HBWeekly

Texas Swimming Pool Construction Trends – Q3 2025

Posted on November 5, 2025 by Erika Carruth

According to HBW’s latest swimming pool construction activity trend report, Texas recorded a total of 5,142 new swimming pool construction permits through the third quarter of 2025. This figure marks an 11% year-over-year decline compared to Q3 2024. While the downward trajectory continues, the rate of decline appears to be moderating: The market experienced a 31% drop in 2023, followed by an 18% decrease in 2024, and now an 11% contraction so far in 2025. This deceleration suggests that the market could be potentially approaching a stabilization phase.

To gain a better understanding of regional dynamics, here is a brief breakdown of the four major metropolitan areas of Texas (Dallas, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio):

Metro Area	Permits (Q3 2025)	YoY Change
Dallas	2,250	-6%
Houston	1,683	-8%
Austin	727	-25%
San Antonio	482	-18%

As noted in the above listed table, Dallas continues to dominate the Texas pool construction market, accounting for nearly 44% of all new permits statewide. Despite a modest 6% year-to-date decline, the region remains a stronghold for residential pool development. Houston follows with 1,683 permits, reflecting an 8% year-over-year decrease, indicating a slightly sharper contraction than Dallas. Austin experienced the steepest decline among the major metros, with a 25% year-over-year drop so far this year, suggesting potential market saturation or shifting consumer priorities in the region. And finally, San Antonio carried the lowest volume of new pool construction with 482 new permits through Q3, reflecting an 18% year-over-year decrease.

County Highlights

Drilling down into county-level data reveals nuanced trends that can inform strategic planning for builders and suppliers:

County	Permits (Q3 2025)	YoY Change
Harris (Houston)	1,142	-5%
Dallas (Dallas)	574	>-25%
Travis (Austin)	569	>-26%
Collin (Dallas)	500	-4%
Denton (Dallas)	451	+23%
Montgomery (Houston)	193	+16%

As noted in the table above, Harris County stands out with the highest volume of new swimming pool permits (1,142 through Q3 2025), underscoring Houston’s continued relevance as a major market despite broader metro-level declines. In contrast, while both counties of Dallas (574 permits) and Travis (569 permits) held higher volumes of new permits, they experienced significant contractions, each posting year-over-year declines exceeding 25%; this mirrors the overall downward trend in their respective metropolitan areas of Dallas and Austin. Meanwhile, Collin County (500 permits) in the Dallas area demonstrated relative stability, with only a 4% decline in permits, suggesting a more resilient local market. Notably, Denton County (451 permits) in the Dallas area emerged as a growth leader, recording a 23% year-over-year increase in new permits, a trend that may reflect heightened residential development or a shift in consumer preferences. Similarly, Montgomery County exhibited encouraging signs of expansion, with a 16% uptick in permit activity, reinforcing the presence of growth pockets within the broader Houston region.

For construction professionals, pool builders, and suppliers, the latest trends in swimming pool permit activity offer valuable insights into shifting regional demand, market saturation levels, and emerging growth opportunities. The statewide deceleration in year-over-year decline suggests that the market may be approaching a correction point, potentially signaling an inflection moment for strategic investment. Notably, suburban counties such as Denton and Montgomery are exhibiting signs of expansion, likely influenced by factors such as population migration, housing affordability, and evolving lifestyle preferences. In response to such developments, builders who engage in ongoing market monitoring may find it advantageous to reallocate resources or broaden their operational footprint into growth-positive areas. Furthermore, the data highlights the importance of granular market intelligence, as county-level permit trends often reveal localized dynamics that broader metropolitan statistics may overlook.

HBW’s Q3 2025 report provides a valuable lens into the evolving landscape of swimming pool construction across Texas. While the overall market continues to contract, the rate of decline appears to be easing, and select counties have displayed signs of growth, which may offer strategic opportunities for industry stakeholders in the future.

To gain more information on the builders, homeowners and permits for the construction activity above, check out HBW for your copy of the latest construction data reports. To gain access to the HBW database and receive custom and detailed reports on the latest residential and commercial building activity in Florida, Georgia, Texas, Alabama, and Oklahoma, please contact HBW for details.

Florida’s Residential Construction Market Through Q3 2025

Posted on October 31, 2025 by Erika Carruth

Florida’s residential construction landscape continues to evolve in 2025, with HBW’s latest Building Activity Trend Report offering a comprehensive snapshot of permitting activity across six major regions through the third quarter. While the statewide total of 79,044 new residential construction permits reflects a 6% year-over-year decline, the nuances within regional and county-level data reveal a more complex and instructive narrative.

Statewide Trends:

The 6% statewide decrease in new residential permits through Q3 2025 may initially suggest a softening market. However, when contextualized against prior years—2022’s 5% decline, 2023’s sharper 14% drop, and 2024’s flat performance—the current figure appears less alarming. It may indicate a market in transition rather than contraction. With one quarter remaining, this modest decline could either stabilize or reverse, depending on factors such as interest rates, labor availability, and consumer confidence.

Regional Performance:

West Florida leads the state in total permits, marking a notable 11% increase in comparison to Q3 2024. This uptick is particularly significant given the region’s three-year downward trajectory, reversing prior declines of 4% (2022), 12% (2023), and 12% (2024). The resurgence may signal renewed developer confidence or improved market fundamentals. Southwest Florida and Northeast Florida both experienced double-digit declines, with Northeast Florida’s 26% drop being the most pronounced; such figures may reflect saturation in certain submarkets or shifting demand patterns. Central Florida posted a healthy 8% year-over-year increase, suggesting steady growth and resilience in the face of broader statewide headwinds.

County-Level Highlights

While regional data provides a macro view, county-level analysis uncovers micro-markets that are outperforming or stabilizing.

Counties with Notable Growth:

Pasco County (West Florida): 5,408 permits, +70% YoY — a standout performer, likely driven by infrastructure expansion and affordability.
Osceola County (Central Florida): 2,088 permits, +30% YoY — indicative of strong demand in Orlando’s commuter belt.
Sumter County (West Florida): 3,244 permits, +23% YoY — benefiting from active adult and retirement community development.
Lake County (Central Florida): ~2,600 permits, +9% YoY — steady growth in suburban corridors.
Miami-Dade County (Southeast Florida): 1,522 permits, +35% YoY — an uptick in a traditionally high-cost market.

Counties with Declines (but High Volume):

Polk County (West Florida): 5,586 permits, −21% YoY | Although higher volume, the decline suggests possible cooling demand or permit delays.
Marion County (Northeast Florida): 4,011 permits, −19% YoY
Manatee County (Southwest Florida): 3,518 permits, −22% YoY
Duval County (Northeast Florida): 3,040 permits, −22% YoY | The decline reflects a significant drop in Jacksonville’s core.
Hillsborough County (West Florida): 3,395 permits, −1% YoY | Hillsborough is proving to be a stable market so far this year, with minimal fluctuation.
Lee County (Southwest Florida): 7,085 permits, −1% YoY | Lee County is maintaining high volume despite slight contraction.

Third-quarter data can serve as a bellwether for annual performance, especially in Florida’s climate-sensitive construction cycle. With Q3 behind us, the 6% statewide decline may not be definitive. Several counties are exhibiting strong momentum, and West Florida’s rebound could buoy year-end figures. However, declines in key regions like Northeast and Southwest Florida suggest that structural challenges may remain.

Overall, Florida’s residential construction market through Q3 2025 presents a nuanced picture. While the statewide decline may raise eyebrows, the underlying data reveals pockets of robust growth and signs of recovery in previously lagging regions. As the final quarter unfolds, stakeholders should remain agile, leveraging granular insights to make informed decisions in a dynamic environment that presents both promising opportunities and evolving conditions.

Texas Top Home Builders – September 2025

Posted on October 29, 2025 by Erika Carruth

Last month, the residential construction market in the Lone Star State demonstrated robust activity across its four major metro areas—Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio. According to HBW’s latest construction data reports, a total of 6,939 new residential construction permits were issued statewide, representing approximately $2.35 billion in total construction value. This snapshot offers valuable insight into regional market dynamics, builder performance, and permit volume trends that can inform strategic planning for developers, suppliers, and investors.

Given the distinct levels of activity across each region, it is essential to examine the data through a localized lens. For this reason, here is a quick view of the top-performing home builders in each of the four major metro areas of Texas during the month of September:

Houston: Leading the State in Volume

Houston continues to dominate Texas’ residential construction landscape, accounting for more than half of the state’s total permits in September.

Total Permits: 3,611
Active Builders: ~370

Top Builders by Permit Volume:

Lennar Homes: 744 permits | Avg. Value: $238,766
D.R. Horton: 561 permits | Avg. Value: $272,404
Perry Homes: 199 permits | Avg. Value: $331,977
Westin Homes: 109 permits | Avg. Value: $266,366
KB Homes: 97 permits | Avg. Value: $248,743

Houston’s high permit volume reflects strong demand and a competitive builder landscape. Lennar and D.R. Horton continue to lead in production-scale development, while Perry Homes appears to maintain a foothold in higher-value segments.

Dallas: Balancing Volume and Value

Dallas recorded 2,263 new permits in September, supported by nearly 350 active builders. The region shows a balanced mix of volume and elevated construction values.

Top Builders by Permit Volume:

Lennar Homes: 254 permits | Avg. Value: $317,351
D.R. Horton: 185 permits | Avg. Value: $299,437
Trophy Signature Homes: 87 permits | Avg. Value: $371,157
First Texas Homes: 78 permits | Avg. Value: $463,338
M/I Homes: 72 permits | Avg. Value: $412,917

Dallas builders are trending toward mid-to-upper tier residential products, with First Texas Homes and M/I Homes pushing average values well above $400K.

Austin:

Austin’s residential market remains smaller in volume but competitive in value, with 600 permits issued by 70 active contractors.

Top Builders by Permit Volume:

D.R. Horton: 67 permits | Avg. Value: $320,425
Lennar Homes: 49 permits | Avg. Value: $248,716
Starlight Homes Texas: 48 permits | Avg. Value: $334,761
M/I Homes: 37 permits | Avg. Value: $294,886
The Brohn Group: 34 permits | Avg. Value: $159,412

Austin’s market favors a blend of entry-level and mid-market homes, with D.R. Horton and Starlight Homes leading in volume and value.

San Antonio:

San Antonio issued 465 permits in September, with approximately 80 builders contributing to the activity during the one-month period.

Top Builders by Permit Volume:

Lennar Homes: 102 permits | Avg. Value: $181,357
D.R. Horton: 51 permits | Avg. Value: $210,816
KB Homes: 28 permits | Avg. Value: $189,100
Continental Homes of Texas: 25 permits | Avg. Value: $153,465
Perry Homes: 23 permits | Avg. Value: $401,958

San Antonio’s market is characterized by affordability-driven development, with Lennar and D.R. Horton dominating the entry-level segment. Perry Homes stands out for its premium offerings for the month.

Market Takeaways

Lennar Homes emerged as the #1 top builder statewide, leading in all four metros with a combined total of 1,149 permits.
D.R. Horton followed closely with strong presence across all regions, totaling 864 permits.
Builders like Perry Homes, M/I Homes, and Trophy Signature Homes are carving out niches in higher-value segments.
Permit volume remains a key indicator of builder activity, while average construction value offers insight into product positioning and market segmentation.

As Texas continues to be a national leader in residential construction, tracking permit activity offers a real-time view into market momentum and builder strategy. September’s data confirms that volume leaders like Lennar and D.R. Horton remain dominant forces, while regional players continue to shape the evolving landscape of Texas homebuilding.

Florida’s Top Home Builders – September 2025

Posted on October 24, 2025 by Erika Carruth

Florida’s residential construction market showed steady strength in September 2025 (see previous post), with thousands of new building permits pulled across the state’s five major regions: Southwest Florida, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Southeast Florida. According to HBW’s latest construction data—compiled from verified building permits—Lennar Homes, Pulte Homes, and D.R. Horton continue to lead the state’s residential landscape, while several regional builders made noteworthy showings in higher-value markets.

Southwest Florida

The Gulf Coast remains Florida’s volume leader, accounting for the highest number of new home permits statewide.

Lennar Homes took the top spot with 336 permits valued at more than $81.9 million (average $244K per home).
Pulte Homes followed with 231 permits at an average of approximately $210K.
Neal Communities, D.R. Horton, and Taylor Morrison rounded out the top five.

Tampa

The Tampa area continued to balance high permit volume with climbing home values.

Lennar Homes held the lead for the month, pulling 320 permits valued at $119.6 million—an average of $374K per unit.
D.R. Horton ranked second with 201 permits, while Homes by West Bay stood out for its premium average value exceeding $514K.

Other notable builders for the month include Pulte Homes and The Villages of Lake Sumter as they had 92 and 75 new residential construction permits on record respectively.

Orlando

Central Florida maintained a strong mid-range performance.

Pulte Homes ranked first with 155 permits valued in excess of $50.2 million.
Lennar Homes (123 permits), D.R. Horton (86 permits), KB Homes (63 permits), and K. Hovnanian (49 permits) completed the top five, with K. Hovnanian reporting one of the higher average values at nearly $400K.

The Orlando market remains balanced—accessible in price but offering increasing opportunities for premium builds.

Southeast Florida

Southeast Florida’s market reflects lower volume but far higher unit values, consistent with the region’s concentration of coastal and luxury housing.

Lennar Homes led by volume with 111 permits, though its average value ($214K) trailed that of smaller competitors.
D.R. Horton ranked second with 43 permits and an average value of nearly $254K.
KH East Coastal FL Homes achieved the highest average value out of the top five builders in the region—$654K per project—on just 25 permits.
GL Building Corporation (28 permits) and Pulte Homes (31 permits) also posted strong luxury numbers.

This region caters to the custom-home and coastal market, requiring specialized trades and higher-end materials. For industry professionals, Southeast Florida offers fewer builds but greater complexity and margins.

Jacksonville

The Jacksonville area continued to offer new residents affordable options.

Lennar Homes led with 131 permits averaging $238K, followed by Dream Finders Construction (80 permits) and Pulte Homes (61 permits), both averaging around $255K–$310K.
D.R. Horton and Mattamy Homes rounded out the top five list having 50 and 45 new permits on record for the month respectively.

With average values well below those in South Florida, Jacksonville remains a cost-efficient market that favors builders and subcontractors specializing in streamlined production.

Statewide View

Several builders continue to dominate across multiple regions, giving them a commanding statewide presence:

Lennar Homes led by permit count in four regions (Southeast, Southwest, Tampa, Jacksonville), solidifying its position as Florida’s most active builder for September 2025.
Pulte Homes placed in the top five in all five regions, illustrating both depth and range.
D.R. Horton appeared in the top five in all regions as well, maintaining strong competitive momentum.

For subcontractors and suppliers, the multi-regional leaders represent opportunities for consistent pipelines, while regional specialists such as Neal Communities and KH East Coastal Florida Homes offer localized work.

Florida’s residential construction scene in September 2025 reflects both strength and segmentation. The dominance of Lennar, Pulte, and D.R. Horton underscores the power of scale, while regional firms show there is still room for specialization and design-driven differentiation. Whether your business thrives on quantity or craftsmanship, understanding where each builder is investing gives you the competitive edge to plan, partner, and grow.

Florida New Swimming Pool Construction – September 2025

Posted on October 22, 2025 by Erika Carruth

According to the latest construction data reports from HBW, there were strong levels of new swimming pool construction activity across Florida last month, with thousands of permits and hundreds of millions of dollars in total construction value issued statewide. The reports provide insight into market performance across the five major regions of Southwest, Southeast, Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville, revealing both geographic trends and valuation differences among local markets.

Statewide Overview

During the month of September 2025, HBW identified a total of 2,460 new swimming pool construction permits across Florida, reflecting a combined construction value of nearly $207 million. The average value of new pool construction statewide was approximately $84k per project (weighted average), indicating continued investment in high-end and custom pool installations across the state’s residential sector.

When using the reports to identify patterns and construction activity within specific regions, the breakdown of data is as follows:

Southwest Florida

The Southwest region led the state for the month, with 853 new swimming pool construction permits and a total construction value of $72.1 million. The average value of new pool construction in the region was $84,544. The counties with the highest volume of new permits included:

Sarasota County: 226 permits with a total value of approximately $19.9 million
Lee County: 252 permits totaling more than $19.9 million

The Southwest region continues to be a leader in luxury residential construction, driven by steady population growth and demand for outdoor living amenities in coastal communities.

Southeast Florida

The Southeast region ranked second statewide, having 528 new pool permits with a total value of $40.7 million and an average construction value of $77,067. More than half of all new permits originated from the following counties:

Palm Beach County: 138 permits valued at $11.7 million
Miami-Dade County: 152 permits totaling approximately $7.46 million

Southeast Florida’s performance reflects a mature and stable market, with a mix of new residential developments across major coastal counties.

Tampa

In the Tampa area, there were 432 new swimming pool construction permits with a total value of $37.1 million, bringing the average value per project to $85,970 — one of the highest among the regions reviewed. Just over half of all new construction took place in the following counties:

Hillsborough County: 115 permits valued at $12.0 million
Pasco County: 103 permits totaling approximately $11.1 million

The Tampa market continues to reflect mid- to high-range pool construction activity, demonstrating healthy activity in both established and suburban areas.

Orlando

The Orlando region recorded 384 new swimming pool construction permits for a total construction value of $28.6 million, with an average value of $74,491 per project. The three counties that carried the majority of new construction activity include:

Orange County: 88 permits valued at $7.52 million
Lake County: 84 permits totaling $4.65 million
Brevard County: 83 permits valued at $5.95 million

From a monthly perspective, Florida’s pool market remains steady, bolstered by continued residential development and a strong demand for resort-style amenities in family-oriented communities.

Jacksonville

Last month, the Jacksonville area had 263 new swimming pool construction permits with a total construction value of $28.2 million, resulting in the highest regional average value statewide at $107,223 per project. As per usual, the bulk of new construction activity took place in the two counties of Duval and St. Johns:

Duval County: 52 permits valued at $7.24 million
St. Johns County: 121 permits totaling $13.74 million

Higher average values in the Jacksonville area suggest strong activity in luxury custom pool projects and high-end residential developments, particularly within St. Johns County.

Overall, Florida’s swimming pool construction market in September 2025 reflects continued strength in residential investment and lifestyle upgrades, particularly in coastal and high-growth suburban counties. The Southwest region maintained its lead in total volume, while Jacksonville posted the highest average construction values, highlighting regional variations in both scale and project type.

As population growth, home improvement spending, and outdoor living trends persist across Florida, the demand for custom pool construction is expected to remain strong through the end of the year.

HBW Report: Texas Swimming Pool Construction Up 18% Month-Over-Month

Posted on October 18, 2025 by Erika Carruth

According to the latest construction data reports from HBW, new swimming pool construction in Texas saw a notable increase in September 2025. With 653 new permits on record statewide, activity rose by approximately 18 percent compared to August, when 553 new pool construction permits were added to the books. The combined construction value for the month of September was approximately $50.4 million, reflecting steady consumer demand and a strong finish to the summer building season.

Dallas Leads in Total Permits and Construction Value

The Dallas area once again topped the charts for new swimming pool construction when looking at volume. Out of nearly 300 permits recorded across the region, the combined construction value reached more than $22.6 million, with an average value of approximately $76,655 per pool.

Within the metro area, Dallas and Tarrant counties carried the highest concentration of activity:

Dallas County: 88 permits totaling $6.9 million
Tarrant County: 65 permits totaling $5.86 million

The data suggests that homeowners across North Texas continue to invest in outdoor living spaces, a trend that has held strong over the past several years.

Houston Follows with Strong Momentum

In Houston, new pool construction also remained solid, accounting for just over 210 new permits with a total construction value of $19.1 million and an average value of $90,599 per project—the highest average among the four major metro areas.

Harris County represented the bulk of the activity, with 138 new permits and a total construction value of $13.4 million. This sustained demand in the Houston market reflects both population growth and homeowners’ continued investment in residential amenities amid Texas’s long warm-weather season.

Austin and San Antonio Reflect Steady Regional Activity

In Austin, there were 91 new pool permits in September, with a total value of $5.8 million and an average construction value of $63,739. The majority of the month’s permits originated from Travis County, which accounted for 75 permits totaling $3.9 million in construction value.

Meanwhile, San Antonio reported 56 new pool permits with a combined value of $2.82 million and an average construction value of $50,445. Nearly all of this activity was concentrated in Bexar County, which accounted for 48 permits and nearly $2.5 million in total value.

Across all four major metro areas—Dallas, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio—swimming pool construction continues to reflect steady residential investment across Texas’s fastest-growing communities. The rise in September permit volume suggests that homeowner confidence and demand for outdoor leisure amenities remain strong heading into the fall.

While monthly trends can fluctuate based on seasonality, weather, and economic conditions, year-over-year and quarterly data provide a deeper view of long-term market movement and regional opportunities. HBW’s comprehensive construction reports are designed to give builders, contractors, and industry professionals access to the detailed insights needed to track market performance, identify new leads, and plan ahead with confidence.

The information referenced in this report is based on construction permit data collected and verified by HBW, a leading source for building activity reports across the southern United States. Detailed historical, quarterly, and annual reports are available to subscribers and are regularly featured in the HBW blog.

Metro Atlanta Swimming Pool Construction Trends Through Q3-2025

Posted on October 15, 2025 by Erika Carruth

According to the latest HBW Swimming Pool Construction Activity Trend Report for the Metro Atlanta area, a total of 1,995 new swimming pool construction permits have been added to the HBW database through the third quarter of 2025. This figure represents a -2% year-over-year decrease in new pool construction activity across the region.

While the downward trend in permit totals continues, the rate of decline appears to be stabilizing compared to previous years. In 2022, swimming pool construction fell by 8% year-over-year, followed by a more substantial 26% decrease in 2023, and a 13% decrease in 2024. The current -2% dip suggests that market conditions may be leveling out, with signs of balance returning to residential pool construction activity in the metro area.

Quarterly Activity Overview

So far this year, activity has remained fairly steady quarter to quarter:

Q1 2025: 588 new swimming pool permits
Q2 2025: 759 new swimming pool permits
Q3 2025: 648 new swimming pool permits

While second-quarter activity remains the strongest, the third quarter maintained solid volume, signaling continued homeowner investment in outdoor living and residential improvements despite broader market fluctuations.

Top Counties for Swimming Pool Construction

Among the 24 counties included in the Metro Atlanta region, several continue to dominate in total permit volume through the third quarter of 2025:

Fulton County: 387 permits
Cobb County: 205 permits
Cherokee County: 195 permits
Forsyth County: 165 permits
Gwinnett County: 145 permits
Coweta County: 141 permits

The above listed counties account for a significant portion of the region’s overall pool construction activity, reflecting sustained demand in high-growth suburban markets.

Counties with Growth in 2025

Although overall regional activity is slightly down, several counties have posted year-to-date gains compared to 2024:

Cherokee County: Up 13% year-over-year with 195 new permits
Forsyth County: Up 9% year-over-year with 165 new permits
Walton County: Up 5% year-over-year with 96 new permits

Such localized increases suggest that while the broader market may be leveling out, certain suburban areas continue to experience healthy residential expansion and outdoor living investment.

At this stage of the year, reviewing third-quarter figures offers valuable insight into market trajectory heading into Q4 and early 2026. While total activity remains slightly lower than in 2024, the smaller margin of decline indicates a potential shift toward stabilization after several years of significant slowdown.

Information utilized for the above listed figures for Metro Atlanta swimming pool construction was directly derived from HBW construction data reports. To gain access to the HBW database and receive custom and detailed reports on the latest residential and commercial building activity in Florida, Georgia, Texas, Alabama, and Oklahoma, please contact HBW for details.

Source: HBW Database – Metro Atlanta Swimming Pool Construction Activity Trend Report (Q3-2025)

Tracking Florida’s Residential Construction Activity: September 2025

Posted on October 10, 2025 by Erika Carruth

According to the latest HBW construction data reports, Florida’s residential construction market held strong in September 2025, with builders filing approximately 6,670 new residential construction permits across five major regions — Southwest, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Southeast Florida; this reflects approximately a 15 percent month-over-month increase in new residential construction activity. The total construction value for the month exceeded $2.3 billion, underscoring continued strength in homebuilding activity across the state despite broader market adjustments.

With over two thousand permits separating the most and least active regions, Florida’s housing construction remains heavily regionalized — shaped by local demand, population migration, and development capacity. Southwest Florida once again led the state for total permits, while Southeast Florida, though smaller in volume, recorded the highest average value per project, reflecting the region’s concentration of luxury and high-end construction.

The regional breakdown is as follows:

Southwest Florida: Leading the State in Volume

Total Permits: 2,288
Total Value: $763.8 million
Average Value per Permit: $333,825

Southwest Florida continues to dominate the state’s residential construction activity. The region accounted for more than one-third of all new permits statewide. Manatee County was among the top-performing areas with 584 permits valued at approximately $168.5 million, while Lee County was top-ranked with 878 permits totaling $256.5 million.

Tampa Region

Total Permits: 1,785
Total Value: $637.1 million
Average Value per Permit: $356,902

The Tampa area held its position as one of Florida’s most active construction markets. Polk County led the region with 544 permits valued at $186.4 million, followed by Pasco County with 471 permits totaling $204.7 million.

Orlando Region: High Value and Steady Output

Total Permits: 1,079
Total Value: $397.1 million
Average Value per Permit: $368,029

The Orlando area remained a steady performer in September, with permit totals proving to be somewhat consistent with recent months. Lake County issued 312 permits with a total value of approximately $74.2 million, while Brevard County reported 284 permits totaling $116.4 million. The region’s steady growth continues to be driven by suburban expansion, infrastructure improvements, and ongoing development in outlying counties surrounding the metro core.

Jacksonville Region:

Total Permits: 953
Total Value: $254.2 million
Average Value per Permit: $266,708

Northeast Florida remained active, with construction spread across established and emerging communities. Duval County led with 308 permits valued at $54.9 million, while St. Johns County followed with 292 permits and a total value of $80.3 million. Although average project values continue to remain lowest compared to other regions reviewed, Jacksonville’s affordability continues to attract steady residential development and sustained population growth.

Southeast Florida: High-End Market Influence

Total Permits: 563
Total Value: $268.5 million
Average Value per Permit: $476,867

While Southeast Florida recorded the lowest number of new permits for the month, it stood out for its high average value per project—nearly half a million dollars per new home. St. Lucie County led with 178 permits valued at $57.7 million, followed by Miami-Dade County with 133 permits totaling $53.1 million. The region’s numbers reflect its focus on luxury residential projects, high land costs, and the limited availability of new development parcels compared to inland and northern markets.

Key Takeaways

Florida’s new residential construction market continues to exhibit strong fundamentals — high permit activity, consistent construction values, and clear regional distinctions that offer insight into where growth opportunities remain strongest.

Southwest Florida remains a volume leader, which could be ideal for builders focused on scale and subdivision development.
Southeast Florida’s high-value projects signal ongoing demand for luxury and coastal construction.
Tampa and Orlando reflect some balance, combining high activity with solid value performance.
Jacksonville continues to expand as an affordable alternative for both buyers and builders seeking sustainable growth markets.

As the state closes out the third quarter of 2025, Florida’s residential construction data suggests continued confidence among builders and developers, as well as opportunities for sales and marketing teams to target markets where both permit volume and construction investment remain strong.

Source: HBW Construction Data Reports – Florida Residential Construction, September 2025

Metro Atlanta New Residential Construction Update: Q3 2025

Posted on October 7, 2025 by Erika Carruth

As we look back on the first three quarters of 2025, metro Atlanta’s new residential permitting landscape offers both cautionary signals and bright spots. Based on the latest HBW Building Activity Trend Report, total permit counts in the 24-county metro region through Q3 stand at 15,518 new residential permits, reflecting a –10 % year-to-date decline compared to the same period in 2024.

The –10 % YTD slip in permits underscores a moderation in builder activity, perhaps tied to macro-headwinds such as elevated financing costs, material inflation, labor constraints, and cautious buyer demand. As permit issuance is frequently viewed as a leading indicator of groundbreakings and starts, this slide may reflect a dampened pipeline for late-2025 and early 2026.

It is useful to view 2025 in the context of recent years:

2022: –18 % year-over-year decline
2023: –7 % year-over-year decline
2024: +6 % year-over-year rebound

The modest rebound in 2024 suggested stabilization after the sharper drop in 2022. However, the current downtrend in 2025 indicates that momentum remains fragile, and that builder sentiment is again under pressure.

Leading Counties

Despite the overall decline, certain counties continue to dominate in volume:

County	Permits (YTD Q3 2025)	Notes / Rank
Gwinnett	2,376	Top volumetric contributor
Cherokee	1,235	Among top three
Fulton	1,200	Strong urban core share
Hall	1,117	Among leading counties
Forsyth	1,038	Solid performance on par with metro YTD change

The above listed counties account for a large share of overall metro permit activity. Their sustained volume underscores the ongoing importance of the suburban growth corridor around I-85, I-75, and the exurban fringes.

Areas of Relative Growth

Even against a backdrop of decline, some counties display positive momentum—potentially redrawing attention from builders seeking more favorable markets.

Hall County: 1,117 permits through Q3, up +9 % over the same period last year.
Barrow County: 806 permits, demonstrating a +27 % year-over-year increase.
Carroll County: 430 permits, up +15 % versus Q3 2024 (notably, last year Carroll had exhibited a +23 % gain).

The counties listed above may merit closer tracking as possible growth pockets, especially if builders are shifting capacity outward.

The –10% year-to-date drop through Q3 suggests that builders are showing some restraint, likely in response to tighter margins, higher interest rates, and more cautious absorption forecasts. One way to look at it is that 2025 may simply be a “rebalancing” year following last year’s rebound—a period where activity cools slightly rather than contracts sharply, as builders and buyers alike adjust to ongoing cost pressures. Another possible narrative is that we’re seeing a quiet shift in strategy, with builders redirecting focus from saturated or high-cost core counties toward more affordable and less regulated exurban areas such as Barrow, Carroll, and Hall.

For construction industry professionals, the current permitting trends point to the importance of staying flexible and forward-thinking. Firms should remain agile in reallocating crews, materials, and bidding resources, especially as certain counties deviate positively from metro-wide norms and present fresh opportunities for targeted prospecting. Rather than concentrating exclusively on high-volume markets such as Gwinnett, Fulton, and Cherokee, it may be worthwhile to explore rising counties like Hall, Barrow, and Carroll, where growth pockets seem to be emerging. Due to the fact that permitting activity typically lags behind actual construction starts by several months, builders would be wise to stress-test their 2026 forecasts to prepare for potential delays or shifts in workload. Additionally, maintaining close communication with local planning and permitting departments can be advantageous, as some counties may respond to slower permitting activity by offering new incentives or streamlining approval processes.

Overall, metro Atlanta’s new residential permit activity has cooled (thru Q3 2025), relative to 2024 levels. Yet the picture is not uniformly negative: pockets of growth in Hall, Barrow, and Carroll Counties suggest selective opportunities. As permit issuance is an early barometer of forthcoming construction starts, contractors, developers, and suppliers should calibrate their strategies carefully and maintain flexibility across markets and project types.

Information utilized for the above listed figures for Metro Atlanta residential construction was directly derived from HBW construction data reports. To gain access to the HBW database and receive custom and detailed reports on the latest residential and commercial building activity in Florida, Georgia, Texas, Alabama, and Oklahoma, please contact HBW for details.

Permit Data 101: How to Read, Understand, and Use It

Posted on October 3, 2025 by Erika Carruth

In the world of construction, data is more than just numbers—it’s insight, opportunity, and competitive advantage. One of the most valuable resources available to builders, remodelers, and contractors is building permit data. Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking for a refresher or someone just starting to explore how permit data can fuel business development, understanding the fundamentals is essential. This starter guide is designed to get back to the basics, serving as both an introduction and a lasting reference you can return to when needed.

What Is Building Permit Data?

At its core, building permit data is the information recorded when a property owner or contractor applies for a permit to begin construction, renovation, or repair work. Local municipalities issue permits to ensure that projects meet safety codes, zoning laws, and other regulations. Every time a permit is pulled, a public record is created, and that record often includes key details such as:

Permit number and date issued
Project type (new construction, remodeling, roofing, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, pool installation, etc.)
Property location (address, jurisdiction, county, or region)
Contractor information (builder, subcontractor, or applicant name)
Estimated construction value
Project scope (square footage, number of units, or type of work to be performed)

For construction professionals, information of this nature is invaluable. It not only shows where projects are happening, but also who is working on them and what type of demand exists in the market.

Types of Building Permits

Not all permits are created equal, and understanding the different types can help you make the most of the data. Some of the most common categories include:

New Residential Construction Permits – This covers the building of new homes, subdivisions, or multi-family units.
Remodeling and Renovation Permits – Issued for interior or exterior upgrades, additions, or home improvements.
Commercial Construction Permits – For office buildings, retail spaces, industrial facilities, and other non-residential structures.
Specialty Permits – Covering specific trades such as roofing, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work.
Swimming Pool Permits – Often tracked separately because of their significance in certain regions.

Each type of permit reveals different market signals. For example, an increase in new residential permits may suggest growing demand for subcontractors, while a surge in renovation permits may indicate an opportunity for remodelers and suppliers.

Building permit data is a forward-looking indicator of construction activity. Unlike completed project reports, permits are filed before the work even begins. This makes them a unique tool for predicting upcoming demand, identifying active contractors, and uncovering opportunities before the competition. Builders are able to spot where new subdivisions are breaking ground, remodelers can see which neighborhoods are investing in upgrades, and subcontractors can connect with general contractors before projects commence.

How to Use Building Permit Data

On the HBW blog, we have explored various ways that building permit data can be used to improve marketing, increase sales and development, and more. For many professionals, the challenge is in understanding how to apply the data strategically. Here are just a few practical ways it can be used:

Market Research: Identify regions with strong growth trends by analyzing the volume and value of permits issued.
Sales Prospecting: Use contractor and property owner information to build targeted prospect lists.
Competitive Analysis: See which contractors are winning jobs and track shifts in market share.
Business Planning: Align staffing, materials, and marketing investments with areas of high construction activity.

When used consistently, permit data provides a clear, real-time view of the construction landscape, helping businesses move from reactive to proactive decision-making.

While municipalities publish permits, the raw data can be difficult to interpret without the right tools; that’s where providers of permit data and construction reports play an important role. By compiling, cleaning, and analyzing permit records across regions, a data provider like HBW can deliver insights that are accurate, timely, and actionable. This allows builders, remodelers, and contractors to focus on what they do best—winning jobs and completing projects—without spending valuable time sorting through scattered public records.

Whether you are new to HBW or have been a subscriber for years, understanding the basics ensures that you are maximizing the value of your resources. By mastering the fundamentals, you position your business to identify trends more clearly, target prospects more effectively, and ultimately, create lasting opportunities.

For more information on construction business development and marketing tips, stay connected with the HBW Blog. To get ahead of construction activity and gain access to the latest permitting data in Florida, Texas, Georgia, Alabama and Oklahoma, contact HBW for more information on construction data reports and industry leads.