Considering a move to Florida? Living in a place with ample sunshine can truly lift your spirits. The inviting warmth of the sun’s rays entices residents to spend more time outdoors throughout the year, engaging in a wide range of activities.
An additional advantage is that spending time outside helps foster stronger community bonds. Here are the top 10 healthiest cities in Florida for you to contemplate.
10 Healthiest Cities in Florida
1. Boynton Beach
Population: 80,380
Smoking rate: 7.2%
Physical inactivity rate: 26.7%
Obesity: 17.5%
Whether you desire to partake in water-based activities or prefer to stay on land, Boynton Beach is a destination that won’t disappoint. Located south of Palm Beach and just an hour’s drive north of Miami, this city might trick you into thinking you’re in the Caribbean.
As you soak in the city’s charm, you may question why anyone would choose to live elsewhere. Make your way to Boynton Beach Ocean Inlet Park, known as a precious spot along the intercoastal waterway, and test your balance on a paddleboard. Living in a place with seemingly endless summers, you’ll bid farewell to snow and chilly winds.
2. Tallahassee
Population: 196,169
Smoking rate: 13.5%
Physical inactivity rate: 19.5%
Obesity: 26.4%
Tallahassee, the capital of the state, offers over 700 miles of trails for walking, biking, and hiking to outdoor enthusiasts. Those who enjoy challenging mountain biking trails will not be disappointed. And no, Virginia, not all of Florida’s terrain is flat.
If you prefer to admire the landscape on horseback, you should visit the Fort Braden Equestrian Trail. Whether you are a peaceful observer or an adventurous thrill-seeker, you will find tranquility in observing wildlife in its natural habitat. Just a heads up: these fascinating creatures, whether they have wings, fins, or four legs, will captivate you.
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3. Fort Lauderdale
Population: 182,760
Smoking rate: 13.1%
Physical inactivity rate: 24.8
Obesity: 22.2%
According to researchers, individuals residing near coastal waters or expansive natural water bodies experience reduced levels of anxiety and stress. If you decide to make Fort Lauderdale your home, you’ll have the chance to put this theory to the test.
In doing so, you might uncover a multitude of health and wellness benefits that don’t necessitate vigorous physical exertion. Embarking on a relaxing riverboat sightseeing cruise or zipping through the Everglades on an airboat could potentially serve as the ideal solution to help you relax and unwind.
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4. Miramar
Population: 134,721
Smoking rate: 12.0%
Physical inactivity rate: 19.0%
Obesity: 21.1
Miramar is a less congested part of the Miami Metropolitan area, making it a sought-after destination. If you’re in the mood for an outdoor show, you’ll discover a variety of multicultural entertainment events at the 4,000-seat Miramar Amphitheater.
Visitors can seek shelter from rain or intense heat while enjoying themselves under a large canopy. Another notable feature is the versatile Ansin Sports Complex, which accommodates various sports such as cricket, soccer, and pole vaulting.
For a dose of nature, you can explore the Miramar Pineland Natural Area, where children can have fun at the playgrounds and splash pads.
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5. Boca Raton
Population: 97,422
Smoking rate: 14.7%
Physical inactivity rate: 21.2
Obesity: 20.6%
Boca Raton is a stunning tropical paradise that is best appreciated through personal experience. Beyond the constant mist of the sea, seagulls searching for food, and gently swaying palm trees provided by Mother Nature, the residents of Boca Raton have contributed an element of sophistication and elegance.
Those with a passion for shopping will be captivated while taking a leisurely stroll through Mizner Park and exploring the impressive collections at the Boca Raton Museum of Art. For a truly immersive experience, visit Red Reef Park on the oceanfront and indulge in the serene marine surroundings.
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6. Palm Beach Gardens
Population: 59,182
Smoking rate: 11.5%
Physical inactivity rate: 18.6%
Obesity: 22.5%
If we could go back in time, we would discover that this area was once primarily occupied by cattle ranches and pine forests. However, when developers arrived, they transformed the land into a breathtaking marvel that is now Palm Beach Gardens.
In no time, houses emerged, along with charming boutiques and delightful dining establishments. Golf enthusiasts may already be aware that the Professional Golfers’ Association of America (PGA) has its headquarters located here.
Every year, the Honda Classic attracts both golf legends and fans who aspire to catch a glimpse of their favorite players. Many residents of this picturesque town take pleasure in the vibrant culinary scene and the Downtown Palm Beach Gardens, a tropical and stylish retail hub.
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7. Coral Springs
Population: 134,394
Smoking rate: 13.4%
Physical inactivity rate: 23.6%
Obesity: 22.4%
Coral Springs offers numerous attractions and recreational activities that cater to the whole family. Additionally, there are delightful dining options available to satisfy your cravings. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway from the city’s busyness, simply take the Sawgrass Expressway westward, and you’ll reach the outskirts of the Florida Everglades.
This biodiverse sanctuary allows you to witness a variety of wildlife, including aquatic and migratory birds, as they explore the lush vegetation and soar above the cypress and palm trees.
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8. Melbourne
Population: 84,678
Smoking rate: 14.2%
Physical inactivity rate: 23.5%
Obesity: 25.6%
Melbourne’s prime location on the shores of the Indian River Lagoon offers a perfect vantage point for observing pelicans and cranes. In the historic downtown area of Melbourne, there is a Crane Creek Promenade where you can enjoy watching wildlife and manatees.
For those interested in excellent fishing, the Melbourne Beach Fishing Pier is an ideal spot to cast your line. Even if you don’t catch anything, which is quite uncommon, you can still witness a breathtaking sunset at the end of the day. No admission ticket is needed for this experience.
9. Winter Park
Population: 29,795
Smoking rate: 9.7%
Physical inactivity rate: 17.5%
Obesity: 20.9%
Located to the north of Orlando, Winter Park was once promoted as a sanctuary for escaping the winter season. It has become a top-notch destination for nature enthusiasts and offers a delightful array of festivals throughout the year. The region boasts numerous lakes of various sizes, attracting visitors who enjoy engaging in a variety of water-based activities. Following a guided boat tour, indulge in a delightful dinner at a seafood restaurant situated by the lakeside.
10. Cape Coral
Population: 194,016
Smoking rate: 16.7%
Physical inactivity rate: 17.6%
Obesity: 26.8%
Cape Coral, despite not being directly located on the Gulf of Mexico, boasts an abundance of water bodies. In fact, no other city in the world can match its impressive network of navigable waterways, totaling 400 miles of winding canals.
For those seeking to explore serene mangroves and tidal shores, Cape Coral serves as an ideal starting point for kayaking adventures. Additionally, golf enthusiasts will find plenty of courses to indulge in.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Tom Allen Memorial Butterfly Garden, a captivating spot where you can observe graceful butterflies soaring and twirling amidst radiant sunbeams.
