Gainesville, FL
Gainesville is a mid-sized city in north-central Florida, known for being the home of the University of Florida, one of the largest and most prestigious universities in the United States. With a population of around 133,000 residents, Gainesville is also a hub for healthcare, biotechnology, and other industries, with major employers including UF Health, North Florida Regional Medical Center, and several biotech companies. The city boasts a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and nightlife options, as well as numerous parks and outdoor recreational opportunities, such as the Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park and the Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park. Gainesville also has a strong commitment to sustainability and environmentalism, with initiatives focused on conservation, alternative transportation, and renewable energy.
STATISTICS
INDICATORS
Region
South
Population (2020)
139,929
The chart below displays this city's performance across all indicators vs. averages for the 25 cities
% Non-White Population
37.4
Median Income (2020)
$38,028
Average Home Value (2022)
$285,603
Average Annual Cost of Living
$20,915
Housing, transportation and energy costs as a percent of median income
Averages
City Data
CHALLENGES
Poverty rates in Gainesville are higher than the national average, which has led to challenges with affordable housing and high rates of homelessness.
Crime rates in Gainesville are also higher than the national average, with particular challenges related to property crime and drug-related offenses.
Like many college towns, the population of Gainesville is relatively young, which has led to challenges with community engagement and retaining residents after they graduate.
Gainesville is located in a part of Florida that is vulnerable to natural disasters, including hurricanes and flooding.
The city has struggled to diversify its economy beyond healthcare and education, which has led to challenges with attracting and retaining businesses.
BRIGHT SPOTS
Home to the University of Florida, which is one of the largest and most prestigious universities in the United States.
The city has a vibrant arts scene with multiple theaters, museums, and galleries.
Gainesville is surrounded by natural beauty, including numerous state parks, lakes, and forests.
The city is home to multiple major hospitals and healthcare providers.
Gainesville has a strong commitment to sustainability and is a leader in green initiatives in the state of Florida.