Bradford County FL Health Insurance Agency

Bradford County is a rural county located in the north-central region of Florida, United States.

Area code: 904

Elevation: 161 ft (49 m)

Zip Codes: 32044, 32058, 32091, 32622

Population (2026): 28,649 (Projected)

GPS: Latitude: 29.9155 Longitude: -82.2505

An Overview of Bradford County, Florida

Bradford County is a historic, predominantly rural county in North Florida, serving as a gateway between the Gainesville and Jacksonville metropolitan areas. Established in 1858 as New River County, it was renamed in 1861 to honor Captain Richard Bradford, the first Florida officer killed in the Civil War. The county seat, Starke, grew into a regional hub thanks to the arrival of the Florida Railroad and later the construction of U.S. Route 301. The county is defined by its agricultural heritage—specifically its fame for producing some of the “sweetest strawberries this side of heaven”—and its vast pine forests and freshwater lakes. While it remains one of Florida’s smallest counties by land area, its strategic position and “Old Florida” charm make it a vital part of the North Florida landscape.

Key Statistics and Economic Overview

Bradford County’s demographics reflect a stable, rural community with a strong emphasis on traditional industries, government services, and proximity to the military.

• Population & Demographics: With a population of nearly 29,000, Bradford County maintains a low-density, rural character. The median age is approximately 40 years, reflecting a balanced mix of families and long-term residents. The county has a significant veteran population and a higher male-to-female ratio than the state average, largely due to the presence of major state correctional facilities.
  
• Economic Profile: The local economy is driven by government, transportation, and agriculture. Major employers include the Florida Department of Corrections, Shands Starke Regional Medical Center, and DuPont (mining operations). The retail sector is concentrated in Starke, while the rural areas focus on timber and strawberry farming. The median household income is approximately $63,050, showing steady growth as the county benefits from regional logistics and warehousing expansions.
  
• Housing and Lifestyle: Bradford County has a high homeownership rate of approximately 73%. The housing market consists primarily of single-family homes on expansive acreage, historic residences in downtown Starke, and lakeside properties. The lifestyle centers on outdoor recreation—hunting, fishing, and community festivals—maintained by the county’s quiet, country-living atmosphere.
  

Top Places for Visitors to Explore in Bradford County

Bradford County offers a variety of historic sites and natural preserves that showcase the rugged beauty of North Florida.

• Starke’s Call Street Historic District: This charming downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can stroll past late 19th-century architecture, visit the 1941 Art Deco Florida Twin Theatre, and explore local boutiques.
• Eugene L. Matthews Bradford County Historical Museum: Located in the historic Bradford Bank building, this museum offers an in-depth look at the county’s 150-year history, from its railroad beginnings to its agricultural milestones.
• Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park: Though located just over the county line, this park is a primary recreational hub for the area. It features rolling sandhills, deep ravines, and historic CCC-built cabins, offering miles of hiking on the Florida National Scenic Trail.
• Santa Fe Swamp Conservation Area: A must-visit for birdwatchers and hikers, this 7,272-acre preserve protects the headwaters of the Santa Fe River. It offers primitive trails through dense wetlands and is home to diverse native wildlife.
• Lake Sampson and Lake Hampton: These freshwater lakes are the center of the county’s water-based recreation. They are popular spots for local anglers seeking largemouth bass and for residents enjoying a quiet day of boating or kayaking.
• Bradford Sportsmen’s Farm: This 200-acre facility in Graham is a premier destination for shooting sports, featuring multiple ranges and world-class sporting-clay courses for beginners and marksmen alike.