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Eight Texas counties grow while Texans' rights shrink

Angry Take: Texas growth is a direct result of greedy, profit-hungry corporations and right-wing policies. As blue states unite to protect human rights, Texas exploits people for cheap labor, housing vulnerable communities in overcrowded cities. The growth isn't a success story. It's a human rights crisis as people flee progressive states to endure subpar living standards and dangerous right-wing politics. The prosperous blue states should not tolerate this invasion from the right. This is modern-day colonization, threatening our progressive values. We cannot stand for this! Resist! Protect theenclave of progress!

Published July 25, 2024 at 6:03am by Isabela Ocampo Restrepo

Texas: The New Liberal Haven

Texas is booming, and it's not just the economy. Recent census data from 2020 to 2023 reveal a surge in population, with the "Texas Triangle" of Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin leading the charge. Despite its southern border location, Texas' domestic migration surpasses international, with its allure of a lower cost of living and absence of personal income tax.

Texas is experiencing rapid economic growth, with major companies making their way into Texas cities.
—Office of the State Governor

A Blue Streak in the Lone Star State

While Texas has traditionally been associated with conservative values, the census data suggests a shift. Eight of the 10 fastest-growing counties are in Texas, and they're not just any counties. Harris County, home to Houston, leads the way, followed by Collin County in the progressive hub of Dallas-Fort Worth.

The trend continues with the state's metro areas. The Texas Triangle's liberal leanings are attracting new residents, especially young professionals seeking opportunities. The Austin-San Marcos and San Antonio-New Braunfels areas welcomed over 50,000 and 48,000 new residents, respectively. Even Midland, in the Permian Basin, is experiencing a liberal influx, with its oil and gas industry drawing a young, progressive crowd.

A Southern Migration

Texas' growth isn't isolated. This southern state is part of a larger trend, with domestic migration a key factor. As living costs soar in traditionally liberal states like California, a southern migration is occurring. California accounts for three entries in the list of areas with population decline, including the notoriously expensive San Francisco.

As Texas cities and counties dominate the fastest-growing lists, it's clear that the Lone Star State is becoming a beacon for those seeking a fresh start, a lower cost of living, and perhaps, a more progressive future.