Population Government data
The Gainesville area's population grew 11.4% from 2020 to 2025 (203,382 → 226,568), ranking #24 of 387 metros for growth (typical metro +2.5%). People moving in (net +18,845) account for most of the change.
Census Bureau population estimates, July 1 of each year, 2020–2025.
New homes permitted Government data
New-home permits in Gainesville are down 11% from 2021 to 2025 (2,249 → 1,996). Permits are a sign of construction activity, not a count of open jobs.
Census Building Permits Survey, annual 2021–2025.
Local housing Government data
The Gainesville area has about 84,567 homes. 21% were built before 1980 (typical metro 45%), so its housing is newer than most; 26% were built in 2010 or later. 70% of households own their home, and the median home value is $388,000.
Census American Community Survey, 2024 1-year estimates (table DP04).
Highest-paying trades
All 23 trades
Click a column to sort. Jobs are employment estimates, not open positions.
| Trade | Median pay | Jobs | U.S. rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical Lineworker | $82,190 | 80 | #174 |
| Construction Supervisor | $76,730 | 560 | #206 |
| Building Inspector | $75,160 | 120 | #102 |
| Telecom Equipment Installer | $73,750 | 100 | #70 |
| Industrial Machinery Mechanic | $64,150 | 430 | #187 |
| Electrician | $58,330 | 310 | #286 |
| Diesel Mechanic | $57,100 | 250 | #290 |
| Machinist | $55,620 | 210 | #208 |
| Auto Mechanic | $55,330 | 440 | #94 |
| HVAC Technician | $53,310 | 330 | #297 |
| Plumber | $51,170 | 210 | #337 |
| Auto Body Repairer | $49,960 | 60 | #207 |
| Maintenance Technician | $49,350 | 1,220 | #152 |
| Glazier | $48,450 | 40 | #104 |
| Welder | $48,430 | 890 | #305 |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $48,350 | 300 | #318 |
| Sheet Metal Worker | $47,880 | 50 | #230 |
| Painter | $47,180 | 50 | #200 |
| Carpenter | $46,260 | 180 | #353 |
| Concrete Finisher | $45,810 | 50 | #289 |
| Pest Control Technician | $38,410 | 80 | #182 |
| Construction Laborer | $38,280 | 600 | #333 |
| Landscaper | $36,880 | 780 | #236 |
Pay: BLS OEWS, May 2025 (metro-level). Real pay: BEA price parities, 2024. How we calculate
Nearby metros
See every metro in Georgia.