FLORIDA’S 8 ECONOMIC REGIONS
September 7, 2022 | John J. Pasquini
Florida is an ever-growing and economically expanding state. Its regions are diverse and financially advantageous for entrepreneurs, investors, and laborers.
Northwest Region
The Northwest Region is a sixteen-county region that borders Alabama and is a major region for manufacturing. Its key industries include:
- Aerospace
- Defense
- Distribution and Logistics
- Cybersecurity
Florida’s Great Northwest and Opportunity Florida are Northwest Florida’s regional economic development organizations.
North Central Region
Bordering Georgia, the North Central Florida region embodies Florida’s rural community. Its low-cost land and strong rail and highway infrastructure make it ideal for renewable energy, solar farms, and agriculture.
The North Florida Economic Development Partnership facilitates economic development in this region.
Northeast Region
Northeast Florida is a seven-county region known for its innovation, talent, job opportunities, and quality of life. It is the home of Fortune 500 headquarters, top-tier healthcare institutions, and startups. The region’s industries include:
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Health and Biomedical Services
- Financial Services
Its economic development organization is JAXUSA Partnership.
Tampa Bay Region
The Tampa Bay region is an eight-county dynamic cost and business-friendly locale. The area includes great startups, midsize businesses, corporate headquarters, and efficient logistics (with access to the Port of Tampa Bay and the Tampa Bay International Airport). Its major industries include:
- Financial Services
- Information Technology
- Life Sciences and Healthcare
- Defense and Security
Tampa’s high quality of life at affordable costs makes it an appealing area for business development and living.
Orlando Space Coast
The Orlando-Space Coast region is known for its entrepreneurs, dreamers, and a talented workforce. Its major industries include:
- Aerospace and Defense
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Life Sciences and Health
- Tourism
Orlando-Space Coast’s quality transportation, infrastructure, and livability make it an appealing place to live, work, and start a business.
South Central
South-Central Florida is a six-county region located in the center of the state. Its central location and access to 10 municipal and regional airports make it an ideal hub for manufacturing and distributing global and domestic goods and services. Its major industries include:
- Global logistics and Distributions
- Manufacturing
- Agriculture and Agribusiness
- Life Sciences
- Medical Services
Economic development support comes from the Florida Heartland Economic Region of Opportunity.
Southwest
The three-county Southwest region of Florida is known for its pristine beaches, life sciences, and quality of life. Its major industries include:
- Financial Services
- Medical Device Manufacturing
- Distribution and Logistics
- Tourism
Southwest Florida Economic Development Alliance is responsible for helping companies flourish.
Southeast
Southeast Florida’s seven-county region is the preeminent locale for economic growth and opportunity. Home of the economic powers of Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beach, the Southeast region is known for its unmatched domestic and global connectivity to markets via ports, airports, highways, and railways. The region’s primary industries include:
- Financial Services
- Corporate Headquarters
- Life Sciences
- Aviation and Aerospace
- Distribution and Logistics
Within Florida’s eight economic regions are found something for all who endeavor to seek their dreams.
Source: https://www.enterpriseflorida.com/why-florida/regions/#li-modal