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Trying the top Florida cities on US State Largest Cities – Choose State & Number? Here are the top 10 to get you started.
1. Jacksonville, FL (Population: 985,843)
Jacksonville is the largest city by area in the contiguous United States and Florida’s most populous city. Located in the northeast corner of the state, Jacksonville sits along the St. Johns River and the Atlantic Ocean. The city boasts miles of beaches, a bustling port, and a thriving economy driven by banking, healthcare, logistics, and military installations. Jacksonville is also home to an NFL team, the Jacksonville Jaguars, and a growing arts and culture scene. With its combination of urban amenities, outdoor recreation, and waterfront lifestyle, Jacksonville offers a unique Florida experience.
Interesting Fact:
Jacksonville has more shoreline than any other city in the U.S., with over 850 square miles of land and water.
2. Miami, FL (Population: 455,924)
Miami is Florida’s international hub, famous for its beaches, nightlife, and multicultural atmosphere. Located in South Florida, Miami is a gateway for trade and travel to Latin America and the Caribbean. Its skyline is filled with modern high-rises, while its neighborhoods reflect diverse cultures, from Little Havana’s Cuban influence to Wynwood’s art murals. Miami’s economy thrives on tourism, finance, real estate, and international commerce. The city is also known for its vibrant festivals, music, and sports teams, including the Miami Heat and Miami Dolphins.
Interesting Fact:
Miami is the only major U.S. city founded by a woman—Julia Tuttle, in the late 19th century.
3. Tampa, FL (Population: 403,364)
Tampa, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is known for its port, historic neighborhoods, and thriving business sector. The city features Ybor City, a historic district founded by Cuban cigar manufacturers, as well as a modern downtown filled with entertainment and cultural venues. Tampa Bay’s professional sports teams, including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Tampa Bay Lightning, give the city a strong athletic identity. With a warm climate, diverse food scene, and proximity to beaches, Tampa is both a major business center and a popular destination for visitors.
Interesting Fact:
Tampa’s Ybor City was once known as the “Cigar Capital of the World.”
4. Orlando, FL (Population: 320,742)
Orlando is best known as the theme park capital of the world, home to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld. Tourism drives its economy, attracting millions of visitors each year. Beyond its attractions, Orlando is a hub for technology, healthcare, and education. The city has a lively downtown with performing arts venues, dining, and nightlife. Orlando’s central location makes it a key transportation and convention center for Florida.
Interesting Fact:
Orlando International Airport is one of the busiest in the U.S., serving as a gateway for millions of tourists annually.
5. St. Petersburg, FL (Population: 263,553)
St. Petersburg, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is nicknamed “The Sunshine City” for its record number of sunny days. The city is known for its waterfront parks, thriving arts scene, and attractions like the Salvador Dalí Museum. St. Petersburg’s downtown is vibrant with restaurants, breweries, and cultural festivals. Its beaches and warm climate make it popular for both residents and tourists. St. Petersburg combines the feel of a coastal retreat with the amenities of a mid-sized city.
Interesting Fact:
St. Petersburg once held the Guinness World Record for the most consecutive days of sunshine—768 days.
6. Port St. Lucie, FL (Population: 245,021)
Port St. Lucie, located on Florida’s Treasure Coast, has grown rapidly in recent decades, becoming one of the state’s largest cities. Known for its suburban feel and family-friendly neighborhoods, Port St. Lucie also offers outdoor recreation along the St. Lucie River and Atlantic coast. The city is home to the New York Mets’ spring training facility and several golf courses. Its affordable cost of living compared to other Florida metros makes it attractive to new residents.
Interesting Fact:
Port St. Lucie was incorporated in 1961 and has since grown into one of Florida’s fastest-expanding communities.
7. Cape Coral, FL (Population: 224,455)
Cape Coral, located in Southwest Florida, is unique for its extensive canal system, with more than 400 miles of navigable waterways. The city is known for boating, fishing, and waterfront living. Founded in the 1950s as a planned community, Cape Coral has grown into a major residential city with strong population growth. Its location near Fort Myers makes it a convenient place for both retirees and families seeking coastal living.
Interesting Fact:
Cape Coral has more canals than any other city in the world, even surpassing Venice, Italy.
8. Hialeah, FL (Population: 221,300)
Hialeah, located in Miami-Dade County, is a city rich in Cuban culture and heritage. Known for its bilingual community, Hialeah has one of the highest percentages of Cuban-American residents in the U.S. The city is a hub for small businesses, retail, and healthcare, while also being home to Hialeah Park Racing & Casino, a historic horse racing track. Hialeah combines suburban living with vibrant cultural traditions, music, and food.
Interesting Fact:
Hialeah’s population is over 90% Hispanic or Latino, making it one of the most culturally distinct cities in Florida.
9. Tallahassee, FL (Population: 202,221)
Tallahassee is Florida’s capital city, located in the Panhandle region. It is the center of state government and home to Florida State University and Florida A&M University. The city has a blend of politics, education, and culture, with vibrant student life and historic neighborhoods. Surrounded by rolling hills and oak trees, Tallahassee is unique compared to other parts of Florida’s flatter landscape.
Interesting Fact:
Tallahassee was chosen as Florida’s capital in 1824 due to its location halfway between Pensacola and St. Augustine.
10. Fort Lauderdale, FL (Population: 184,255)
Fort Lauderdale is a popular tourist destination in South Florida, known for its boating canals, beaches, and luxury lifestyle. Often called the “Venice of America,” the city has a strong maritime industry, along with tourism, finance, and real estate. Fort Lauderdale’s Las Olas Boulevard is a hub for shopping, dining, and nightlife. Its location along the Atlantic makes it a prime spot for cruise ship departures and yachting culture.
Interesting Fact:
Fort Lauderdale has more than 300 miles of waterways, making it one of the top boating destinations in the world.
