The Highest and Lowest Income Areas in Florida

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Written By Blue & Gold NLR Team

 

 

Florida, with a population exceeding 18 million people, stands out as a diverse and dynamic state renowned for its sunny beaches, theme parks, and citrus fruits. However, understanding the economic landscape is crucial. This blog delves into the income disparities across Florida by examining the median household income data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

Highest Income Areas in Florida

According to the data, the top-ranking area in Florida for median household income is Collier County, boasting an income of $37,046. Situated in the southwest, along the Gulf of Mexico, Collier County includes the popular tourist destination of Naples and supports a robust agricultural sector focused on crops like tomatoes, citrus, and sugarcane.

Following closely is St. Johns County, located in the northeast, with a median household income of $36,027. This area, bordering the Atlantic Ocean, is home to the oldest city in the U.S., St. Augustine, known for its historic landmarks and cultural attractions. St. Johns County also features a strong education system with institutions like Flagler College and the University of St. Augustine.

Securing the third position is Martin County in the southeast, boasting a median household income of $35,772. Renowned for its natural beauty and environmental preservation, Martin County thrives in sectors like tourism, health care, and aviation.

Lowest Income Areas in Florida

Conversely, the lowest income area in Florida is Lafayette County, positioned in the north-central part of the state, bordering Georgia, with a median household income of $18,069. Characterized by its rural and sparsely populated nature, Lafayette County primarily relies on agriculture, especially dairy farming.

The second lowest income area is Gilchrist County, adjacent to Lafayette County, with a median household income of $18,309. Similar to Lafayette County, Gilchrist County is rural and low-density, sustaining its economy through agriculture, forestry, and government services.

Securing the third lowest income position is Putnam County, located between St. Johns County and Alachua County in the northeast, with a median household income of $18,402. This mostly rural county, encompassing urban areas like Palatka, focuses on industries such as manufacturing, retail, and health care.

Conclusion

In summary, Florida’s economic landscape exhibits a broad spectrum of income levels influenced by factors like location, industry, and demographics. Coastal regions, dominated by tourism, retirement, and service sectors, tend to have higher incomes, while inland regions, driven by agriculture, forestry, and government services, experience lower incomes. These disparities underscore Florida’s economic and social diversity, presenting both challenges and opportunities for the state.

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