Bradenton, Florida, part of the North Port–Sarasota–Bradenton Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), continues to demonstrate strong economic and population growth. In particular, the Bradenton area offers a workforce of over 1.8 million people, a consumer market of more than 8 million, and easy access to highways, rail, a booming airport, and a deepwater seaport connecting it to the rest of the country and the world.
Population Growth
As of 2021, the U.S. Census Bureau estimated the metro population of the North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton MSA at 824,160, with Manatee County—home to Bradenton—accounting for approximately 394,824 residents. Looking ahead, the population for the MSA is forecasted to increase steadily, reaching about 957,100 by 2025 and 982,300 by 2027. This reflects an estimated population growth rate of approximately 2.7% between 2025 and 2027.
Economic Growth
The metro area’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is projected to rise from $45.4 billion (2023) to $48.3 billion in 2025, and reach $51.5 billion by 2028. This steady growth highlights the resilience of the North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota MSA economy.
Source: Florida & Metro Forecast, Winter 2024, Institute for Economic Forecasting
Employment is also expected to show gains growing at an estimated average annual rate of 1.0%. Payroll employment in the region is forecasted to grow from 342,200 in 2023 to 353,400 in 2025, reaching approximately 361,900 by 2028. While the unemployment rate is projected to tick upward slightly—from 3.0% in 2023 to 3.7% in 2025—it is expected to stabilize around 3.8% by 2028, remaining relatively low compared to historical averages.
In particular, the Bradenton area offers employers a regional labor pool of over 1.8 million people, delivering a variety of talents and skills across industries.
Average annual wages are projected to increase from $66,300 in 2023 to approximately $74,400 by 2027. This wage growth, combined with rising personal income levels, supports stronger consumer spending and local business expansion. Meanwhile, Per Capita Income (Ths) is expected to grow from $74,400 in 2023 to $86,300 in 2027, delivering a 16% jump.
Sector-Specific Performance
Home to 5,000+ acres of land adjacent to Seaport Manatee and companies spanning a broad range of industries, the following sectors are known to thrive the Bradenton area:
- Advanced Manufacturing | Bradenton is home to Air Products, Sun Hydraulics, Radiant Powercorp (a Heico company), Tropicana Brands Group, and many more.
- Aviation/Aerospace/Defense | Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) was recently recognized (in February 2025) as the fastest growing airport in Florida and the United States based on passenger traffic growth since 2018. SRQ offers 100+ acres of on-field or near-field airport development. Radiant Power, SAFRAN, Honeycomb, and ITW GSE, among many other aviation/aerospace/defense companies have made the Bradenton area their home.
- Corporate Headquarters | Quality of life is a big draw for corporate headquarters serving as a homebase for First Watch Restaurants among many other companies.
According to the Winter 2025 forecast, the North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota MSA’s Education and Health Services sector is anticipated to be the fastest-growing industry between 2025 and 2028, with a 2.3% average annual growth rate. Construction and Leisure & Hospitality sectors are each forecasted to grow by 1.6% per year, reflecting the area’s ongoing development and its popularity as a tourist and retirement destination.
Source: Florida & Metro Forecast, Winter 2024, Institute for Economic Forecasting
Government employment, both federal and at the state and local levels, is expected to grow modestly, while Professional and Business Services and Trade, Transportation & Utilities sectors will see more modest expansions.
Notable Developments Supporting Growth
Recent investments in the Bradenton area underscore the region’s momentum. Highlights include the following:
- Opening of a new Whole Foods Market at Heritage Harbour, the first Manatee County location in Bradenton.
- The development of the $100 million Marriott Palmetto Resort & Spa adjacent to the Bradenton Area Convention Center.
- A $500 million, 3-million SF Class A industrial campus aimed at serving the private aerospace industry with modern logistics facilities.
- 180-home luxury apartment development in North Port.
These projects are poised to enhance the local economy by boosting tourism, creating jobs, and attracting new residents.
Conclusion
Bradenton’s strong population gains, expanding employment opportunities, and significant investments in both infrastructure and commercial development point to a bright future.
Although certain sectors are expected to shrink, overall economic indicators show a healthy and resilient local economy through 2028. Bradenton and the North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota MSA continue to solidify the region’s position as a dynamic and desirable part of Florida’s economic landscape.
Sources:
- Florida & Metro Forecast, Winter 2024, Institute for Economic Forecasting
- U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts for North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton MSA