If you’re thinking about relocating to the Sunshine State, looking at the biggest cities in Florida is one of the easiest ways to narrow down where you might want to live. Whether you’re planning a Florida change of address, researching jobs and schools, or even figuring out the details of breaking a lease in Florida, knowing which cities have the most residents can help you compare lifestyle, cost, and overall vibe across the state.
Florida has a ton of choices, from major metros to smaller coastal communities. In fact, the US Census Bureau notes Florida has hundreds of places, including 411 incorporated municipalities with their own governments, plus many additional designated communities, so there’s no shortage of options across the state, the country, and America.
In this guide to Florida cities by population and the largest cities in Florida, we break down key data and demographics for each city using population figures from the US Census Bureau, so you can make a confident, informed decision about where to land next.
Table of Contents
Florida Demographics
Before diving into the biggest cities in Florida, it helps to understand the state as a whole and why so many people are relocating here. Florida is one of the fastest growing states in the country, and it’s currently the 3rd most populous state in the U.S. (behind California and Texas), which explains why the state has such a wide mix of growing metro areas.
This larger snapshot also makes it easier to compare the important cities in Florida, along with the wealthiest cities in Florida, since population growth, housing costs, and income levels can vary a lot from one region to the next.
Florida demographics at a glance:
- Population: 22.6 million
- Median age: 42.8
- Median household income: $73,311
- Median home price: $405,400
- Area: 53,654.2 square miles
- Density: 421.4 people per square mile
- Florida crime rate: 1,825 crimes per 100,000 people
The Largest Cities in Florida
When it comes to Florida cities by population, 10 standout cities take the cake. The populations of Florida cities range from nearly 1 million to just a few hundred. Here are the top 10 biggest cities in Florida.
Jacksonville
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As one of the biggest cities in Florida, Jacksonville stands out for its large population, massive land area, and laid-back coastal lifestyle. Located in Duval County, this sprawling regional center covers about 747.3 square miles, making it one of the largest cities by area in the U.S. Beyond its size, Jacksonville is known for its beaches, the St. Johns River, pro sports, and outdoor adventures like kayaking, fishing, and exploring the Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve. It’s also one of Florida’s most livable major cities for those hoping to retire in Florida.
- Jacksonville population: 985,837
- Jacksonville area: 747.3 square miles
- Jacksonville median age: 36.9
- Jacksonville median household income: $68,069
- Jacksonville median home price: $295,040
- Jacksonville map
Miami
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Miami is one of the biggest cities in Florida, and it’s easily one of the most iconic destinations in the Sunshine State. Known for its vibrant nightlife and oceanfront energy, it’s packed with popular attractions like South Beach, Wynwood Walls, Little Havana, and the Pérez Art Museum Miami. Many residents love the year-round outdoor lifestyle, with beaches, boating, and dining always on the agenda. If you’re comparing Florida population by city, Miami also anchors much of South Florida’s growth and momentum.
- Miami population: 455,955
- Miami area: 36 square miles
- Miami median age: 39.3
- Miami median household income: $68,635
- Miami median home price: $620,000
- Miami crime rate: 9,632 crimes per 100,000 people (427.8% higher than Florida average)
- Miami map
Tampa
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If you’re exploring the biggest cities in Florida, Tampa is a standout for its mix of waterfront fun and big-city energy. Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, it’s known for the Tampa Riverwalk, historic Ybor City, and catching a game at Raymond James Stadium. Locals also love the food scene, craft breweries, and easy day trips to Clearwater Beach. When comparing cities in Florida by population, Tampa continues to grow thanks to job opportunities, modern services, and a quality of life that feels like a vacation without leaving the real world.
- Tampa population: 403,361
- Tampa area: 113.6 square miles
- Tampa median age: 35.3
- Tampa median household income: $72,851
- Tampa median home price: $418,400
- Tampa crime rate: 2,170 crimes per 100,000 people (18.9% higher than Florida average)
- Tampa map
Orlando
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Orlando is one of the biggest cities in Florida, and it offers far more than just theme parks. Recently, the city has become a major hub for tourism, healthcare, and tech, with top employers like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, AdventHealth, Orlando Health, and Lockheed Martin helping drive growth. The vibe is a fun blend of entertainment, dining, and family-friendly neighborhoods, based around year-round events and easy weekend getaways. In addition to being a job center, Orlando sits close to some of the richest cities in Florida and desirable suburbs.
- Orlando population: 320,753
- Orlando area: 111.2 square miles
- Orlando median age: 35.3
- Orlando median household income: $69,414
- Orlando median home price: $405,000
- Orlando crime rate: 4,864 crimes per 100,000 people (166.5% higher than Florida average)
- Orlando map
St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg is one of the biggest cities in Florida for art and waterfront living. Known for its award-winning beaches nearby, this Gulf Coast gem is packed with things to do, from the Salvador Dalí Museum and the Chihuly Collection to walking along the St. Pete Pier and exploring Central Avenue’s shops, breweries, and murals. It also has a strong college presence, with campuses like the University of South Florida St. Petersburg and Eckerd College nearby.
- St. Petersburg population: 263,546
- St. Petersburg area: 61.8 square miles
- St. Petersburg median age: 43.5
- St. Petersburg median household income: $71,743
- St. Petersburg median home price: $400,000
- St. Petersburg crime rate: 3,292 crimes per 100,000 people (80.4% higher than Florida average)
- St. Petersburg map
Port St. Lucie
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Port St. Lucie is quietly climbing the list of the biggest cities in Florida, and it’s easy to see why. This laid-back Treasure Coast city is known for its master-planned neighborhoods, golf courses, and outdoor fun like hiking and kayaking at Savannas Preserve State Park. Baseball fans also love catching spring training games at Clover Park (home of the Mets). If you want a more relaxed pace without giving up convenience, Port St. Lucie is one of the biggest cities in Florida that still feels suburban and easygoing.
- Port St. Lucie population: 245,036
- Port St. Lucie area: 119.2 square miles
- Port St. Lucie median age: 43.5
- Port St. Lucie median household income: $74,928
- Port St. Lucie median home price: $400,000
- Port St. Lucie crime rate: 878 crimes per 100,000 people (51.9% lower than Florida average)
- Port St. Lucie map
Cape Coral
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Cape Coral is one of the biggest cities in Florida that feels like it was built for life on the water. Famous for its massive canal system, it’s a paradise for boating, fishing, and sunset cruises, with quick access to the Caloosahatchee River and nearby Gulf beaches. Locals also love exploring Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve and dining along the waterfront. With a median household income of $74,634, Cape Coral attracts families and retirees looking for sunshine and a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
- Cape Coral population: 224,452
- Cape Coral area: 106.1 square miles
- Cape Coral median age: 49.2
- Cape Coral median household income: $74,634
- Cape Coral median home price: $370,000
- Cape Coral map
Hialeah
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Hialeah is one of the biggest cities in Florida, and it’s packed with culture and nonstop energy. Located in Miami-Dade County, it’s best known for its strong Cuban and Latin American influence, which shines through in the food scene, local markets, and neighborhood events. For things to do, residents love Amelia Earhart Park, the shops at Westland Mall, and catching live entertainment around the city. If you want a vibrant place with deep roots, Hialeah is one of the biggest cities in Florida to watch.
- Hialeah population: 221,318
- Hialeah area: 21.6 square miles
- Hialeah median age: 46.8
- Hialeah median household income: $55,310
- Hialeah median home price: $460,000
- Hialeah crime rate: 2,064 crimes per 100,000 people (13.1% higher than Florida average)
- Hialeah map
Tallahassee
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As the state capital, Tallahassee offers a totally different vibe from Florida’s beach metros, making it one of the most unique biggest cities in Florida to consider. It’s best known for government careers, oak-lined streets, and a strong college town feel. Schools are a huge part of life here, with Florida State University and Florida A&M University shaping the culture, sports scene, and economy. When you’re not on campus, locals explore Cascades Park, hike at Alfred B. Maclay Gardens, and enjoy weekend farmers markets.
- Tallahassee population: 202,222
- Tallahassee area: 102.4 square miles
- Tallahassee median age: 28.2
- Tallahassee median household income: $56,146
- Tallahassee median home price: $271,200
- Tallahassee map
Fort Lauderdale
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Fort Lauderdale is a sunny, upscale standout in the biggest cities in Florida list, known for its boating lifestyle and “Venice of America” canal network. Spend a day strolling Las Olas Boulevard, relaxing on Fort Lauderdale Beach, or hopping on the Water Taxi to explore the city from the water. It’s also close enough for easy South Florida day trips, whether you’re heading toward Miami or planning a weekend escape. If you’re comparing the biggest cities in Florida by population, Fort Lauderdale offers big-city perks with a coastal, resort-style feel, even though it’s on the Atlantic side (not the Gulf of Mexico).
- Fort Lauderdale population: 184,263
- Fort Lauderdale area: 34.6 square miles
- Fort Lauderdale median age: 43.6
- Fort Lauderdale median household income: $80,539
- Fort Lauderdale median home price: $600,000
- Fort Lauderdale map
Map of the Biggest Cities in Florida
Check out this map of the biggest cities in Florida.
Biggest Cities in Florida FAQs
What Is the Most Populated City in Florida?
The biggest cities in Florida list is based on city population within city limits. Using the latest US Census Bureau data, Jacksonville ranks as the most populated city in Florida, with close to 1 million residents. It leads many other large metros due to its large city boundaries and steady growth.
What Is the Largest City in Florida?
When people ask what the largest city in Florida is, they may mean population or land size. By land area, Jacksonville is the largest city in Florida, covering about 747.3 square miles.
How Many Cities in Florida Are There?
Florida has 411 incorporated municipalities, according to the US Census Bureau. These include cities, towns, and villages with their own local governments. Beyond that, Florida also has many unincorporated and designated communities statewide.
How Many People Are in Florida?
If you’re researching relocation and comparing Florida cities by population, it helps to start with the state’s overall size. For anyone asking how many people are in Florida, the state has about 22.6 million residents. That makes Florida the third most populous state in the U.S., behind California and Texas.
Which of Florida’s Biggest Cities Is Right for You?
Now that you’ve compared the biggest cities in Florida and explored key Florida cities by population, the next step is figuring out which one best fits your lifestyle. Are you looking for beach access, strong job growth, a family-friendly suburb, or a lively downtown packed with entertainment?
No matter where you land, having the right moving team makes the transition easier. If you’re relocating and need reliable Florida movers, get in touch with Meehan’s Family Moving today at (561) 904-6000 for a quote and personalized help planning your Florida move.
