History:

• The city has a rich history dating back to the 1830s when it was originally a fort during the Second Seminole War. The fort was named after Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin K. Pierce, brother of future President Franklin Pierce.
• Over the years, Fort Pierce has grown into a diverse and vibrant community.

Economy:

• Historically, Fort Pierce has been associated with agriculture, particularly the citrus industry. Fishing and seafood processing have also been important economic activities.
• Today, the city’s economy is more diversified, with a focus on tourism, healthcare, education, and some manufacturing.

Attractions:

• Fort Pierce offers various attractions and activities. The downtown area has a historic district with charming shops, galleries, and restaurants.
• The Sunrise Theatre is a notable cultural venue that hosts concerts, performances, and events.
• The city has several parks, including the Fort Pierce Inlet State Park and Jetty Park, which are popular for outdoor activities such as fishing, picnicking, and bird watching.

Education:

• Fort Pierce is home to Indian River State College, providing educational opportunities for residents and contributing to the cultural and intellectual life of the city.

Transportation:

• The city is accessible via major highways, including Interstate 95, making it easy to reach other parts of Florida.
• The Treasure Coast International Airport serves the region, providing air travel options.

Marine Industry:

• Given its coastal location, Fort Pierce has a significant marine industry. The Fort Pierce Inlet supports commercial and recreational boating activities.

Community Events:

• Fort Pierce hosts various community events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its cultural diversity and fostering a sense of community.

 

Population:

• Population (2023): 49,375
• Population change (2010-2020): Appx. 9% increase
• Married population (2023): 44%
• Median age (2023): 39.5
• Residents under 18 (2023): 23.8%
• Residents over 65 (2023): 20.8%
• Population by sex (2023): female (51.7%), male (48.3%)
• % of Homeowners compared to Renters (2023): Homeowners (47.3%) / Renters (52.7%)
• Poverty rate compared to the US national average (2022): 29% vs the average of 11.5%

Demographics (2021):

• • Black Non Hispanic – 43.1%

• • White Non Hispanic – 32.4%

• • White Hispanic – 9.69%

• • Other Hispanic – 3.59%

• • Asian – 1.13%

• • Multiracial Hispanic – 1.15%

Income:

• • Median household income (2022): $45,121

• • Average Income per Capita (2022): $23,834

( Prices reflect dates specified only )

Tax:

• • County property tax rate (2023): 0.94% of a property’s assessed fair market value

 

• • Combined state and county sales tax rate (2023): 7%

 

Cost of Living:

• Average cost of living compared to the US national average (2023): Slightly Lower
• Cost of housing compared to the Florida average (2023): Lower
• Cost of food compared to the US national average (2023): Appx. same
• Cost of healthcare compared to the US national average (2023): Appx. same
• Cost of utilities compared to the US national average (2023): 9% Higher
• Cost of transportation compared to the US national average (2023): Appx. same

Political Affiliation based on the 2024 election results ( St. Lucie County ):

• Republican: 49.1%
• Democrat: 48.7%
• Other: 2.2%

Largest 3 Employers (2022):

• Lawnwood Regional Medical Center
• Indian River State College
• St. Lucie County School District

School Ratings:

• Top 3 highest rated school districts: St. Lucie County School District, Martin County School District, and Indian River County School District (2022).

Coastal:

• Yes

Average Low and High Temperature:

• • Low: 19 °C

 

• • High: 27.4 °C

 

Fun Facts:

Fort Pierce is known as the Sunrise City and is the birthplace of famous artist A.E. Backus.

Location and Amenities:

Highways:

• I-95 is the major north-south interstate highway. It passes west of Fort Pierce. The exact distance depends on your location within Fort Pierce, but it’s roughly 10-15 miles away.
• Florida’s Turnpike is another major highway, located to the west. The distance varies, but it’s generally around 15-20 miles away.

International Airports:

• Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) is approximately 70-80 miles south of Fort Pierce, accessible via I-95.
• Orlando International Airport (MCO) is about 120-130 miles northwest, accessible via Florida’s Turnpike.

Universities and Colleges:

• Indian River State College is in Fort Pierce itself.
• Florida Atlantic University’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute is also in Fort Pierce.
• Further universities and colleges can be found in cities like West Palm Beach, about 70 miles south.

Hospitals:

• Lawnwood Regional Medical Center is a major hospital in Fort Pierce.
• St. Lucie Medical Center is another hospital in the area.

Shopping Malls:

• Fort Pierce doesn’t have large shopping malls, but there are local shopping centers. For more extensive shopping options, you may need to travel to areas like Port St. Lucie or West Palm Beach.

Major Cities:

• Port St. Lucie is the nearest city and is adjacent to Fort Pierce.
• West Palm Beach is about 70 miles south.
• Orlando is approximately 120-130 miles northwest.

Short Term Rental Regulations:

** All short term rental operations in Florida must obtain a business license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation ( DBPR ) and a Florida Department of Revenue Certificate of Sales and Use. ** Short term rental regulations can be subject to change and should always be confirmed with city / towns or county departments.

Restrictions:

• Rental periods of 30 Days or less are considered short term rental periods in Fort Pierce county.
• Interior and exterior sketch of property to be submitted.
• Responsible party must confirm with Sexual offender list for transient occupants.

For information visit: cityoffortpierce.com