2026 E-Insights Report
Civic Engagement Rates (Voter Turnout)
- Tampa Bay civic engagement follows a 鈥減eak and correct鈥 pattern. Voter turnout rose from approximately 64% in 2016 to a peak of 70% in 2020, driven by the high-engagement election cycle, before correcting to roughly 67% in 2024. Consequently, the region鈥檚 competitive position slightly eroded; after holding steady at No. 9 from 2016 to 2020, Tampa Bay slipped to No. 11 in 2024, suggesting that while local engagement is healthy, other metros are mobilizing voters at a faster rate.
- Raleigh emerged as the new market leader in 2024, surging to No. 1 with a turnout rate approaching 80%, overtaking traditional strongholds like Minneapolis (which peaked in 2020). Conversely, San Antonio consistently anchored the bottom of the cohort (No. 20), with participation struggling to break 60% (approx. 58% in 2024), highlighting a persistent engagement gap compared to the most active metros.
Trend Over Time
Competitive Position Trend
About: This metric measures the percentage of the voting-eligible population that participated in recent general elections. Definition: Turnout is calculated as the total number of ballots cast divided by the estimated population eligible to vote. It serves as a primary indicator of social capital, political participation, and community involvement. Source: Voter Turnout Rates Among Metropolitan Statistical Areas, UF Election Lab.