In addition to looking for current growth, you can look for industry diversity, such that an area's economy is not overly concentrated in one industry.Some folks use data like the U-Haul Migration Trends.

The area will continue to grow with our diverse economy, Research Triangle Park and universities. 

Our copy of this movie is so old it's on VHS but it's a worthwhile diversion for anyone contemplating a rehab or for those in the middle of one.

We have more diverse employment & economy and from what I've seen we have better options for property management.

So we need a tighter range for population size.Economic Diversity & StrengthWe want economic strength, but too much is linked with growth, which is linked with rapidly rising prices and competition, which means you get no deals!

As a rule of thumb, try to stick to markets with growing population, diverse economy, low unemployment rate, and a affordable housing market.

Look for markets that have growing populations, growing jobs (pre covid), modern, diverse and growing economies.

If your goal is to build long term wealth through SFRs or small multi family properties, San Diego is going to be one of the better markets in the U.S: Low Supply / High Demand, high appreciation on already higher priced RE, resilient & diverse economy, & tons of expected future growth for the foreseeable future. 

KC also has good population growth, job growth and a modern, diverse economy.

Indianapolis has a strong, diverse economy.