Top 10 Cities for the Land Transactions in the U.S.

The land asset class is a vital component of commercial real estate (CRE), and as urban expansion, infrastructure projects, and population growth continue, strategic land investments are becoming increasingly valuable. Some cities in the U.S. stand out as hotspots for land acquisition and development, driven by economic growth, favorable zoning laws, and infrastructure investments. Here’s a look at the top 10 cities for land investment, where demand for land is surging and opportunities abound.

1. Austin, Texas

Austin has long been a favorite for real estate investors, and its land asset class is no exception. As one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., Austin continues to experience robust population growth, tech industry expansion, and infrastructure development. Land prices are rising, especially in suburban and exurban areas, making it a prime location for residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments.

Key Drivers:

• Tech industry growth (major firms like Apple, Google, and Tesla)
• Expanding infrastructure, including roadways and transit
• Population boom and housing demand

2. Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix offers some of the best opportunities in the land market, particularly for industrial, residential, and commercial developments. With its business-friendly environment, affordable cost of living, and rapid job creation, the demand for developable land continues to surge in the greater Phoenix area.

Key Drivers:

• Proximity to major transportation routes for logistics
• Business-friendly regulations and tax incentives
• Significant growth in the housing sector

3. Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is another rapidly growing metro area, known for its booming music industry, healthcare sector, and tourism. In addition to downtown developments, there is substantial demand for suburban and rural land as people look to relocate to areas with more space, particularly post-pandemic. With a burgeoning economy and infrastructure expansion, land in the surrounding areas is becoming a hot commodity.

Key Drivers:

• Strong economic growth in healthcare and entertainment
• Expanding infrastructure to support rapid population growth
• Influx of new residents from high-cost cities

4. Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas

Dallas-Fort Worth continues to be one of the most dynamic CRE markets in the country, with a strong emphasis on land development. This area is seeing expansion across industrial, residential, and commercial sectors, particularly in exurban regions. The proximity to major highways and airports makes DFW a key location for logistics and corporate relocations.

Key Drivers:

• Expanding logistics and distribution centers
• Growing suburban residential developments
• Corporate relocations and regional business hubs

5. Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina

The Raleigh-Durham region is experiencing a tech and biotech boom, leading to increased demand for land to support the growing workforce and infrastructure needs. The Research Triangle area, which includes major universities and research facilities, is a magnet for talent and investors, further driving demand for residential, office, and industrial land.

Key Drivers:

• Tech and biotech industry growth
• Strong university and research presence
• Substantial infrastructure and housing development

6. Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City has rapidly become a top destination for land investment, particularly due to its affordability and growing population. The city’s strategic location as a logistics and transportation hub, combined with its booming tech sector, has driven land prices up. Land in nearby suburban and rural areas is being eyed for residential and industrial developments as well.

Key Drivers:

• Expanding tech and logistics sectors
• Strong population growth and housing demand
• Strategic location for transportation and logistics

7. Orlando, Florida

Orlando is not just a tourism hub—it’s also becoming a prime spot for land investment. As the population grows and more businesses relocate to Florida, suburban and rural land around Orlando is being snapped up for residential and commercial developments. Orlando’s proximity to highways and its affordable land make it particularly attractive for industrial projects as well.

Key Drivers:

• Population growth due to migration from northern states
• Expansion of industrial and commercial sectors
• Proximity to major transportation corridors

8. Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte is a key financial hub, but it’s also a rising star for land investments. The city is experiencing significant population growth, which is driving demand for residential land. Additionally, Charlotte’s expanding economy and infrastructure projects are pushing up land prices in the surrounding areas, making it a hotbed for development.

Key Drivers:

• Strong financial sector and corporate relocations
• Expanding residential development in surrounding areas
• Infrastructure improvements and transit expansion

9. Boise, Idaho

Boise has emerged as one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., driven by an influx of residents seeking a lower cost of living and better quality of life. This has led to a significant demand for land, particularly for residential and mixed-use developments. The city’s pro-business environment and expanding tech sector have also contributed to the increase in land values.

Key Drivers:

• Strong population growth, particularly from California migrants
• Expansion of residential and commercial sectors
• Favorable business and tax environment

10. Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta has long been a hub for real estate development, and land investment opportunities continue to thrive. The city’s growing population, combined with its role as a major transportation and logistics center, makes it an ideal location for industrial, commercial, and residential land development. The suburban and exurban regions surrounding Atlanta are also seeing a rise in land values.

Key Drivers:

• Expanding logistics and industrial sectors
• Population growth and demand for suburban housing
• Major infrastructure improvements

Conclusion

Land investments are gaining momentum across the U.S., particularly in cities that offer strong economic growth, favorable business environments, and expanding infrastructure. Whether it’s for residential, industrial, or commercial development, these top 10 cities provide brokers and investors with substantial opportunities to capitalize on the land asset class.

For brokers, understanding the key drivers behind land demand in these cities—such as population growth, economic expansion, and infrastructure projects—will be crucial in identifying and advising on the best land deals. As the U.S. continues to grow, these cities will remain at the forefront of land investment opportunities.

By leveraging tools like VidTech’s 3D modeling and video inspection services, brokers and investors can make more informed decisions about land acquisitions, helping to visualize potential developments and reduce the number of physical site visits required.