinics add hundreds of jobs every year.”
Beyond the Demographics
However, Georgetown’s growth story extends far beyond one demographic. Due to its strategic proximity to transportation networks, large tracts of open land, and a strong reservoir of talent, employers and homebuilders have targeted the city for economic investment. The County Seat of Williamson County is home to GAF Energy LLC, CelLink Corp., US Farathane Corp., Hanwa Advanced Materials LLC, Strategic Thermal Labs LLC, and ZT Systems.
Additionally, Houston-based Partners Real Estate’s research identified 5.6 million square feet of industrial space now under construction in Georgetown, roughly 34% of the total amount in Austin Metro. Future tenants include Austin-based Control Panels USA Inc., and Ohio-based Clopay – makers of garage and commercial doors.
Places to Go, Things to Do
But wait, (to borrow an infomercial hook) there is more. In its March 2, 2024, edition, Southern Living's banner boldly read, “15 Best Things to Do in Georgetown, Texas. Ready?
“Despite stemming back to the mid-1800s, there is nothing sleepy about Georgetown, and you can find no shortage of entertainment and pastimes.” Here is my abridged fave five version of SL’s list.
Georgetown Poppy Festival
#1) The Red Poppy Festival: Europeans mailed poppy seeds to the city following World War I. Wouldn’t you know it, the city branded the prominent poppies into a unique calling card. The annual festival fills the city’s late April calendar.
#2) Sample the Square: At Mesquite Creek Outfitters, patrons can sip wine while sizing up a unique apparel selection. Afterward, you’ll want to try out one of Nate Funmaker’s hats at Escape Fine Crafts and Gifts which also offers an eclectic collection from over 200 artists and craftsmen. Make sure your most flavorful pause is the last stop: Mikey V’s Foods. Bring a backpack and stock up on Mikey’s award-winning salsas, hot sauces, and snacks. You will enjoy taste bud fireworks for weeks to come.
#3) Dip in a Blue Hole: Located five blocks north of the square, you’ll discover a scenic lagoon bordered by limestone bluffs along the South Fork of the San Gabriel River. Blue Hole Park’s popularity during summertime is only enhanced by its entry fee – FREE.
#4) Water Sporting at Lake Georgetown: In the water swimming, on the water boating and fishing, out of the water 26 miles of hiking around the 1200-acre lake. Visitors will find designated camping areas and a wildlife preserve.
#5) Spelunk the Inner Space Cavern: Plan your tour during the summer months. Why? The cave remains at a constant 72 degrees all year long. It exhibits picturesque stalagmites, expansive caverns, and prehistoric animal bones.
Feel free to contact me for a list of my favorite Georgetown-planned communities - some of which rival a destination resort. Or, as the Mayor might say, “A cruise ship on land.”