Capital: Tallahassee
Population: 21,299,325 (Source: 2012 U.S. Census)
Florida is one of the most popular and fastest-growing states in the United States. Its warm climate, beaches, and tourist attractions attract residents and visitors from around the world. Major cities like Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville are centers of commerce, culture, and entertainment.
Major Cities: Jacksonville, Miami, Tampa, St. Petersburg, Orlando, Hialeah, Tallahassee
Miami is internationally recognized for finance, tourism, and arts. Orlando is famous for theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. Tampa and St. Petersburg are popular for their ports, tourism, and cultural attractions. Tallahassee, as the state capital, serves as the political hub of Florida.
Borders: Alabama, Georgia, Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic Ocean
Florida is located in the southeastern United States and is bordered by two states and two bodies of water. Its unique geography makes it a key location for trade, tourism, and climate diversity.
Gross Domestic Product (GDP): $777,164 million (2012 U.S. Department of Commerce)
Florida’s GDP reflects the strength of its diverse economy, which relies heavily on agriculture, tourism, aerospace, banking, biotechnology, and electronics.
Key Industries:
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Agriculture, including oranges, other citrus fruits, sugarcane, corn, green beans, and tomatoes
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Tourism and hospitality
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Banking and financial services
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Aerospace and biotechnology
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Electronics and high-tech manufacturing
Agriculture is an important part of Florida’s economy, particularly citrus production. Tourism is another key driver, with millions visiting every year for beaches, theme parks, and natural attractions. Florida’s growing tech and aerospace sectors also contribute significantly to its economic strength.
How Florida Got Its Name:
Florida was named by Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon, who called the land Pascua Florida, meaning “Flowery Easter.” This name reflected the lush natural landscape and the time of year when he arrived.
Florida State Symbols
State Nickname: Sunshine State
Florida is known for its sunny weather, beaches, and outdoor lifestyle, earning it the nickname “Sunshine State.”
State Slogan: Visit Florida; MyFlorida.com
State Motto: In God We Trust (adopted in 1868)
State Flower: Orange Blossom
The orange blossom represents the state’s thriving citrus industry and its natural beauty.
State Bird: Mockingbird
The mockingbird is admired for its adaptability and melodic song, common across Florida’s landscape.
State Fish: Largemouth Bass (freshwater), Atlantic Sailfish (saltwater)
These fish are popular for both sport fishing and local cuisine, reflecting Florida’s rich aquatic ecosystems.
State Tree: Sabal Palm
The Sabal Palm is a native tree that symbolizes Florida’s tropical and subtropical climate.
State Mammals: Florida Panther, Manatee, Bottle-nosed Dolphin
These mammals are iconic to Florida’s wildlife. The panther is rare and endangered, manatees inhabit coastal waters, and dolphins are commonly seen along the coastlines.
State Foods: Orange Juice, Key Lime Pie, Oranges
Florida’s citrus industry is legendary, producing oranges, orange juice, and other citrus fruits that are enjoyed nationwide. Key Lime Pie is a signature dessert of the state.
Becoming a State
Date Admitted: Monday, March 3, 1845
Number Admitted: 27
Prior Name: Florida Territory
Postal Abbreviation: FL
Florida became the 27th state of the United States in 1845. Before statehood, Florida was a territory with a long history of Spanish and British influence, as well as Native American heritage. Its admission marked an important step in the nation’s expansion into the southeastern United States.
The Geography of Florida
Total Size: 53,927 sq. miles (source: 2003 Census)
Florida is relatively flat compared to other U.S. states, with extensive coastlines, rivers, lakes, and wetlands. Its geography supports agriculture, tourism, and diverse ecosystems.
Geographical Low Point: Atlantic Ocean at Sea Level (source: U.S. Geological Survey)
Geographical High Point: Britton Hill at 345 feet, located in Walton County (source: U.S. Geological Survey)
Britton Hill is the lowest high point of any U.S. state, reflecting Florida’s flat terrain.
Central Point: Hernando County, approximately 12 miles north-northwest of Brooksville (source: U.S. Geological Survey)
Counties: 67 (source: National Association of Counties)
Florida’s 67 counties are home to a mix of urban and rural communities, each contributing to the state’s culture and economy.
Bodies of Water: Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic Ocean, Tampa Bay, Lake Okeechobee, St. Johns River, Suwannee River, Caloosahatchee River, Lake Tohopekaliga, Lake George
Florida’s waterways are vital for trade, recreation, and tourism. Lake Okeechobee is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the U.S., and the Gulf and Atlantic coasts attract millions of visitors each year.
Famous People from Florida
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Faye Dunaway – Actress
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Chris Evert – Professional tennis player
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Debbie Harry – Singer for the band Blondie
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Chipper Jones – Professional baseball player
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Roy Jones, Jr. – Championship boxer
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Jim Morrison – Lead singer of The Doors
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Tom Petty – Singer and songwriter
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Sidney Poitier – Actor and civil rights icon
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Philip Randolph – Civil rights activist
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Bob Ross – Painter and television host
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Emmitt Smith – Professional football player
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Vanilla Ice – Rapper
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Bubba Watson – Professional golfer
Florida has produced a diverse range of influential figures in sports, music, film, art, and activism, showcasing the state’s rich cultural heritage.
Fun Facts About Florida
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Visitors can watch Space Shuttle launches from Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral.
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Ponce de Leon explored Florida in search of the legendary Fountain of Youth.
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St. Augustine, founded in 1565, is the oldest permanent city in the United States.
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Walt Disney World in Orlando is the most visited tourist destination in the world.
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Florida is nicknamed the Alligator State, and the University of Florida’s mascot is the Gator. Gatorade was also invented here.
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Clearwater, Florida, experiences the highest rate of lightning strikes in the U.S.
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Key West holds the highest average temperature in the United States.
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Two rivers in Florida share the same name: Withlacoochee River.
Professional Sports Teams
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Florida Panthers – NHL (hockey)
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Jacksonville Jaguars – NFL (football)
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Miami Dolphins – NFL (football)
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Miami Heat – NBA (basketball)
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Miami Marlins – MLB (baseball)
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Orlando Magic – NBA (basketball)
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers – NFL (football)
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Tampa Bay Rays – MLB (baseball)
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Tampa Bay Lightning – NHL (hockey)
Florida is home to many professional sports teams, offering fans across the state opportunities to enjoy football, baseball, basketball, hockey, and soccer.
Florida is a state of sunshine, beaches, history, and innovation. From its iconic theme parks and space centers to its diverse ecosystems and thriving cities, Florida offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and economic growth. Its population continues to grow, drawn by opportunities, climate, and lifestyle, while its famous landmarks, natural beauty, and influential residents make it a state recognized worldwide. Whether it’s agriculture, tourism, sports, or technology, Florida remains one of the most dynamic and beloved states in the United States.