PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — It’s no secret that in recent years Pasco County has seen a population boom.

What You Need To Know

  • Pasco County's population is projected to be about 680,000 people this year, compared to about 495,000 people 10 years ago

  • Construction and development have been on the rise for new homes and businesses, while families are moving to the area
  • Wesley Chapel has seen a rise in population, cementing itself as one of the largest populated areas within Pasco County
  • Elsewhere in the county, Zephyrhills is seeing a similar boom, with officials crediting the city's sense of community and location as being a key factor

It is projected the population this year will be about 680,000 people. Compare that to about 495,000 a decade ago. Construction and development have been on the rise for new homes and businesses, while families are moving to the area.

So, what is causing so many to decide to call the area “home?”

“It is really a hub of economic and educational growth," said Chad Emory.

Inside their office, Chad and April Emory are working to keep up with demand.

“It’s really growing in such a way that people want to move here because of the things that are offered," said Chad Emory, broker & owner of Emorys Rock Realty. "It’s really great and centrally located for getting down to Tampa, which has all of the entertainment and sports and things like that. It’s a great location.”

The husband-and-wife duo have called Wesley Chapel home for 22 years. Owning their real estate agency, Emorys Rock Realty, they have an insight on real estate throughout Land O’ Lakes, Wesley Chapel and Lutz. They understand why homeowners are flocking to the area.

“One of the first things that families ask about is the schools," said April Emory. "So, we have an amazing school system in Wesley Chapel, and we were very happy when the colleges came to the area as well. My son had gotten his bachelor’s degree here so that was such a blessing for him.”

Elsewhere in the county, Zephyrhills has been experiencing a similar population boom. City manager Billy Poe says it is a feeling of community that’s drawing in people.

“As a city, we’re obviously trying to control growth and grow smartly but also have that community and hometown feel that I think draws a lot of people to our area,” said Poe.

In fact, just two years ago, the city had to impose a moratorium. A pause was placed on new housing developments within city limits. While that moratorium is still in place, businesses like Bauducco Foods have broken ground in the area.

“There are businesses looking at this area, which is a great thing for Zephyrhills and east Pasco as a whole," said Poe. "Just being able to provide jobs here in Pasco County so our residents don’t have to drive to Hillsborough, Polk, or Pinellas counties. They’re able to work, live and play right here in Zephyrhills.”

As for what future population trends look like, the Emorys say things are looking quite steady.

“Every community is just growing and growing with everything they offer within their communities, like shopping and dining," said April Emory. "So, I think we’re going to continue to see it be a destination location.”

An area with plenty to offer, working to make sure there are places for people to live and do business.