Florida Counties Ranked By Size
Florida is known for its beaches, theme parks, and warm weather. But the Sunshine State is also home to 67 counties that vary greatly in size. If you’re curious to know which Florida counties are the biggest and smallest, you’ve come to the right place.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Palm Beach County is the largest county in Florida at over 2,000 square miles, while Union County is the smallest at just 240 square miles.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll rank all of Florida’s counties from largest to smallest by land area. We’ll highlight key details about the 10 biggest and 10 smallest counties. You’ll also find tables clearly showing the size ranking of every Florida county.
The 10 Largest Counties in Florida
Palm Beach County
Palm Beach County is the largest county in Florida, covering an area of approximately 2,383 square miles. Located on the southeastern coast of the state, Palm Beach County is home to over 1.5 million residents.
The county is known for its beautiful beaches, upscale communities, and vibrant cultural scene. With its warm climate and abundance of recreational activities, Palm Beach County is a popular destination for tourists and retirees alike.
Collier County
Collier County is the second-largest county in Florida, spanning an area of around 2,025 square miles. Situated in the southwestern part of the state, Collier County is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Everglades National Park and the Ten Thousand Islands.
The county’s largest city, Naples, is a popular tourist destination with its luxurious resorts, golf courses, and pristine beaches.
Miami-Dade County
Miami-Dade County is the third-largest county in Florida and one of the most populous in the United States. Covering an area of approximately 1,946 square miles, Miami-Dade County is home to over 2.7 million residents.
The county is renowned for its vibrant multiculturalism, stunning architecture, and world-famous beaches. Miami, the county seat, is a major international hub for business, tourism, and entertainment.
Lee County
Lee County, located in Southwest Florida, is the fourth-largest county in the state. With an area of approximately 1,211 square miles, Lee County is known for its beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, including the popular destination of Fort Myers Beach.
The county is also home to the city of Cape Coral, one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. Lee County attracts visitors with its warm climate, outdoor recreational opportunities, and thriving arts and culture scene.
Hendry County
Hendry County, situated in the southwestern part of Florida, is the fifth-largest county in the state. Covering an area of approximately 1,190 square miles, Hendry County is known for its rural charm and agricultural heritage.
The county’s main industries include farming, cattle ranching, and sugar production. Hendry County offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional Florida lifestyle and is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts to explore nature.
Broward County
Broward County is the sixth-largest county in Florida, covering an area of approximately 1,323 square miles. Located in South Florida, Broward County is known for its diverse population, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
The county’s largest city, Fort Lauderdale, is a popular tourist destination with its beautiful waterfront promenade, upscale shopping, and dining options.
Osceola County
Osceola County is the seventh-largest county in Florida, spanning an area of approximately 1,506 square miles. Located in Central Florida, Osceola County is known for its proximity to major tourist attractions, including Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort.
The county offers visitors a range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and golfing. Kissimmee, the county seat, is a popular destination for families looking to explore the theme parks and enjoy a fun-filled vacation.
Polk County
Polk County is the eighth-largest county in Florida, covering an area of approximately 1,875 square miles. Situated in Central Florida, Polk County is known for its picturesque lakes, citrus groves, and historic landmarks.
The county offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. Polk County’s largest city, Lakeland, is home to several cultural and educational institutions, making it an excellent destination for art and history enthusiasts.
Charlotte County
Charlotte County is the ninth-largest county in Florida, spanning an area of approximately 858 square miles. Located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Charlotte County is known for its pristine beaches, waterfront communities, and abundant wildlife.
The county’s largest city, Punta Gorda, offers a charming downtown area with shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Charlotte County is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and outdoor enthusiasts.
St. Johns County
St. Johns County is the tenth-largest county in Florida, covering an area of approximately 822 square miles. Situated in Northeast Florida, St. Johns County is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and charming coastal towns.
The county’s largest city, St. Augustine, is the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the United States. St. Johns County attracts visitors with its historic sites, recreational activities, and natural beauty.
The 10 Smallest Counties in Florida
1. Union County
Union County is the smallest county in Florida, covering an area of approximately 240 square miles. Located in the northern part of the state, Union County is known for its rural charm and friendly community.
Despite its small size, the county offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing and hiking.
2. Baker County
Baker County is another small county in Florida, spanning an area of about 589 square miles. With its picturesque landscapes and close-knit community, Baker County is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The county is home to several state parks and wildlife management areas, providing ample opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and camping.
3. Hamilton County
Hamilton County is a small county in Florida, covering an area of around 514 square miles. Located in the northern part of the state, Hamilton County offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life.
The county is known for its natural beauty, with numerous springs, rivers, and forests that provide a perfect setting for outdoor activities.
4. Lafayette County
Lafayette County, spanning an area of approximately 545 square miles, is one of the smallest counties in Florida. Nestled in the heart of North Florida, Lafayette County boasts a rich history and a close-knit community.
The county’s natural beauty, including the Suwannee River, attracts visitors looking to explore the great outdoors.
5. Suwannee County
Suwannee County is a small county in Florida, covering an area of about 692 square miles. With its lush forests, crystal-clear springs, and abundant wildlife, Suwannee County offers a paradise for nature lovers.
The county is also home to the Suwannee River, a popular spot for fishing, boating, and kayaking.
6. Liberty County
Liberty County is a small county in Florida, spanning approximately 836 square miles. Located in the panhandle region, Liberty County is known for its rich history and natural beauty. The county offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, hunting, and birdwatching.
7. Bradford County
Bradford County is a small county in Florida, covering an area of around 293 square miles. Situated in the northeastern part of the state, Bradford County offers a mix of rural charm and modern amenities.
The county is known for its scenic landscapes and is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing and camping.
8. Gulf County
Gulf County is a small county in Florida, spanning approximately 558 square miles. Located in the panhandle region, Gulf County is known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and diverse wildlife. The county offers a range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and swimming.
9. Nassau County
Nassau County is a small county in Florida, covering an area of about 726 square miles. Situated in the northeastern part of the state, Nassau County is known for its beautiful coastline, historic landmarks, and vibrant community.
The county offers a variety of recreational activities, including beachcombing, golfing, and exploring nature trails.
10. Levy County
Levy County is a small county in Florida, spanning approximately 1,118 square miles. Located on the Gulf Coast, Levy County is known for its natural beauty, including numerous springs, rivers, and wildlife preserves.
The county offers a range of outdoor activities, such as boating, fishing, and snorkeling.
Full Ranking of All Florida Counties by Size
Florida is home to 67 counties, each with its own unique characteristics and attractions. From the bustling cities of Miami-Dade and Broward to the serene landscapes of Franklin and Liberty, there is something for everyone in the Sunshine State.
In this article, we will provide a full ranking of all Florida counties by size, giving you an insight into the geographical diversity that Florida has to offer.
1. Miami-Dade County
Miami-Dade County is the largest county in Florida, both in terms of population and land area. With its vibrant city of Miami, beautiful beaches, and diverse cultural scene, it is no wonder that Miami-Dade County attracts millions of visitors each year.
2. Palm Beach County
Located just north of Miami-Dade County, Palm Beach County is the second-largest county in Florida. Known for its luxurious resorts, pristine golf courses, and upscale shopping destinations, Palm Beach County offers a high-end lifestyle with a touch of tropical charm.
3. Broward County
Coming in third is Broward County, which includes the city of Fort Lauderdale. With its stunning coastline, vibrant nightlife, and thriving arts scene, Broward County is a popular destination for both tourists and residents alike.
4. Collier County
Collier County, located on the southwestern coast of Florida, is the fourth-largest county in the state. Home to the picturesque city of Naples and the Everglades National Park, Collier County offers a unique blend of natural beauty and luxury living.
5. Orange County
Situated in central Florida, Orange County is home to the city of Orlando, which is known for its world-famous theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort. With its booming tourism industry and vibrant entertainment scene, Orange County is a major player in Florida’s economy.
6. Hillsborough County
Hillsborough County, located on the west coast of Florida, is the sixth-largest county in the state. It is home to the city of Tampa, which offers a mix of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and a vibrant sports scene.
7. Duval County
Duval County, situated in northeast Florida, is home to the city of Jacksonville, which is not only the largest city in Florida but also the largest city by land area in the contiguous United States. With its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and thriving business community, Duval County has a lot to offer.
8. Pinellas County
Pinellas County, located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, is known for its stunning beaches, including the popular Clearwater Beach. With its warm climate, outdoor recreational opportunities, and lively arts scene, Pinellas County is a favorite destination for both residents and tourists.
9. Lee County
Lee County, situated in southwest Florida, is home to the city of Fort Myers. With its year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, and abundant wildlife, Lee County offers a laid-back lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
10. Brevard County
Brevard County, located on Florida’s east coast, is known as the Space Coast. It is home to the Kennedy Space Center, where NASA launches its space missions. With its stunning beaches, diverse wildlife, and rich history, Brevard County is a fascinating place to explore.
These are just a few highlights from the full ranking of all Florida counties by size. Each county in Florida has its own unique charm and attractions, making the Sunshine State a truly diverse and exciting place to live or visit.
For more information on the rankings of Florida counties by size, you can visit the U.S. Census Bureau website.
Conclusion
We’ve covered a lot of ground exploring Florida’s biggest and smallest counties. Palm Beach County tops the list as the largest, while tiny Union County comes in at number 67.
Florida’s counties vary widely in size due to historical and geographical factors. Understanding the size differences can give you a better sense of the diversity found across the Sunshine State.
Whether you’re a Florida resident or just visiting, we hope this county size guide gave you some interesting facts about the state. Happy exploring Florida!
