Florida, nicknamed “The Sunshine State,” is located in the southeastern region of the United States. Known for its warm climate, diverse culture, world-renowned beaches, and major theme parks, Florida is one of the most visited states in the U.S.
- Capital: Tallahassee
- Largest City: Jacksonville
- Most Populous Metro Area: Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach
- Statehood: Became the 27th state on March 3, 1845
- Population: Over 22 million (3rd most populous state)
- Borders: Georgia and Alabama to the north; Gulf of Mexico to the west; Atlantic Ocean to the east
- Official Language: English (widely spoken Spanish and Haitian Creole)
- Time Zones: Eastern (most of the state) & Central (part of the Panhandle)
Climate of Florida
Florida has a subtropical to tropical climate, making it warm and humid most of the year:
- Northern Florida: Humid subtropical with hot summers and mild winters
- Southern Florida (including Miami): Tropical climate with a wet and dry season
- Hurricane Season: June to November, with August to October being the peak months
- Average Temperature:
- Summer: 80–95°F (27–35°C)
- Winter: 50–75°F (10–24°C)
Major Cities in Florida
- Miami
- Orlando
- Tampa
- Jacksonville
- Tallahassee
- Fort Lauderdale
- St. Petersburg
- Hialeah
- Gainesville
- Sarasota
Top Universities in Florida
University of Florida (UF) – Gainesville
Florida State University (FSU) – Tallahassee
University of Miami (UM) – Coral Gables
University of Central Florida (UCF) – Orlando
Florida International University (FIU) – Miami
University of South Florida (USF) – Tampa
Florida Atlantic University (FAU) – Boca Raton
Famous Political and Scientific Figures from Florida
Politicians
- Marco Rubio – U.S. Senator from Florida
- Ron DeSantis – Former Governor and 2024 Presidential Candidate
- Jeb Bush – Former Governor (1999–2007)
Scientists/Innovators
- Robert Cade – Inventor of Gatorade, affiliated with University of Florida
- Dr. Paul Sanberg – Renowned neuroscientist at USF, known for stem cell research
