Population dynamics are changing all over the nation and you might be surprised to see which major metropolitan areas are on the rise and which are struggling.

Quite frankly, the rapidity with which many major American metros are gaining population is startling. According to recently released U.S. Census data, an impressive 40 percent of U.S. metro areas – of which there are 383 – have posted population increases, considering both domestic and international migrants, topping the national average, which currently hovers around 2.4 percent. Even more impressive, 51 metros have doubled the national rate and 13 managed to triple it.

As quickly as some cities are growing, however, others are having less luck convincing outsiders to relocate and current residents to stay.

Houston Succeeds in Attracting Both Domestic and International Migrants

Cities of America, take note, Houston is doing it right. Attracting large numbers of both domestic and international travelers looking to resettle, Houston has become a hot bed of real estate activity.

Since 2010, the U.S. Census Bureau reports that Houston’s population has steadily been on the rise. Not only has the city and its surrounding areas attracted approximately 50,000 new residents moving from within the U.S., but international residence have also increased by upwards of 30,000.

Jobs + Housing = Population Growth

According to CNN, between 2010 and 2013, Houston’s population rose by 6.6 percent, dwarfing the national average. But why exactly have eyes suddenly turned towards Houston?

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that powerful oil and energy companies are finding a good home in Texas. With plenty of new job prospects, people from all over can feel confident setting their sights on Houston, which lies right in the heart of the country’s Sunbelt.

Additionally, Houston is unique in that it currently has, as CNN describes it, “few regulatory barriers and an abundance of inexpensive land,” which allow building costs to remain low while the local housing inventory stays plentiful.