Florida, in the southeastern U.S., is known as the “Sunshine State” for its warm weather and beautiful beaches. With a population of around 22 million, it is one of the most populous states. Tallahassee is the capital, while Jacksonville, known for its extensive river system, is the largest city.
10 Largest Cities in Florida
1. Jacksonville (Florida)
City Facts
- County: Duval County
- Area: 874.46 square miles
- Population: 954,614 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 904
- Zip Codes: 32099, 32201-32290
- Latitude: 30.332184
- Longitude: -81.655651
Location and History:
Jacksonville is located in northeastern Florida, along the St. Johns River, just a few miles inland from the Atlantic Ocean. It was originally settled by the French in 1562, followed by the Spanish, who established the settlement of San Mateo. In 1822, it was named Jacksonville after General Andrew Jackson, who would become the seventh U.S. President. Jacksonville grew rapidly after the Civil War, becoming an important center for commerce and transportation in the South. In 1968, the city and Duval County consolidated, making Jacksonville one of the largest cities by area in the U.S. Today, it is known for its vibrant arts scene, military presence, and shipping industry.
Major Landmarks:
- Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens: Featuring over 2,000 animals and a botanical garden.
- Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens: Showcasing art from various eras, with beautiful riverfront gardens.
- Riverside Arts Market: A popular weekly market offering local art, food, and live entertainment along the river.
- TIAA Bank Field: Home of the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars and a venue for concerts and events.
Major Highways:
Jacksonville is a major transportation hub served by Interstate 95, which runs north-south, connecting the city to Miami and Savannah, Georgia. Interstate 10 runs east-west from Jacksonville to Los Angeles, and Interstate 295 provides a loop around the city. U.S. Route 1 and U.S. Route 17 are also important north-south routes, while State Route 202 (Butler Boulevard) provides access to the beaches. These highways make Jacksonville a key crossroads in the southeastern United States.
2. Miami (Florida)
City Facts
- County: Miami-Dade County
- Area: 56.07 square miles
- Population: 442,241 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 305, 786
- Zip Codes: 33101-33299
- Latitude: 25.761680
- Longitude: -80.191790
Location and History:
Miami is located on the southeastern coast of Florida, bordered by Biscayne Bay and the Everglades. It was incorporated as a city in 1896, largely due to the efforts of businesswoman Julia Tuttle, who convinced railroad tycoon Henry Flagler to extend his rail line to the area. Miami quickly grew as a tourist destination due to its warm climate and proximity to the Caribbean. In the 20th century, Miami became a major cultural and economic center, driven by tourism, international trade, and a large influx of Cuban immigrants following the Cuban Revolution. Today, Miami is known for its multiculturalism, vibrant arts scene, and status as a global city.
Major Landmarks:
- South Beach: A famous neighborhood known for its Art Deco architecture, nightlife, and sandy beaches.
- Vizcaya Museum and Gardens: A historic estate and gardens showcasing Mediterranean-style architecture.
- Wynwood Walls: An outdoor museum featuring large-scale street art and murals by artists from around the world.
- Miami Design District: A hub for high-end shopping, galleries, and contemporary art.
Major Highways:
Miami is connected by Interstate 95, which runs north-south through the city, linking it to Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach. Interstate 395 and Interstate 195 provide access to Miami Beach and the barrier islands. Florida’s Turnpike is a major toll road running north-south, connecting Miami to Orlando. U.S. Route 1 (Biscayne Boulevard) runs through the city, providing local access, while State Road 836 (Dolphin Expressway) links downtown Miami to Miami International Airport and western suburbs. These highways are crucial for Miami’s role as a global city and transportation hub.
3. Tampa (Florida)
City Facts
- County: Hillsborough County
- Area: 175.28 square miles
- Population: 398,173 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 813, 656
- Zip Codes: 33601-33694
- Latitude: 27.950575
- Longitude: -82.457178
Location and History:
Tampa is located on the west coast of Florida, along Tampa Bay. The area was initially inhabited by indigenous peoples, and later explored by the Spanish in the early 16th century. Tampa was established as a military outpost in 1824, and its growth accelerated with the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century. The city’s economy was historically based on cigar manufacturing and phosphate mining. Today, Tampa is a major business center with a strong presence in finance, healthcare, and tourism. Its location on the Gulf of Mexico and rich history have made it a popular destination for both residents and visitors.
Major Landmarks:
- Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: A popular amusement park known for its thrilling roller coasters and African-themed animal exhibits.
- Tampa Riverwalk: A scenic pedestrian trail along the Hillsborough River, featuring parks, museums, and restaurants.
- The Florida Aquarium: A large aquarium showcasing marine life from Florida and around the world.
- Ybor City: A historic neighborhood known for its cigar factories, vibrant nightlife, and Cuban heritage.
Major Highways:
Tampa is served by several major highways, including Interstate 275, which runs north-south through the city and across the Howard Frankland Bridge to St. Petersburg. Interstate 4 connects Tampa to Orlando, while Interstate 75 runs along the eastern outskirts of the city, providing a route to Naples and Gainesville. U.S. Route 41 and U.S. Route 92 provide additional local access, while State Road 60 connects downtown Tampa to Clearwater Beach. These highways make Tampa an essential transportation hub on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
4. Orlando (Florida)
City Facts
- County: Orange County
- Area: 119.08 square miles
- Population: 321,427 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 407, 689
- Zip Codes: 32801-32899
- Latitude: 28.538336
- Longitude: -81.379234
Location and History:
Orlando is located in Central Florida, approximately halfway between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. The city was incorporated in 1875 and began as a citrus-growing region. Orlando’s transformation came with the opening of Walt Disney World in 1971, which made it a global tourist destination. The success of Disney World and other theme parks, such as Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld, fueled rapid population growth and economic development. Today, Orlando is one of the most visited cities in the world and is a major center for entertainment, tourism, and technology.
Major Landmarks:
- Walt Disney World Resort: One of the largest and most famous theme parks in the world, consisting of four parks, including Magic Kingdom and EPCOT.
- Universal Orlando Resort: A theme park and entertainment complex featuring rides based on popular films and TV shows.
- Lake Eola Park: A central park in downtown Orlando with swan boat rides and a walking trail around the lake.
- Orlando Science Center: A museum featuring interactive exhibits on science, technology, and nature.
Major Highways:
Orlando is connected by Interstate 4, which runs east-west through the city, linking it to Tampa and Daytona Beach. Florida’s Turnpike runs through the western part of Orlando, providing a direct route to Miami and northern Florida. State Road 408 (East-West Expressway) provides access to downtown Orlando, while State Road 528 (Beachline Expressway) connects the city to Orlando International Airport and the Atlantic coast. U.S. Route 441 and U.S. Route 17-92 offer additional local access, making Orlando a transportation hub for Central Florida.
5. St. Petersburg (Florida)
City Facts
- County: Pinellas County
- Area: 137.6 square miles
- Population: 266,327 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 727
- Zip Codes: 33701-33784
- Latitude: 27.767601
- Longitude: -82.640290
Location and History:
St. Petersburg is located on the Pinellas Peninsula between Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Founded in 1888, it was named after the Russian city by co-founder Peter Demens. St. Petersburg grew as a popular winter tourist destination in the early 20th century, with its sunny weather earning it the nickname “The Sunshine City.” Its proximity to Tampa and access to the Gulf Coast made it a significant port and commercial hub. Today, St. Petersburg is known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, drawing both tourists and residents to its scenic waterfront.
Major Landmarks:
- The Dali Museum: Featuring the largest collection of works by surrealist artist Salvador Dalí outside of Europe.
- St. Pete Beach: A popular beach destination known for its white sands and water activities.
- Sunken Gardens: A historic botanical garden featuring exotic plants and beautiful landscapes.
- Vinoy Park: A waterfront park that hosts festivals, concerts, and offers stunning views of Tampa Bay.
Major Highways:
St. Petersburg is served by Interstate 275, which runs north-south through the city, connecting it to Tampa via the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and Howard Frankland Bridge. U.S. Route 19 runs parallel to I-275, providing access to local areas within Pinellas County. State Road 694 (Gandy Boulevard) offers a route to Tampa, while State Road 687 connects downtown St. Petersburg to the rest of the city. These highways are crucial for linking St. Petersburg to the Tampa Bay area and Gulf Coast.
6. Hialeah (Florida)
City Facts
- County: Miami-Dade County
- Area: 22.82 square miles
- Population: 234,931 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 305, 786
- Zip Codes: 33002-33018
- Latitude: 25.857596
- Longitude: -80.278105
Location and History:
Hialeah is located in the northern part of Miami-Dade County, just northwest of Miami. The city was incorporated in 1925 and has a rich history influenced by aviation, as the famous Hialeah Park Race Track opened in 1925 and became a center for horse racing and social events. Hialeah developed as a working-class suburb of Miami and is today known for its large Cuban population, with Spanish being the predominant language. The city’s cultural diversity and proximity to Miami make it an important part of the Miami metropolitan area, with a strong economy based on manufacturing, retail, and healthcare.
Major Landmarks:
- Hialeah Park: A historic racetrack known for its flamingo sanctuary and once a key site for thoroughbred horse racing.
- Amelia Earhart Park: A large park offering outdoor activities, including fishing, mountain biking, and soccer.
- Milander Park: A community park with sports fields, playgrounds, and the Milander Center for Arts and Entertainment.
- Westland Mall: A popular shopping destination with a variety of stores and dining options.
Major Highways:
Hialeah is served by State Road 826 (Palmetto Expressway), a major north-south route that runs through the western part of the city. U.S. Route 27 runs east-west, connecting Hialeah to Miami and the Everglades. State Road 924 (Gratigny Parkway) provides access to Interstate 75 and Interstate 95, which link Hialeah to other parts of Miami-Dade County and beyond. These highways are essential for the city’s connectivity within the Miami metropolitan area.
7. Port St. Lucie (Florida)
City Facts
- County: St. Lucie County
- Area: 120.82 square miles
- Population: 221,171 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 772
- Zip Codes: 34952-34988
- Latitude: 27.273049
- Longitude: -80.358226
Location and History:
Port St. Lucie is located on Florida’s Treasure Coast, halfway between Miami and Orlando. It was incorporated as a city in 1961 and was initially developed by the General Development Corporation as a residential community. The city grew rapidly in the late 20th and early 21st centuries due to its affordable housing and desirable location. Today, Port St. Lucie is known for its family-friendly neighborhoods, golf courses, and proximity to beaches. The city has become a popular place for retirees and young families alike, with a growing economy centered around healthcare, retail, and tourism.
Major Landmarks:
- Savannas Preserve State Park: A natural area featuring wetlands, trails, and opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing.
- PGA Village: A premier golfing destination with multiple courses, a learning center, and a museum dedicated to the history of golf.
- Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens: A public garden featuring native plants, butterfly gardens, and educational programs.
- First Data Field: The spring training home of the New York Mets and the home field for their minor league affiliate, the St. Lucie Mets.
Major Highways:
Port St. Lucie is served by Interstate 95, which runs north-south along Florida’s east coast, connecting the city to Miami, West Palm Beach, and Daytona Beach. Florida’s Turnpike also runs through the city, providing a toll road route to Orlando and the southern parts of the state. U.S. Route 1 runs parallel to I-95, offering local access to coastal communities. State Road 70 provides an east-west route connecting Port St. Lucie to the interior of Florida. These highways support the city’s growth and accessibility to major Florida destinations.
8. Cape Coral (Florida)
City Facts
- County: Lee County
- Area: 120 square miles
- Population: 204,549 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 239
- Zip Codes: 33904-33993
- Latitude: 26.562854
- Longitude: -81.949533
Location and History:
Cape Coral is located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, just west of Fort Myers. It was founded in 1957 as a planned community by the Gulf American Corporation. The developers designed Cape Coral with a grid of more than 400 miles of canals, earning it the nickname “Waterfront Wonderland.” The city grew rapidly in the following decades, becoming a popular destination for retirees and families attracted to its waterfront properties and outdoor lifestyle. Today, Cape Coral is one of the largest cities in Florida by area and is known for its boating, fishing, and recreational opportunities.
Major Landmarks:
- Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve: A nature preserve offering walking trails, kayaking, and birdwatching.
- Sun Splash Family Waterpark: A large waterpark with slides, pools, and family-friendly attractions.
- Cape Coral Yacht Club: A community center with a public beach, marina, and fishing pier.
- Rotary Park: A park with nature trails, a butterfly house, and a dog park, offering educational programs on local wildlife.
Major Highways:
Cape Coral is connected to the rest of the region by State Road 78 (Pine Island Road), which runs east-west through the city, providing access to Interstate 75 and U.S. Route 41. State Road 884 (Veterans Parkway) also connects Cape Coral to Fort Myers via the Midpoint Memorial Bridge. Del Prado Boulevard and Santa Barbara Boulevard are major north-south routes within the city, facilitating local travel. These highways support Cape Coral’s sprawling layout and access to nearby coastal areas.
9. Tallahassee (Florida)
City Facts
- County: Leon County
- Area: 103.1 square miles
- Population: 199,723 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 850
- Zip Codes: 32301-32399
- Latitude: 30.438256
- Longitude: -84.280733
Location and History:
Tallahassee, the capital of Florida, is located in the Florida Panhandle, midway between Jacksonville and Pensacola. It was established as the territorial capital in 1824 due to its central location between the state’s two largest cities at the time, St. Augustine and Pensacola. As the capital, Tallahassee has long been the political and administrative center of Florida. It is also home to Florida State University and Florida A&M University, making it a major college town. The city’s economy is driven by government, education, and healthcare, and it has a rich history tied to the state’s early settlement and politics.
Major Landmarks:
- Florida State Capitol: The seat of Florida’s government, with the old and new capitol buildings open to visitors.
- Mission San Luis: A historic site and living history museum showcasing the interactions between Spanish settlers and Native Americans in the 17th century.
- Tallahassee Museum: A natural history museum featuring wildlife exhibits, historic buildings, and nature trails.
- Cascades Park: A large urban park with walking trails, fountains, and an amphitheater for outdoor performances.
Major Highways:
Tallahassee is located along Interstate 10, which runs east-west, connecting the city to Jacksonville, Pensacola, and beyond. U.S. Route 27 and U.S. Route 319 are major north-south routes that provide access to southern Georgia and the Gulf Coast. U.S. Route 90 runs parallel to I-10, offering additional access through the northern part of the city. Florida State Road 263 (Capital Circle) serves as a loop around Tallahassee, providing local access to neighborhoods and key government facilities. These highways make Tallahassee a vital transportation hub in the Panhandle region.
10. Fort Lauderdale (Florida)
City Facts
- County: Broward County
- Area: 38.6 square miles
- Population: 183,109 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 954, 754
- Zip Codes: 33301-33394
- Latitude: 26.122439
- Longitude: -80.137317
Location and History:
Fort Lauderdale is located on Florida’s southeastern coast, along the Atlantic Ocean. It was founded in 1838 as a military fort during the Second Seminole War and later developed into a small town. The city grew rapidly in the early 20th century due to its location along the Florida East Coast Railway, which brought tourism and development. Today, Fort Lauderdale is known for its boating canals, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. The city has a strong tourism-driven economy, attracting millions of visitors annually for its waterfront lifestyle and cultural events.
Major Landmarks:
- Fort Lauderdale Beach: A popular destination known for its wide, sandy beaches and beachfront promenade.
- Las Olas Boulevard: A shopping and dining district with art galleries, boutiques, and waterfront views.
- Bonnet House Museum and Gardens: A historic estate and museum set on a lush tropical garden near the beach.
- Museum of Discovery and Science: A hands-on science museum featuring interactive exhibits and an IMAX theater.
Major Highways:
Fort Lauderdale is served by Interstate 95, which runs north-south along the eastern U.S. coast, providing access to Miami and Palm Beach. Interstate 595 runs east-west, connecting the city to the western suburbs and Interstate 75. Florida’s Turnpike is a major toll road that runs through the western part of the city, offering access to Orlando and northern Florida. U.S. Route 1 (Federal Highway) runs parallel to I-95, providing local access to downtown and the beach areas. These highways are essential for the city’s role as a major tourist destination and regional transportation hub.