The Sun Sentinel is reporting that Broward County's population actually went up from July 2008 to July 2009. The report is based on estimates from the Census Bureau. While it's not noted if this was a 'net gain' (more people moving into the county than leaving)…it's a good sign that the economy might be showing more signs of life. The population exploded in South Florida (and mostly Broward) during the housing bubble and once the bubble popped…so did the new resident numbers. The slow-down in new residents was bad for new condo developers…but it was a good time for area city officials to 'catch their breath' and start planning for the next wave of growth.

Broward's housing prices have dropped to levels not seen in years, so more people can now afford to move into a new house or condo. The unemployment in Broward is also the lowest of the three counties (Palm Beach, Miami-Dade & Broward), which also might be a contributing factor. While the percentages are not huge…it's a start.

According to the report…the cities in Broward showing the highest percentage of growth:
North Lauderdale - increased from 41,795 to 42,608..or +1.9%
Wilton Manors - increased from 12,626 to 12,868 … or +1.9%
Plantation - increased from 83,662 to 84,892 … or +1.4%
Parkland - increased from 23,904 to 24,146… or +1.0%