Hillsborough County Fl

Hillsborough County is located in the west-central portion of the U.S. state of Florida. In the 2020 census, the population was 1,459,762, making it the fourth-most populous county in Florida and the most populous county outside the Miami metropolitan area. Wikipedia

Cities: Tampa, Riverview, Brandon, Plant City, Lutz, Ruskin, Valrico · See more

Population: 1.581 million (2024)

Superintendent: Superintendent Van Ayres abcactionnews.com

Congressional districts: 14th, 15th, 16th

Founded: January 25, 1834

Largest city: Tampa

Named after: Wills Hill, Earl of Hillsborough

An Overview of Hillsborough County, Florida

Hillsborough County is a large and bustling county on the west coast of Florida, centrally located in the Tampa Bay metropolitan area. As the fourth most populous county in Florida, it serves as a major hub for business, culture, and recreation. The county’s blend of urban centers, like the city of Tampa, and its extensive natural preserves and suburban communities make it a dynamic and diverse place to live and visit.

Key Statistics and Economic Drivers

Hillsborough County’s economic and demographic profile reflects its position as a major Florida metropolitan area.

• Population & Demographics: The population of Hillsborough County is approximately 1.58 million people as of 2024, showing steady growth. The median age is around 37.9 years, making it younger and more dynamic than the state average. The county is highly diverse, with a significant Hispanic population (around 30%), and large Black and Asian communities.
• Economy & Industries: The economy of Hillsborough County is one of the most diversified in the state.
  • Financial & Professional Services: This is a major industry, with Tampa serving as a hub for banking, insurance, and investment firms.
  • Life Sciences & Healthcare: The county has a thriving healthcare sector, with numerous hospitals, research institutions, and biotech companies.
  • Defense & Security: Hillsborough County is home to MacDill Air Force Base, which has a significant economic impact and supports a large veteran workforce.
  • Logistics & Distribution: The county’s location on the I-4 corridor and its access to Port Tampa Bay make it a key center for transportation, logistics, and distribution.
• Weather: Hillsborough County enjoys a humid subtropical climate, with hot and wet summers and mild, dry winters. Average high temperatures range from the low 70s °F in January to the low 90s °F in July and August.

Top Places for Visitors to Explore in Hillsborough County

Hillsborough County offers a vast number of attractions, blending urban excitement with natural beauty.

• Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: This is a premier theme park and zoo that provides a full day of family fun. Visitors can experience world-class roller coasters, see exotic animals in a zoo-like setting, and enjoy live entertainment.
• The Florida Aquarium: Located in downtown Tampa, this highly-rated aquarium showcases a stunning variety of aquatic and terrestrial animals. You can walk through a simulated Florida wetlands habitat, see a coral reef ecosystem, and enjoy interactive exhibits.
• ZooTampa at Lowry Park: A top-rated conservation-focused zoo, ZooTampa features over 2,000 animals in natural habitats. The zoo offers unique animal encounters and is famous for its manatee critical care center, which rescues and rehabilitates injured manatees.
• Tampa Riverwalk: This 2.6-mile scenic path runs along the Hillsborough River, connecting many of Tampa’s downtown attractions. Visitors can stroll or bike along the water, stopping at museums, parks, and restaurants like Sparkman Wharf.
• Ybor City: Known as Tampa’s historic Latin Quarter, Ybor City is a National Historic Landmark District. Its brick-lined streets are home to historic cigar factories, vibrant nightlife, and authentic Cuban and Spanish cuisine.
• Hillsborough River State Park: For outdoor enthusiasts, this park offers a chance to experience the “real Florida.” You can hike, camp, paddle, and view the rare Class II rapids on the Hillsborough River.
• Glazer Children’s Museum: Located on the Tampa Riverwalk, the Glazer Children’s Museum provides a hands-on, interactive learning environment for children. It offers dozens of exhibits designed to spark curiosity and creativity.
• Henry B. Plant Museum: Housed in a beautiful Victorian-era hotel that is now part of the University of Tampa campus, the Henry B. Plant Museum showcases the lavish lifestyle of the Gilded Age. Visitors can tour the restored rooms and learn about the history of the railroad in Florida.