11 Best Places For Black Families To Live In Florida – An Absolute Guide
Best places for Black families to live in Florida provide many benefits that make it an attractive destination for Black people searching for a place to call home. The state’s economy is very strong and booming rapidly with diverse industries like energy, technology, healthcare, and aerospace, providing abundant employment opportunities and career growth potential.
Florida is the third most populated state in the United States and the fastest growing.
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Additionally, Florida is known for its affordability compared to many other states, offering an incredibly lower living cost and more affordable housing options.
Florida embraces cultural diversity influenced by various historical and ethnic backgrounds.
Related: Best Places to Live in Florida Panhandle
Florida has no income tax, allowing residents to retain a higher percentage of their earnings.
A significant consideration for many black families is finding a city that fosters a sense of community and inclusivity. It includes looking for neighborhoods that offer a diverse population and great schools that provide opportunities for their children to thrive.
Related: Best Computer Science Schools In Florida
When raising children as a parent, you want the city you live in to have good schools; it’s also important that it has a low cost of living, job opportunities, and a low crime rate.
To assist in this search, we have curated a list of 10 cities that offer a great mix of job opportunities, cultural representation, and affordable housing, making them the best places for black families to live in Florida.
We have found a balance of safety, affordability, and good schools. It could be that these cities are not perfect, but these places would be great places to raise a black family.
Florida adds over 300,000 residents each year. On average, that’s about 831 people a day, and by 2025, Florida is expected to have about 23.5 million people.
So, with all that said, here are the best places for black families to live in Florida.
Best Places For Black Families To Live In Florida
1. Gainesville, Florida
Home to the University of Florida, this city has much to offer. It’s a great city that’s likely one of Florida’s hidden gems, and for Floridians, it’s the best place in the Sunshine State.
With a combination of college town vitality and lots of natural beauty, this makes Gainesville one of the best places to live in Florida.
Gainesville, Florida, is an exceptional city for black families looking for a place to call home. Gainesville has been recognized as one of the best places to live for black families in Florida, offering a welcoming and inclusive community that embraces a diverse population of black communities.
With a black population of approximately 21.4%, Gainesville provides a close-knit, supportive, and welcoming community.
Gainesville has diverse cuisines and offers a great selection for casual dining and fine dining.
Also Read: Best Restaurants Seaside Florida
Overall, Gainesville offers an excellent quality of life, affordable costs of living, excellent schools, and a thriving cultural scene that collaborates diversity.
These factors make it a perfect option for black families seeking a warm and inclusive black community to settle down.
Recent Stats
| Population | 143,388 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.4 % |
| Poverty Rate | 28.54 % |
| Median Home Value | $273K |
| Median Income | $61,590 |
| Black Family’s Population | 21.4 % |
2. Tallahassee, Florida
As the capital city of Florida, it boasts a diverse population of approximately 213,754 people and a vibrant economy with major employers in various industries.
Tallahassee is a great city for black families due to its diversity, housing market, and job opportunities. Tallahassee enjoys warm and sunny weather in the central part of Florida state.
It is surrounded by several bodies of water, including Lake Jackson, Lake Hall, Lake Talquin, Lake Munson, Lake Lafayette, Lake Miccoosukee, Wakulla River, Lake Ella, and Lake Lamonia.
With a black population of 37.1%, Tallahassee is a melting pot of cultures, including Apalachee, Muskogee, Spanish, French, British, American, Black African American, Asian, and other Caribbean cultures.
The city offers many opportunities for connecting with African Americans and other black people.
The cost of living and unemployment rates are lower than national averages, although the poverty rate is slightly higher. Crime is a concern, with a violent crime rate higher than expected.
Despite this, Tallahassee’s strengths as a city make it a great place for black families to call home.
Recent Stats
| Population | 213,754 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.8 % |
| Poverty Rate | 24.3 % |
| Median Home Value | $275K |
| Median Income | $45,788 |
| Black Family’s Population | 37.1 % |
3. Jacksonville, Florida
Jacksonville is the largest city in Florida and is situated in Duval County, the northeastern part of Florida. Jacksonville offers inexpensive living in one of the most affordable states in the United States.
The city’s population is nearly 31.2% black families making it a diverse and inclusive community that welcomes people from all walks of life. Despite a poverty rate of 14.5%, Jacksonville has a lower crime rate making it a safe place to raise a family.
The healthcare and retail industries are the city’s largest and have experienced strong recent growth.
Florida State College at Jacksonville offers additional job opportunities. While the median income is low, housing costs are also lower.
Overall, Jacksonville offers a great quality of life for black families seeking a welcoming community and affordable living.
Recent Stats
| Population | 974,045 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.3 % |
| Poverty Rate | 14.7 % |
| Median Home Value | $295,788 |
| Median Income | $79,820 |
| Black Family’s Population | 31.2 % |
4. Orlando, Florida
Orlando is ideal for black families due to its affordability and excellent public schools. Its rich cultural scene includes world-class museums, art galleries, and performance venues.
Orlando is a diverse and inclusive community, with a population of nearly 23.5% black families, 34.5% Hispanic, and 55% White.
The city’s low unemployment rate of 2.78% is another draw, and Florida’s lack of state income tax is a significant perk for residents.
With over ten theme parks, Orlando boasts one of the country’s top theme park systems, making it a great choice for families.
The city also has several professional sports teams, including the Orlando Guardians, Orlando Magic, Orlando Solar Bears, Orlando Pride, and Orlando City SC.
While poverty and crime rates in Orlando are challenges in some areas, the overall benefits of living in Orlando make it a great place to call home.
Recent Stats
| Population | 313,280 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3 % |
| Poverty Rate | 15.4 % |
| Median Home Value | $400K |
| Median Income | $88,180 |
| Black Family’s Population | 23.5 % |
5. Tampa, Florida
Tampa, Florida, is another top city for black families due to its rich history and diverse communities.
Home to renowned black institutions such as Keiser University, Paul Mitchell the School Tampa, and the University of South Florida, Tampa offers excellent educational opportunities for black students.
Also Read: Best Places to Live in South Florida for Families
With a strong economy and 2 Fortune 500 companies, the city has different career opportunities. Tampa is also known for its low crime rate and good schools, making it an ideal place to raise a family.
The city has a population of approximately 23.3% black people creating a welcoming and inclusive community for black families.
From its cultural institutions to its thriving economy Tampa is a great place to live for black families seeking a prosperous and diverse community.
Recent Stats
| Population | 396,245 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.6 % |
| Poverty Rate | 17.2 % |
| Median Home Value | $445K |
| Median Income | $97,847 |
| Black Family’s Population | 23.3 % |
6. Miami, Florida
Miami is a city rich in history and culture, making it an ideal to live for any family. For black families, specifically, Miami offers great representation, with approximately 13% of the population being black.
The city’s public schools are excellent, and it’s a very affordable place to live. Miami is home to several black-owned businesses and has a long history of welcoming all residents.
In addition to its rich history, Miami has a vibrant arts scene with different museums, galleries, and theaters.
The city is also known for its great food and festivals. With its combination of affordability, excellent schools, and rich cultures, black families are sure to find a warm welcome in Miami, Florida.
Recent Stats
| Population | 453,985 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.2 % |
| Poverty Rate | 20.8 % |
| Median Home Value | $588K |
| Median Income | $47,900 |
| Black Family’s Population | 13 % |
7. Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Fort Lauderdale is a thriving city in Broward County and the heart of the Southeastern part of Florida.
Fort Lauderdale has a diverse and inclusive community for black people, with almost 31.3% black population, with its beautiful beaches, vibrant cultures, and boating canals.
Various cultural attractions and events, including Jazz, Rib Fest, and other Caribbean, appeal to black families. Historic Stranahan House Museum and Bonnet House Museum & Gardens are also located in the city, offering a great opportunity to learn about black history and culture.
Fort Lauderdale has a strong economy and a low unemployment rate. The city also has several parks, including Synder Park, Esplanade Park, and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park.
The city’s public schools are some of the best in the state. Fort Lauderdale offers an affordable cost of living; however, the poverty rate of 11.7% is a concern.
The city experiences distinct seasons with cold winters and hot summers, making it a great place to experience the changing seasons.
Recent Stats
| Population | 186,613 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3 % |
| Poverty Rate | 11.7 % |
| Median Home Value | $550,450 |
| Median Income | $66,950 |
| Black Family’s Population | 31.3 % |
8. Naples, Florida
Naples, although with only 5.11% black population, is known as one of the best cities for black families in Florida State due to its long history of social justice and racial equality.
It is a highly progressive city with excellent schools and educational programs, making it a great place for black families to settle down.
The city’s scenic beauty and endless outdoor activities make it an ideal location to raise a family.
The low crime rate, other than burglary and robbery, makes Naples a safe place to live.
Furthermore, Naples is known for being a tech hub, which means there are plenty of job opportunities in tech-related fields.
Overall Naples’s inclusive and diverse culture, educational opportunities, and employment prospects make it an excellent place for black families to live.
Recent Stats
| Population | 2,109,157 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3 % |
| Poverty Rate | 6.4 % |
| Median Home Value | $847K |
| Median Income | $248,900 |
| Black Family’s Population | 5.11 % |
9. Palm Beach County, Florida
West Palm Beach City and Boca Raton City in Palm Beach County are the top cities for anyone to live in Florida.
With great schools, affordable housing options, and a vibrant cultural scene, it is easy to see why families prefer on top to call Palm Beach County home.
These cities have a diverse population, and black families will feel welcomed and supported.
In addition, to the beautiful beaches, these cities have beautiful beaches has plenty of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and golfing.
The cities also have home to several cultural attractions, such as the African American Cultural Center, where black families can learn about the rich history and heritage of black people in Palm Beach County.
The crime rate in Palm Beach County is relatively low, and residents can enjoy a safe and peaceful lifestyle.
With nearly 21% of the population being black, Palm Beach County is the best place for black families to thrive and build a strong community.
Recent Stats
| Population | 1,544,902 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.1 % |
| Poverty Rate | 3.91 % |
| Median Home Value | $489K |
| Median Income | $332,800 |
| Black Family’s Population | 21 % |
10. Tavares Florida, Florida
Tavares, with Disney World and Universal Studios pretty close. Your kids will probably want to move here tomorrow.
Tavares, Florida, is a city about an hour north of Orlando, it’s probably one of the smallest towns, but with 13% of the population of black people, many retirees also live there. It’s a good place to stick around once all the kids are grown up.
Lakes surround the town, so families have plenty of activities to do. Tavares is an affordable place with the cost of living.
Unemployment and median home value are all well below the national average. The crime rate is also 29% below the national average.
Recent Stats
| Population | 20,995 |
| Unemployment Rate | 11.39 % |
| Poverty Rate | 9.9 % |
| Median Home Value | $311,350 |
| Median Income | $49,320 |
| Black Family’s Population | 13 % |
11. Port St. Lucie, Florida
Port St. Lucie is a thriving city and a #1 place for black families to call home. With a population of approximately 19.2% black, Port St. Lucie is one of the most diverse cities in Florida.
The city boasts a strong job market, with numerous industries providing opportunities for well-paying jobs.
Public schools in Port St. Lucie are highly top-rated and renowned, with many awards in the last couple of years.
The city offers various after-school activities and programs to engage kids and connect to their community.
Port St. Lucie is known for its affordability, with the cost of living well below the national average.
The city’s rich history of inclusivity and diversity is also a major draw for black families.
Port St. Lucie is a welcoming community that celebrates and embraces all cultures and backgrounds.
The city offers diverse cultural attractions, including the African American Cultural Festival of Port St. Lucie, which showcases the art, music, and food of Black People.
In short, Port St. Lucie is an ideal place for black families looking to put down roots and build a life.
Recent Stats
| Population | 240,800 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.2 % |
| Poverty Rate | 6.41 % |
| Median Home Value | $493,900 |
| Median Income | $61,900 |
| Black Family’s Population | 19.2 % |
Conclusion
Finding the perfect city to call home is a common desire for everyone, regardless of their background or ethnicity. For black people, when moving to a new state with your family along with your kids, it’s really important to pay attention to the crime data, unemployment rate, state’s economy, best places to visit, safest area, cultural diversity, job opportunities, best schools in the area, and the affordable housing options.
This guide covers all the pre-details necessary to learn before deciding to move to a new state.
