Florida, a diverse and fascinating state, is divided into various regions based on geography and climate. One such region is Central Florida, which includes Hillsborough County. With its vibrant culture, booming economy, and strategic location, one might ask, “is Hillsborough County considered Central Florida?” The answer is yes. Join us as we explore this intriguing region and uncover the reasons why Hillsborough County is considered part of Central Florida.
Hillsborough County is a county located on the midsection of Florida’s west coast, part of Central Florida and home to Tampa Bay Area cities.
It has diverse demographics, economic importance and infrastructure networks including roads & highways for public transit.
Hillsborough County Fire Rescue & Emergency Services prioritize safety with emergency services & training programs coordinated by the Office of Emergency Management (OEM).
Florida is a vast and diverse state, encompassing numerous regions, each with unique characteristics. From the sun-soaked sands of South Florida to the serene landscapes of North Florida, there is a wealth of variety to be found within the Sunshine State.
Central Florida, a region often associated with theme parks and tourism, has a rich history and vibrant culture that extends far beyond its popular attractions. Central Florida is comprised of several counties, including Osceola Counties and other neighboring areas such as Volusia County:
Polk
Marion
Flagler
Lake
Orange
Seminole
Brevard
Each county has its distinct features and landscapes, often overseen by county commissioners.
With its flatland terrain and over 1,500 lakes and ponds, Central Florida is a stunning blend of wetlands, forests, pastures, prairies, and coastline, offering a taste of Florida’s natural beauty.
Located in the heart of the state, Central Florida encompasses several counties including:
Brevard
Citrus
Hernando
Hillsborough
Lake
Orange
Osceola
Pasco
Pinellas
Polk
Seminole
The region is characterized by its inland positioning, diverse landscapes featuring lakes, and a combination of temperate and subtropical climate zones. Central Florida is also known for its distinctive towns and cities, including the popular tourist destination of Orlando.
Central Florida differs from other parts of the state, such as South Florida, which has a true tropical climate. The region is also home to the University of Central Florida (UCF), one of the largest universities in the United States.
Cities in Central Florida include:
Orlando
Palm Bay
Lakeland
Melbourne
Deltona
Daytona Beach
Kissimmee
Altamonte Springs
Sanford
Each city has its unique features and attractions.
Positioned in the midsection of Florida’s west coast, Hillsborough County is a key component of Central Florida. With a total area of 1,266 square miles, its diverse landscape features a lengthy shoreline along Tampa Bay and a multitude of natural habitats. The county’s unique position offers residents and visitors alike access to both the bustling urban centers and tranquil natural settings that Florida is known for.
Some of the key geographical features of Hillsborough County include Egmont Key, which separates Pinellas County from Manatee County. The county is home to several incorporated cities, such as Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City, each contributing its distinct character and charm to the area.
Situated in Southern Florida, the Tampa Bay Area stands as an independent region. It primarily consists of Hillsborough County (Tampa) and Pinellas County (St. Pete, Clearwater), is often considered part of Central Florida. This region shares a connection with Central Florida through its geographical position on the west-central coast of the state, lying between 27.5° and 28°N latitude and bordered by the Gulf of Mexico.
As part of the Tampa–St. Petersburg–Clearwater Metropolitan Statistical Area, which includes both Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties, Hillsborough County acts as a connection point between the Tampa Bay Area and Central Florida. Furthermore, Hillsborough County’s central location in Florida and its historical ties to neighboring counties strengthen its connection to Central Florida.
The Tampa Bay Area’s primary cities are:
Tampa, with a population of 398,173, is the largest city in the region and boasts a rich history and diverse cultural scene.
St. Petersburg, known as the “Sunshine City,” is home to 248,429 residents and is famous for its vibrant arts scene, including the Salvador Dali Museum.
Clearwater, with 109,210 residents, is renowned for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities.
These major cities play a crucial role in the economic development of the Tampa Bay Area. St. Petersburg is experiencing a surge in construction projects and is becoming a focal point for economic growth and entrepreneurship. Tampa is home to Florida’s largest seaport, Port Tampa Bay, which is vital for trade and commerce. The diverse and thriving cities of the Tampa Bay Area contribute significantly to the region’s prosperity and growth.
The Tampa Bay Area is composed of several counties, each with its unique features:
Hillsborough County, with a GDP of $91.4 billion, is an economic powerhouse in the region.
Pinellas County, known for its beautiful beaches and tourist attractions, has a GDP of $48.6 billion.
Manatee County, with its rich agricultural heritage and growing economy, has a GDP growth rate of 9.4%.
Sarasota County, one of the top 10 counties in Florida in terms of economic activity, contributes significantly to the region’s overall prosperity.
The interconnectedness of these counties, through roadways, highways, and railroads, provides a robust network for transportation and mobility. Additionally, Hillsborough County is home to two significant seaport facilities, the Port of Tampa and Port Manatee, further enhancing connections with neighboring counties and the wider area.
Housing a population of 167,000 residents, Hillsborough County plays a vital role in both Central Florida and the Tampa Bay Area. The county’s diverse ethnic composition includes a large population of foreign-born residents, with the most frequent countries of origin being Cuba, Colombia, and India.
The county’s vibrant culture and economic opportunities attract people from all walks of life. With a flourishing economy encompassing various industries such as:
export
agriculture
defense
information technology
manufacturing
financial services
healthcare
retail trade
nonprofit arts and culture sector
Hillsborough County is a thriving and dynamic region.
Hillsborough County is home to a diverse population, with 38.5% of its residents identifying as Hispanic and 27.1% of its inhabitants born outside of the country. The most prevalent countries of birth for foreign-born residents are Cuba, Colombia, and India. According to a survey, 40.6% of households in the county reported using a non-English language as their primary shared language at home. Spanish was the most commonly reported language..
The county’s diverse ethnic composition is also reflected in its largest ethnic groups, which include:
White (Non-Hispanic)
White (Hispanic)
Two+ (Hispanic)
Black or African American (Non-Hispanic)
Asian (Non-Hispanic)
This rich tapestry of cultures and backgrounds contributes to the vibrant atmosphere and sense of community in Hillsborough County.
Hillsborough County has a significant economic and cultural impact on the Central Florida region. Its major industries contribute to the area’s prosperity, and its GDP of $91.4 billion showcases its economic strength. Moreover, the county hosts various cultural events, such as:
The Fall Festival at the New Tampa Performing Arts Center
Multiple festivals in Tampa
The Riverfest
Special events at the Greater Hillsborough County Fair
Celebrations of Hispanic Heritage Month
The cities of Tampa, Plant City, and Temple Terrace each have their unique cultural significance. Here are some highlights:
Tampa is well-known for its diverse population, vibrant arts scene, and rich history.
Plant City is celebrated for its annual Strawberry Festival and agricultural heritage.
Temple Terrace, home to the University of South Florida, focuses on education and community engagement.
Since Florida’s statehood in 1845, the boundaries of Hillsborough County have undergone changes. Initially, the county encompassed a much larger region that included present-day Pinellas, Polk, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, DeSoto, Hardee, and Highlands counties. Today, Hillsborough County shares borders with Pasco County to the north, Polk County to the east, Manatee County to the south, and Pinellas County to the west.
With its diverse landscape and central location on Florida’s west coast, Hillsborough County connects with neighboring regions through a network of roads, highways, and railroads, facilitating transportation and mobility between counties. The county’s geographic features, such as Tampa Bay, the Hillsboro River, and the Gulf of Mexico, further define its boundaries and shape its unique identity.
Several counties adjoin Hillsborough County, including:
Franklin
Orange
DeSoto
Alachua
Each neighboring county has its unique features and landscapes, contributing to the diverse tapestry of Central Florida. The primary geographical features that define the limits of Hillsborough County are its location in the middle of the western coast of Florida and its municipal boundaries.
The interconnectedness of Hillsborough County with its neighboring counties creates a strong network for transportation and mobility. The county’s major roads and highways, such as:
Interstate 275
US Highway 92 (Gandy Boulevard)
State Road 60 (Kennedy Boulevard)
County Road 581
facilitate connections with adjacent counties and the broader region.
Hillsborough County is home to several municipalities, each offering unique features and attractions. The principal cities within the county are:
Tampa, with a population of 387,916, is the largest city in the county and serves as the county seat.
Plant City, known for its agricultural heritage and annual Strawberry Festival, has a population of 39,453.
Temple Terrace, with 26,515 residents, is home to the University of South Florida and is focused on education and community engagement.
These municipalities, along with the county’s diverse population and thriving economy, contribute significantly to the cultural and economic importance of Hillsborough County. Together, they form a vibrant community that showcases the rich history and natural beauty of Florida’s west-central coast.
A comprehensive infrastructure network spans Hillsborough County, covering aspects like transportation, stormwater management, and facilities such as parks and libraries. The county has established divisions devoted to strategic infrastructure planning and community planning, ensuring the implementation and maintenance of infrastructure projects.
To facilitate transportation and mobility, Hillsborough County offers a variety of public transit options, including roads, highways, and public transit systems. The county is home to several principal roads and highways, as well as the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) buses, which provide public transportation services for residents and visitors alike.
The major roads and highways in Hillsborough County consist of:
Interstate 275
US Highway 92 (Gandy Boulevard)
State Road 60 (Kennedy Boulevard)
County Road 581
These roads provide essential connections and transportation options for residents and visitors, linking Hillsborough County with its neighboring counties and the broader region.
To ensure the safety and efficiency of the county’s roadways, the Traffic Management Center (TMC) in Hillsborough County utilizes Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras to observe traffic and direct it away from crash sites. This system optimizes travel times and guarantees safety for all road and sidewalk users.
Hillsborough County provides its residents and visitors with various public transit options, such as:
HART (Hillsborough Area Regional Transit), which operates local and express bus routes
The TECO Streetcar, a heritage streetcar route
HartFlex Van Routes
The MetroRapid BRT line
These options ensure accessibility and transportation options for all.
The cost of bus fare in Hillsborough County varies depending on the type of fare card, with local and limited express fares costing $4.00 and discount local and limited express fares at the same price. Daily, weekly, and monthly passes are available for unlimited rides, providing convenient and affordable transportation options for residents and visitors alike.
Through its fire rescue department and emergency management office, Hillsborough County prioritizes the safety and well-being of its residents. Established in the 1950s as an all-volunteer force, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue has evolved into a department with 1,019 career uniformed and support personnel, providing essential emergency services to the community.
The county’s fire rescue department works in tandem with the Office of Emergency Management (OEM), which is responsible for:
Planning and coordinating actions to prepare, respond, and recover from emergencies
Managing the County Emergency Operations Center
Conducting emergency training
Providing public education
Coordinating community emergency support functions.
In Hillsborough County, the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) forms a critical part of the county’s strategy for preparedness and resilience against emergencies and disasters. Led by Emergency Manager Timothy Dudley, Jr., the OEM is responsible for overseeing the planning and operations of the County Emergency Operations Center and collaborating with state and federal emergency agencies to ensure a coordinated and effective response to emergencies.
The OEM’s responsibilities include:
Organizing emergency training
Coordinating the Citizen Emergency Response Teams and Citizen’s Emergency
Managing preparations and responses to natural or man-made disasters
With its comprehensive approach to emergency management, Hillsborough County is well-prepared to confront and overcome the challenges that may arise from unforeseen events.
In conclusion, Hillsborough County’s unique position within Central Florida and the Tampa Bay Area offers a fascinating perspective on the region’s geography, culture, and economy. With its diverse population, thriving industries, and comprehensive infrastructure, the county is a testament to the resilience and spirit of Florida’s west-central coast. As we have explored the many facets of Hillsborough County, it is clear that it is an essential and vibrant part of both Central Florida and the broader Sunshine State.
Tampa is located in West Central Florida, but is more commonly associated with the Tampa Bay area and the Suncoast, rather than being part of Central Florida, which typically refers to the major cities of Tampa and Orlando.
Hillsborough County is situated in West Central Florida, making it part of the U.S. state of Florida.
South Central Florida is comprised of DeSoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands and Okeechobee counties, providing easy access to beaches and Lake Okeechobee. Enjoy the city life or outdoor activities available in this region!
West Central Florida is a region in the United States comprising Tampa Bay and its surrounding counties of Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk and Sumter. It encompasses major cities like Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater.
The Tampa Bay Area is composed of three major cities: Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater.
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