Okeechobee is a city located in Okeechobee County, Florida, United States. It is situated in the southern part of the state, approximately 40 miles (64 kilometers) west of the Atlantic Ocean. The city is named after Lake Okeechobee, which is the largest freshwater lake in the state and one of the largest in the United States.

Lake Okeechobee, often referred to as the “Big O,” covers an area of approximately 730 square miles (1,900 square kilometers) and is known for its exceptional bass fishing. It attracts numerous anglers and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year. The lake also plays a vital role in the region’s ecosystem, serving as a water supply for agricultural irrigation and providing habitat for various wildlife species.

Okeechobee has a population of around 5,600 residents (as of 2020) and offers a small-town atmosphere with a close-knit community. The city serves as the county seat of Okeechobee County and provides essential services, including government offices, schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational amenities.

The city’s economy is diverse, with agriculture, tourism, and retail sectors playing significant roles. Okeechobee is situated in an agricultural region known for its citrus groves, cattle ranches, and sugarcane fields. Tourism is boosted by the presence of Lake Okeechobee, attracting visitors who enjoy fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. The city also hosts various events and festivals, such as the Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival, which brings in national and international attendees.

In terms of attractions and activities, besides the lake, Okeechobee offers several parks and recreational areas where visitors can enjoy nature trails, picnicking, camping, and
wildlife watching. Some notable parks include the Okeechobee Battlefield Historic State Park, Arnold’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, and Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park.

Overall, Okeechobee is a charming city that combines natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a welcoming community.

Population:

• Population (2023): 5,602
• Median age (2021): 36
• Residents under 18 (2023): 22.5%
• Residents over 65 (2023): 17.7%
• Population by sex (2023): Female – 46.9%, Male – 53.1%
• Homeowners and renters (2022): 60% – Homeowners, 40% – Renters
• Married population (2023): 53%
• Population Change (2010 -2020): Appx. same
• Poverty rate compared to the US national average (2022): 22.2% vs the average of 11.5%

Demographics (2022):

• White Non Hispanic – 54%
• White Hispanic – 22%
• Black Non Hispanic – 15%
• Asian – 3%,
• Other Hispanic – 2%

*Prices shown are based only on activity for the dates specified

Cost of Living:

• Average cost of living compared to the US national average (2023): 7% 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): 3% Lower
• Cost of utilities compared to the US national average (2023): 9% Higher
• Cost of transportation compared to the US national average (2023): Appx. same

Income:

• Median household income (2022): $44,922
• Avg. per capita income (2022): $24,631

Tax:

• County property tax rate: 1.26% of a property’s assessed fair market value (2023)
• Combined state and county sales tax rate: 7.5% (2023)

Political affiliation based on the 2020 election results: Majority voted Republican

Largest employers: N/A

School ratings: N/A

Coastal: No

Average low and high temperature: Low 17 degrees celsius, High 28.4 degrees celsius

Fun facts: The name Okeechobee derives from the Hitchiti Indian words “oki” for water and “chobi” for big.

Location and Amenities:

 

Highways:

• Interstate 95 (I-95): Approximately 67 miles east of Okeechobee, which is about a 1.5-hour drive.
• Florida’s Turnpike: Approximately 30 miles west of Okeechobee, which is about a 30-40 minute drive.
• U.S. Route 441: Runs through Okeechobee.

International Airports:

• Palm Beach International Airport (PBI): Approximately 90 miles east of Okeechobee, which is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive, depending on traffic.
• Orlando International Airport (MCO): Approximately 120 miles north of Okeechobee, which is about a 2 to 2.5-hour drive, depending on traffic.

Universities and Colleges:

• Indian River State College (Main Campus): Approximately 30 miles east of Okeechobee, which is about a 30-40 minute drive.
• Florida Atlantic University (Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute): Approximately 65 miles east of Okeechobee, which is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive.
• Florida Gulf Coast University: Approximately 100 miles southwest of Okeechobee, which is about a 2 to 2.5-hour drive.

Hospitals:

• Raulerson Hospital (in Okeechobee): Located in the city.
• Lawnwood Regional Medical Center (Fort Pierce): Approximately 40 miles southeast of Okeechobee, which is about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive.

Shopping Malls:

• Treasure Coast Square (Jensen Beach): Approximately 45 miles east of Okeechobee, which is about a 1-hour drive.
• Indian River Mall (Vero Beach): Approximately 35 miles east of Okeechobee, which is about a 40-50 minute drive.

Major Cities:

• West Palm Beach, Florida: Approximately 70 miles east of Okeechobee, which is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive.
• Orlando, Florida: Approximately 120 miles north of Okeechobee, which is about a 2 to 2.5-hour drive.
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Approximately 100 miles southeast of Okeechobee, which is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive.

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:

• Okeechobee is short term rental friendly. Please visit the website below for contact information

For information visit Co.okeechobee.fl.us