List of the Top 10 Safest Cities in Florida From Hurricanes

When you think of Florida, you imagine beautiful beaches, exciting nightlife, and endless sunshine. Unfortunately, hurricanes can wreak havoc on some parts of the state. If you’re planning to move or buy a home in Florida, it’s essential to know which areas are the safest from natural disasters. In this article, we’ll explore the cities in Florida that are least likely to be affected by hurricanes.

10 Safest Cities in Florida From Hurricanes

1. 1. Palatka
   2. Lake City
   3. Leesburg
   4. Orlando
   5. Sanford
   6. Kissimmee
   7. The Villages
   8. Ocala
   9. Gainesville
   10. Fernandina Beach 

1. Palatka

Palatka, located inland near Jacksonville and St. Augustine along the St. Johns River, is renowned for being the safest city in Florida from hurricanes. Despite being a small town with a population of 10,558, it offers great locations near beaches and downtown Jacksonville. Palatka has its own cultural festivals and is home to St. Johns River State College.

2. Lake City

Located in North Florida, Lake City boasts a population of 12,329 and is widely regarded as one of the safest cities in the state when it comes to hurricanes. Thanks to its distance from the ocean and low flooding risk, the city is well-protected from these natural disasters. Positioned just 60 miles west of Jacksonville, Lake City is home to a range of top employers in retail and manufacturing industries.

3. Leesburg 

Leesburg, situated in the central part of Florida, is a favored spot for retirees due to its low risk of being affected by hurricanes or tropical storms. With a population of 20,117, the city is located northeast of Orlando and is also known for its minimal risk of flooding. Lake-Sumter State College and Beacon College are two of the well-known educational institutions in Leesburg.

4. Orlando

Orlando, a top destination in Florida, has been ranked as the fourth safest city in the state for hurricanes, with the last major hurricane hitting the city almost 20 years ago. Orlando is renowned for its popular attractions, including SeaWorld, Disney World, Universal Studios, museums, and annual conventions. With a population of 307,573, Orlando has been recognized as a global city boasting a robust technological sector.

5. Sanford

Located northeast of Orlando, Sanford is a small city with a population of 61,051. This charming city boasts low hurricane and flooding risk, making it a great place to live or visit. One of the popular attractions in Sanford is the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, which is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Another interesting site is the Historic Sanford Memorial Stadium, which is a great spot for sports lovers. Every year, the city also hosts the Annual Oktoberfest, which is a fun event for locals and tourists alike. Thanks to the commuter rail, Sanford is well-connected to the rest of central Florida, making traveling easy and convenient.

6. Kissimmee

With a population of 79,226, Kissimmee is a city situated 20 miles south of Orlando, making it one of the safest cities in Florida from hurricanes. Kissimmee is a central Florida city that is protected from tropical storms and flooding. The city is located on the northwest shore of Lake Tohopekaliga, and it is home to several wildlife sanctuaries. Some of the must-see attractions in Kissimmee include the Colonial Estate, the Monument of States, and the Old Town district.

7. The Villages

Located 45 miles northwest of Orlando in Sumter and Mario Counties, The Villages is a community with a population of 79,077. With its location 35 miles from the coast and 75 meters above sea level, the city has a low risk of hurricanes and flooding. The Villages is a gated community exclusively for adults aged 55 and older, featuring various golf courses, annual marathons, and recreation centers.

8. Ocala 

With a population of 63,591, Ocala is a city situated in north-central Florida that boasts a unique advantage of being safe from most natural disasters due to its inland location and elevation above sea level. The city is renowned for its rich equestrian culture and is home to more than 400 thoroughbred horse farms and training centers, earning it the title of “The Horse Capital of the World” in 2007. Apart from this, Ocala is also home to several notable attractions such as the Ocala National Forest, Silver Springs State Park, and the College Central Florida.

9. Gainesville

With a population of 339,247, Gainesville is a well-known tourist destination situated in north Florida. Its distance from the coast makes it a relatively safe area from hurricanes. The city boasts various attractions, such as the University of Florida and Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, among others. Aside from its tourist appeal, Gainesville also has a thriving economy and is recognized for its excellent startup culture.

10. Fernandina Beach 

Located in the Greater Jacksonville area of northeast Florida, Fernandina Beach boasts a rich history and a number of attractions. Despite its coastal location, it is considered to be at low risk for hurricanes and tropical storms. History enthusiasts can explore the Civil War-era Fort Clinch, as well as the Fairbanks House, Fort Clinch State Park, and the Historic Nassau County Courthouse.

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