Citrus County may be on the brink of a population surge as demand for housing continues to climb.

County commissioners this week reviewed how other parts of Florida are managing rapid growth, a timely discussion as more people look to call the area home.

For Inverness City Manager Eric Williams, growth is inevitable — but it comes with challenges. “It’s a high quality of life here. It’s quiet, and the age dynamic is starting to shift,” Williams told Bay News 9. “You’re naturally going to have growth in Florida, but it comes with a cost.”

Williams points to ongoing city projects, such as courthouse renovations and park improvements, as examples of preparing for the future. Still, he says, infrastructure such as public safety and recreation must keep pace.

Housing affordability remains a major factor drawing new residents. Realtor Judy McCoy with Century 21 tells Spectrum News prices in Citrus County are still well below those in larger metro areas or on the coasts.  “You are living in Florida and paying a reasonable price,” McCoy said. “We’ve always been very affordable — probably one of the most affordable, beautiful places in the state.”

McCoy notes that the local market has experienced steady growth over the past five years, with the post-COVID shift attracting more buyers to the region.

Williams hopes the community can strike a balance between affordability and development while diversifying the economy.  “My goal is to see growth accepted in a measured way,” he said. “We need a healthy mix of working-class opportunities and retirement living.”

With affordability, quality of life, and infrastructure planning all in focus, Citrus County is preparing for a future where people from diverse backgrounds can continue to call it home.

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(Image credit: Matthew Beck/Citrus County Chronicle)

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