HILLSBOROUGH County FL Health Insurance Agency

Hillsborough County is located in the west-central portion of the state of Florida. It is the fourth-most populous county in the state and the anchor of the Tampa Bay metropolitan area.

Area code: 813, 656

Elevation: 131 ft (40 m) at the highest point; County seat (Tampa) at 48 ft (15 m)

Zip Codes: 33503–33694 (Multiple)

Population (2026): 1,623,346 (Projected)

GPS: Latitude: 27.9170 Longitude: -82.3530

An Overview of Hillsborough County, Florida

Hillsborough County is a dynamic and expansive region that serves as the economic and cultural engine of Florida’s west coast. Established in 1834 and named after Wills Hill, the Earl of Hillsborough, the county originally encompassed a massive territory that was later divided into eight separate counties. Today, it is home to the city of Tampa, the county seat and a major global port, as well as the incorporated cities of Plant City and Temple Terrace. The county is geographically diverse, ranging from the high-density urban corridors of downtown Tampa to the fertile strawberry fields of the east and the coastal mangroves of the south. With its world-class international airport, professional sports franchises, and renowned university systems, Hillsborough County offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle balanced by a deep commitment to environmental preservation and historic character.

Key Statistics and Economic Overview

Hillsborough County’s demographics reflect a fast-growing, diverse, and economically robust population that drives the regional marketplace.

• Population & Demographics: With a population exceeding 1.6 million, the county is experiencing a steady annual growth rate of over 1.3%. The median age is approximately 38 years, indicating a workforce-age population younger than the Florida state average. The county is a true melting pot, featuring a prominent Hispanic community (nearly 30%) and a significant African American population (15%), which together contribute to a rich cultural and culinary landscape.
  
• Economic Profile: The county possesses a highly diversified economy with leadership in financial services, healthcare, maritime trade, and technology. It is home to Fortune 500 companies and MacDill Air Force Base, a major military and economic anchor. The average annual wage is approximately $75,287, with professional and business services making up the largest employment sector.
• Housing and Lifestyle: Hillsborough County offers a wide spectrum of living environments, from high-rise luxury condos along the Tampa Riverwalk to sprawling suburban estates in Westchase and FishHawk. While the homeownership rate remains strong at approximately 60%, the county is actively engaged in affordable housing initiatives to support its growing population. The lifestyle is defined by a “live-work-play” philosophy, supported by a massive system of over 300 miles of hiking trails and a world-class parks department.
  

Top Places for Visitors to Explore in Hillsborough County

From high-adrenaline theme parks to serene conservation areas, Hillsborough County provides immediate access to Florida’s most iconic attractions.

• Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: This 335-acre African-themed animal park is one of the most-visited attractions in the state. It features world-class roller coasters, live entertainment, and one of the largest zoos in North America, housing over 200 animal species.
• The Florida Aquarium: Located in the Channel District of downtown Tampa, this facility allows visitors to explore Florida’s diverse aquatic ecosystems. It is a leader in coral reef restoration and offers immersive experiences with sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays.
  
• Hillsborough River State Park: Opened in 1938, this is one of Florida’s oldest state parks. It offers rare Class II river rapids, miles of nature trails, and a glimpse into the region’s history at the reconstructed Fort Foster Historic Site.
  
• Ybor City National Historic Landmark District: Known as Tampa’s “Latin Quarter,” this historic district was once the cigar capital of the world. Today, it is a vibrant neighborhood filled with brick-lined streets, authentic Cuban bakeries, and a legendary nightlife scene.
  
• ZooTampa at Lowry Park: Frequently ranked as one of the best family-friendly zoos in the country, this park emphasizes the conservation of Florida wildlife, including manatees, Florida panthers, and red wolves.
• Lettuce Lake Conservation Park: Located in North Tampa, this 240-acre park features a massive boardwalk through a hardwood swamp and a 3,500-foot jogging trail. It is a premier destination for birdwatching and observing alligators in their natural habitat.