H ernando County, Florida to the Native Americans was found to be a Garden of Eden. The vast amount of rivers, lakes and streams were loaded with fish. There was plenty of deer in the inland forests, and an abundance of oyster beds around the Gulf of Mexico. The climate was perfect for agriculture and this was and is truly a paradise. This vast and beautiful patchwork of wetland and forest gives the whole region character as "Florida's Nature Coast". Located approximately 35 miles north of downtown Tampa, Hernando County covers 312,000 acres (477 sq. miles), stretching 37 miles from east to west and 18 miles from north to south. The fortunate residents of Hernando County are also bordered by the Gulf of Mexico on the west. Hernando County shares close economic and commuter ties with Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas Counties to the south.

Construction, health care, mining, electronics, and tourism fuel the county's economy. Hernando County's relative isolation kept its population low until the completion of Interstate 75 and massive business growth in the Tampa Bay area. Many discovered that the area was convenient and that it was possible to live in Hernando County and work in Tampa. They now have a closer commute with the completion of the Suncoast Parkway Project, a 42-mile toll road. Hernando County has experienced a tremendous growth rate in the past ten years, with a current population of 143,449 as estimated by the US Census Bureau.

Comprised of several small communities, each offers its own ingredient of charm and character, creating an individual blend of Florida living. Brooksville, the county seat, is a pleasant, scenic town located about an hour north of Tampa. The history and southern charm of Brooksville are a fresh breath of vitality that illuminates Brooksville and other small towns along Florida's Sun Coast. On the Westside of Hernando County lie Aripeka, Bayport and Pine Island. These coastal communities bordering the Gulf of Mexico are rich in water recreation, fishing, swimming, boating and canoeing. While away from the traffic and beaten path is Weeki Wachee, a peaceful river respite. Inland, the small town of Masaryktown still retains its European roots. Hernando County's largest community is Spring Hill, having experienced extreme growth and prosperity since its creation by the Deltona Corporation in the 1960s. Ridge Manor and Ridge Manor West are located east of Brooksville along the edge of the Withlacoochee State Forest, while Istachatta and Nobleton embrace a beautiful wilderness waterway along the northern edge. It's the geographic diversity of Hernando County that appeals to the newcomers and locals alike. The average median house values in Hernando County range from $101,000 - $151,000.

Like the land in Hernando County, the housing choices are vastly diverse. There is everything to choose from including single-family homes in all sizes, apartments, condos, town homes or if you prefer you can build from scratch using any one of Hernando County’s many home builders. Your options can also consist of homes in retirement communities, master planned communities, and houses on or near golf courses. The possibilities are endless for anyone looking to live in Hernando County.

With an average January temperature of 60 degrees, year-round outdoor recreation is the mantra in Hernando County. Hunting, fishing, camping, paddling, birding, and hiking are just a few of the many recreational opportunities enjoyed by the residents of Hernando County. Championship golf courses, paved or wilderness bicycle trails, and the Croom Motorcycle Recreation Area are just some of the many things that contribute to the superior quality of life here. The Withlacoochee and Weeki Wachee Rivers as well as at the Silver Lake Recreation Area, and the first-magnitude Weeki Wachee Springs lend themselves to a variety of water-influenced activities.

The amazing centralized location of Hernando County provides easy access to all of central Florida's famed attractions including Disney World, Universal Studios, Busch Gardens, and Sea World. There is also fabulous outlet shopping and the dining choices are sure to delight even the most finicky palates. If you are in Hernando County, don’t miss the annual Hernando County BBQ and Rodeo Festival, where the community spirit is so must in abundance, you can almost touch it. Life in Hernando County, Florida has a unique quality to it that can’t be found anywhere in the world. It is the ideal place to meet all of your needs, whether you are looking to live, work, retire or raise a family. If you are considering moving to Hernando County, or if you would like more information please feel free to request a "free relocation package" today!