Florida is famous for its warm weather, beautiful coastlines, and mouthwatering seafood, making it a top destination for tourists and road-trippers.
The following compilation of the 7 biggest cities in Florida will serve as your go-to resource for exploring the most sought-after attractions in the state.
7 Largest Cities in Florida by Population
- Jacksonville
- Miami
- Tampa
- Orlando
- St. Petersburg
- Hialeah
- Port St. Lucie
1. Jacksonville
Jacksonville holds the distinction of being the largest city in Florida in terms of both population and area. Situated on the northeastern coast of the state, this city is inhabited by approximately 955,000 individuals and spans approximately 747 square miles.
Similar to other major metropolitan areas, Jacksonville boasts a wide range of urban amenities and cultural attractions. Some notable favorites among these attractions include the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, and St. Johns Town Center.
Additionally, no visit to Jacksonville would be complete without exploring its stunning array of local beaches. All in all, Jacksonville stands as the prime destination in Florida for those seeking a truly urban lifestyle.
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2. Miami
Miami, located on Florida’s southeastern coast, is the second-largest city in the state. Renowned for its Cuban influence, pleasant weather, and pristine sandy beaches, Miami is a bustling cosmopolitan metropolis.
It serves as a prominent center for finance, commerce, culture, and tourism. The city’s subtropical climate offers hot and humid summers, making it an excellent spot for sunbathing on the numerous beaches in the area.
Among the popular choices are Miami Beach and South Beach, which attract both tourists and locals alike. With a population of approximately 440,000, Miami is an ideal destination in Florida for those seeking a vibrant social atmosphere.
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3. Tampa
Tampa, located on the western coast of Florida, is one of the state’s largest cities. With a population of approximately 387,000 people, it holds the title of the largest city in the Tampa Bay area.
The city offers its residents warm weather, a vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful beaches, which contribute to its allure.
One of Tampa’s notable features is its lively downtown area, which houses numerous independent shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions such as the Tampa Museum of Art and the Florida Aquarium.
The Tampa Riverwalk is also a popular destination, providing a picturesque pathway along the Hillsborough River. With all of these offerings and more, Tampa has become a thriving residential city in Florida.
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4. Orlando
Orlando, with a population of around 309,000 residents, is a popular choice for living in Florida. It is renowned for its wide array of theme parks, making it a thriving destination for tourists.
Visitors from all corners of the globe come to experience the magic of Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios Florida, and Seaworld Orlando, which collectively draw in millions of tourists each year.
Besides these iconic parks, Orlando is home to various cultural attractions, including the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and the Orlando Science Center.
The city also boasts numerous beautiful lakes and parks. With its vibrant arts community, diverse economy, and enjoyable local ambiance, Orlando offers an excellent option for those seeking a vibrant city lifestyle.
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5. St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg, situated on Florida’s western coast, is a significant city. It is located about 23.8 miles away from Tampa and is highly sought after due to its desirable location along the Gulf of Mexico.
Approximately 258,000 residents call St. Petersburg home, attracted to its combination of tropical weather, vibrant art and cultural scenes, diverse shopping areas, and abundant outdoor activities.
A popular attraction for tourists is the Salvador Dali Museum, which boasts the largest collection of Dali’s artwork outside of Spain. Other notable places of interest include St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island Beach, the Sunken Gardens, and the Weedon Island Preserve.
With its numerous attractions, it comes as no surprise that St. Petersburg ranks as the fifth-largest city in Florida.
6. Hialeah
Hialeah, a popular city located approximately 11.7 miles east of Miami, is renowned for its rich history and diverse local community. It serves as a cultural center, particularly known for its vibrant Cuban-American influence, which is best experienced through its delectable local cuisine.
One of the city’s notable attractions is the Hialeah Park Race Track, which was established in 1925. Today, it offers thrilling live horse racing events and features a casino.
Another significant landmark is the Leah Arts District, which has transformed into a vibrant neighborhood with art galleries, studios, and performance centers.
It also hosts various festivals and events. With a population of over 220,000 people, Hialeah is an ideal destination for urban-minded residents of Florida.
7. Port St. Lucie
Port Saint Lucie is a significant city located on the east coast of Florida. It sits approximately halfway between Orlando and Miami and has a population of around 218,000 people, making it slightly smaller than Hialeah.
Port St. Lucie is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including beautiful white-sand beaches, clear waters, and picturesque hiking trails.
The city boasts several notable natural attractions such as Jensen Beach, the St. Lucie River, and the Savannas Preserve State Park, all of which offer ample opportunities to enjoy the area’s breathtaking views.
With its abundant natural resources, Port St. Lucie is an ideal choice for those seeking a thriving community with a tranquil ambiance.
