Largest and Most Notable Cities in Florida

Florida's cities are among the fastest-growing in the US. The state added more residents than any other in the 2020s, driven by migration from the Northeast, Midwest, and internationally.

Jacksonville — 950,000
The largest city in Florida by population and the largest city by land area in the contiguous United States (874 square miles). Jacksonville consolidated with Duval County in 1968. The St. Johns River runs through the heart of the city. Jacksonville has a significant military presence (Naval Station Mayport, Naval Air Station Jacksonville) and a growing financial services sector. The Beaches communities (Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, Atlantic Beach) are some of the most livable coastal suburbs in the state.

Miami — 460,000 (metro: 6.2 million)
The economic, cultural, and financial capital of South Florida and the Caribbean Basin. Miami is a true bilingual city — Spanish and English are co-equal in daily life. Brickell is the leading financial district in Latin America by many measures. The Port of Miami handles more cruise passengers than any port in the world. Wynwood's street art district and the Design District reflect Miami's role as an international arts hub.

Tampa — 400,000 (metro: 3.2 million)
A mid-size city with outsized economic punch — home to major finance (Raymond James), military (MacDill Air Force Base, US CENTCOM), and healthcare industries. Ybor City, Tampa's historic Cuban cigar-manufacturing district, is a nationally recognized historic district. The Tampa Bay region has grown by over 600,000 people since 2010.

Orlando — 320,000 (metro: 2.7 million)
The global capital of theme park tourism, but the local economy extends far beyond hospitality. The simulation, modeling, and training industry (tied to nearby military and space interests) employs tens of thousands. UCF and the medical corridor in Lake Nona are reshaping Orlando into a more diversified economy.

St. Petersburg — 265,000
The most vibrant mid-size city in Florida, with a world-class arts scene (Salvador Dali Museum, Museum of Fine Arts), a walkable downtown, and excellent beaches nearby. The St. Pete waterfront is one of the finest in the state.

Tallahassee — 200,000
The state capital and home to FSU and FAMU (Florida A&M University). Tallahassee has a very different character from coastal Florida — rolling hills, a significant African American cultural heritage, and a college-town feel.