Largest cities in Florida

Florida, the Sunshine State, is famous for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and warm climate. With a population of approximately 21.5 million, it ranks as the 3rd most populated state in the U.S. Florida's population has been growing rapidly, driven by its attractive weather, economic opportunities, and high quality of life. Bordered by Alabama and Georgia to the north, the Gulf of Mexico to the west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Florida offers diverse living experiences across its roughly 400 cities and towns.

Living in Florida provides numerous benefits, including a warm climate year-round, no state income tax, and a wide range of recreational activities. The state's high population density in urban areas contributes to a lively and dynamic atmosphere, while its extensive coastline and numerous parks offer plenty of space for relaxation and outdoor activities. Florida's booming economy, driven by tourism, agriculture, and technology, continues to attract new residents. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in Florida, based on data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, offers a comprehensive overview of Florida cities by population, showcasing the state's most populous and influential urban centers.

Jacksonville Population: 902,488 Livability Score: 84

Area Size: 1,936 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,208 Med. Household Income: $55,531

Jacksonville, FL, known as 'The River City,' offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. Located in northeastern Florida, Jacksonville is a large city that serves as a major economic and cultural hub. Major nearby cities like St. Augustine and Fernandina Beach enhance its status as a central point in the region. Jacksonville's blend of scenic waterways, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Miami Population: 461,080 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 93 KM² Density (sq mi): 12,809 Med. Household Income: $44,268

Miami, FL, known as 'The Magic City,' offers a unique blend of tropical beauty and vibrant urban life. Located in southeastern Florida, Miami is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Fort Lauderdale and Coral Gables enhance its status as a central point in the region. Miami's blend of scenic beaches, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Tampa Population: 395,912 Livability Score: 80

Area Size: 294 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,472 Med. Household Income: $55,634

Tampa, Florida, known as "The Cigar City," is a vibrant metropolis located on the Gulf Coast. With its rich history, diverse cultural scene, and thriving economy, Tampa offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's blend of historic charm and modern amenities makes living in Tampa an attractive option for families, professionals, and retirees alike.

Orlando Population: 284,817 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 273 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,569 Med. Household Income: $55,183

Orlando, FL, known as 'The City Beautiful,' offers a unique blend of vibrant culture and modern urban amenities. Located in central Florida, Orlando is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Tampa and Miami enhance its status as a central point in the region. Orlando's blend of world-famous attractions, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

St. Petersburg Population: 264,001 Livability Score: 86

Area Size: 160 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,267 Med. Household Income: $60,798

St. Petersburg, FL, known as 'The Sunshine City,' offers a unique blend of vibrant culture and modern urban amenities. Located on the west coast of Florida, St. Petersburg is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Tampa and Clearwater enhance its status as a central point in the region. St. Petersburg's blend of beautiful beaches, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Hialeah Population: 233,876 Livability Score: 73

Area Size: 56 KM² Density (sq mi): 10,837 Med. Household Income: $38,471

Hialeah, FL, known as 'The City of Progress,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in the Miami metropolitan area, Hialeah is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Miami and Fort Lauderdale enhance its status as a central point in the region. Hialeah's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Port St. Lucie Population: 195,773 Livability Score: 68

Area Size: 308 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,642 Med. Household Income: $62,380

Port St. Lucie, FL, known as "The Jewel of the Treasure Coast," is renowned for its beautiful coastal scenery and tranquil living. Located on the southeastern coast of Florida, Port St. Lucie is approximately 50 miles north of West Palm Beach and 115 miles southeast of Orlando. This medium-sized city offers a blend of suburban charm and coastal living, making it an attractive place to reside.

Tallahassee Population: 192,885 Livability Score: 85

Area Size: 260 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,894 Med. Household Income: $46,461

Tallahassee, FL, known as "Florida's Capital City," is renowned for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Located in the Florida Panhandle, Tallahassee is approximately 200 miles west of Jacksonville and 250 miles east of Pensacola. This medium-sized city is the state capital and offers a unique blend of governmental significance, educational excellence, and Southern charm.

Cape Coral Population: 189,633 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 274 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,789 Med. Household Income: $61,780

Cape Coral, FL, known as "Waterfront Wonderland," is renowned for its extensive network of canals and waterfront living. Located in southwest Florida, Cape Coral is approximately 10 miles west of Fort Myers and 120 miles south of Tampa. This medium-sized city offers a unique blend of suburban charm and coastal amenities, making it an attractive place to reside.

Fort Lauderdale Population: 181,818 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 90 KM² Density (sq mi): 5,257 Med. Household Income: $64,313

Fort Lauderdale, FL, known as "The Venice of America," is famous for its extensive canal system and vibrant lifestyle. Located in southeastern Florida, Fort Lauderdale is approximately 25 miles north of Miami and 40 miles south of West Palm Beach. This medium-sized city offers a unique blend of urban amenities and waterfront living, making it a highly desirable place to reside.

Full list of the largest cities in Florida

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Jacksonville	902,488	1,936	$55,531	84
2	Miami	461,080	93	$44,268	81
3	Tampa	395,912	294	$55,634	80
4	Orlando	284,817	273	$55,183	81
5	St. Petersburg	264,001	160	$60,798	86
6	Hialeah	233,876	56	$38,471	73
7	Port St. Lucie	195,773	308	$62,380	68
8	Tallahassee	192,885	260	$46,461	85
9	Cape Coral	189,633	274	$61,780	76
10	Fort Lauderdale	181,818	90	$64,313	81
11	Pembroke Pines	171,979	86	$68,683	82
12	Hollywood	153,834	71	$54,317	75
13	Miramar	140,479	76	$70,477	79
14	Gainesville	133,611	162	$38,028	84
15	Coral Springs	133,370	60	$77,488	78
16	Lehigh Acres	124,523	240	$49,937	58
17	Clearwater	115,975	67	$50,335	81
18	Brandon	115,909	86	$62,953	85
19	Palm Bay	113,751	170	$52,435	71
20	Spring Hill	113,742	155	$52,532	63
21	Pompano Beach	111,202	62	$52,565	73
22	West Palm Beach	111,006	141	$54,603	85
23	Miami Gardens	110,767	47	$46,760	73
24	Lakeland	110,335	171	$50,136	77
25	Davie	105,594	90	$74,523	81
26	Boca Raton	98,776	75	$84,445	79
27	Riverview	95,849	120	$75,385	79
28	Sunrise	94,657	42	$54,701	81
29	Plantation	94,366	56	$75,780	81
30	Deltona	91,847	97	$56,760	72
31	Alafaya	91,468	98	$79,722	82
32	Town 'n' Country	89,791	57	$56,767	76
33	Miami Beach	89,439	20	$57,211	70
34	Palm Coast	88,222	246	$57,872	69
35	Largo	84,666	47	$46,733	81
36	Fort Myers	83,505	103	$48,848	85
37	Melbourne	82,281	114	$51,934	85
38	The Villages	81,444	81	$64,933	70
39	Pine Hills	81,415	32	$43,387	73
40	Deerfield Beach	80,822	39	$47,183	75
41	Boynton Beach	78,060	42	$56,850	73
42	Kendall	77,228	42	$72,323	76
43	Kissimmee	72,410	54	$41,399	78
44	Lauderhill	71,827	22	$43,658	79
45	Weston	70,965	65	$113,032	67
46	Homestead	68,937	39	$50,723	74
47	Delray Beach	68,916	41	$66,245	80
48	North Port	68,779	258	$64,543	76
49	Daytona Beach	68,711	170	$38,686	80
50	Poinciana	68,280	186	$49,628	56

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in Florida, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.