Florida

The Sunshine State
Official flag of Florida with a red cross on a white background and the state seal in the center
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Quick Stats
22.6M Population
#3 Rank
1845 Joined
65.7k Area (mi²)
Map
Geographical map showing the outline of Florida with its major cities and borders

Seal and Motto
State seal of Florida featuring a Seminole woman, a steamboat, and a Sabal palm tree under a bright sun
"In God We Trust"
Additional Information
Abbreviation FL
Motto Origin

Official US motto.

Adopted 1868.

Official Website MyFlorida.com
Population Growth
Overview

Florida is a unique peninsula located in the southeasternmost part of the United States. Known globally for its tropical climate and over 1,300 miles of coastline, it serves as a major hub for tourism, international trade, and space exploration. Whether you are a student researching for a project or a traveler, Florida offers a rich blend of history and natural beauty.

Historical Significance

Founded as a Spanish colony in 1513 by Juan Ponce de León, Florida has a long and complex history. Florida officially joined the Union on March 3, 1845, as the 27th state. St. Augustine, located on the northeast coast, holds the title of the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the contiguous United States.

Top Cities & Hubs
1

Jacksonville

Population: ~971,000

The largest city by area in the contiguous US. A major deepwater port and financial center.

2

Miami

Population: ~450,000

A major center and leader in finance, commerce, culture, media, entertainment, the arts, and international trade.

3

Tampa

Population: ~398,000

Located on the Gulf Coast, known for its museums and other cultural offerings. An economic center of Western Florida.

4

Orlando

Population: ~316,000

The "Theme Park Capital of the World," home to Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.

5

St. Petersburg

Population: ~261,000

Part of the Tampa Bay area, known for its pleasant weather ("Sunshine City") and the Salvador Dalí Museum.

Neighbors
Georgia Alabama

Region: South

Key Landmarks & Economy
Kennedy Space Center: Located on Merritt Island, this is the primary launch site for NASA's human spaceflight.
The Everglades: A unique subtropical wilderness providing a habitat for numerous endangered species like the Florida panther.
Tourism: Florida is home to world-famous theme parks in Orlando, including Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, which contribute significantly to the state's economy.
Did You Know?
  • Florida is the only place on Earth where alligators and crocodiles coexist in the wild.
  • The state produces about 70% of the United States' citrus fruit supply.
  • No matter where you are in Florida, you are never more than 60 miles from the ocean.
Demographics