Gainesville is a city located in north-central Florida, in the United States. It is the largest city in Alachua County and home to the University of Florida, which is one of the largest universities in the United States.

Gainesville has a population of around 140,000 people, making it the seventh-largest city in Florida. It is known for its vibrant music scene, with a number of famous musicians, such as Tom Petty and Bo Diddley, having been born or lived in or near the city.

In addition to the University of Florida, Gainesville is also home to Santa Fe College, a state college with a wide range of degree programs. The city has a diverse economy, with industries such as healthcare, education, and technology contributing to its growth.

Gainesville is located near several natural attractions, including Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, which is a large wildlife preserve featuring hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The city also has a number of parks and recreational areas, such as Depot Park and the Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park.

Overall, Gainesville is a lively and diverse city with a strong sense of community, a thriving cultural scene, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Population:

• Population (2023): 145,812
• Median age (2023): 26.8
• Residents under 18 (2023): 13.6%
• Residents over 65 (2023): 11.1%
• Population by sex (2023): 52.2% – female, 47.8% – male
• Married Population (2023): 27%
• Homeowners and renters (2022): 38.5% homeowners, 61.5% renters
• Population change (2010-2020): Appx. 7% increase
• Poverty rate compared to the US national average (2022): 29% vs average of 11.5%

Demographics (2022):

• White Non Hispanic -55.3%
• Black Non Hispanic – 21.5%
• White Hispanic – 6%
• Asian – 6%
• Multiracial Non Hispanic – 4%
• Multiracial Hispanic – 4%

*Median prices shown are based only on activity for the dates specified

Income:

• Median Household Income (2022): $43,783
• Per capita income (2022): $27,414

Tax:

• County Property Tax Rate: 1.18% of a property’s assessed fair market value (2023)
• Combined State and County Sales Tax Rate: 7.5% (2023)

Cost of Living:

• 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): 4% Lower
• Cost of healthcare compared to the US national average (2023): 6% Lower
• Cost of utilities compared to the US national average (2023): 16% Lower
• Cost of transportation compared to the US national average (2023): 4% Higher

Political Affiliation based on the 2024 Election results ( Alachua County ):

• Democrat – 59.42%
• Republican – 38.56%
• Other – 2%

Average low and high temperature: Low – 15 degrees celsius, 26.4 degrees celsius

Largest 3 employers: University of Florida, UF Health Shands, and Alachua County Public Schools

School ratings: Gainesville has a variety of schools with different ratings, ranging from average to excellent

Coastal: No

Fun facts: Gainesville is known as the “swamp” and is home to a variety of natural springs, the largest student-run pep rally in the world (Gator Growl), and the birthplace of rock musician Tom Petty.

• Amenities/attractions in the city: University of Florida, Florida Museum of Natural History, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, and more

Location and Amenities:

 

Highways:

• I-75: The main highway running through Gainesville.
• Approximate distance: Varies depending on your location within Gainesville.

Airports:

• Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV): The nearest airport to Gainesville.
• Approximate distance: About 5 miles (8 km) from the city center.
• Approximate travel time: Around 15-20 minutes.

Universities and Colleges:

• University of Florida (UF): Located in Gainesville.
• Santa Fe College: Also located in Gainesville.
• Both are centrally located within the city.

Hospitals:

• UF Health Shands Hospital: Located in Gainesville.
• North Florida Regional Medical Center: Located in Gainesville.
• Both are centrally located within the city.

Shopping Malls:

• The Oaks Mall: A major shopping mall in Gainesville.
• Approximate distance: Varies depending on your location within Gainesville.

Major Cities:

• Jacksonville, Florida: Approximate distance is about 85 miles (137 km)
• Tampa, Florida: Approximate distance is about 130 miles (209 km) southwest.
• Orlando, Florida: Approximate distance is about 120 miles (193 km) southeast.

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 under 30 Days are considered short term rentals in the city of Gainesville
• As per the information provided in August, 2023, the city of Gainesville does not regulate short term rentals. However, the City Attorney’s Office is reviewing the ordinance for compliance with changing state statutes.

For information visit website below:

• Alachuacounty.us or gainesvillefl.gov or contact planning@gainesvillefl .gov