Join us on this journey where paradise meets prosperity as we dive into the top ten wealthiest counties in Florida, exploring what sets each of them apart in terms of affluence, unique features, and notable residents.
Richest Counties in Florida
- St. Johns County
- Collier County
- Monroe County
- Seminole County
- Martin County
- Sarasota County
- Palm Beach County
- Broward County
- Sumter County
- Miami-Dade County
1. St. Johns County
Located in northeastern Florida, St. Johns County is the richest county in Florida. Boasting a rich blend of vintage charm and modern prosperity, St. Johns is known for its top-rated schools, family-friendly atmosphere, stunning beaches, and strong economy. The wealthiest city in St. Johns County is Ponte Vedra Beach, where the median household income is over $150,000 and the average home value is over $800,000. Other wealthy cities in St. Johns County include Nocatee, St. Johns, Fruit Cove, and the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine.
2. Collier County
The second wealthiest county in Florida, Collier County is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, upscale communities, and high standard of living. Naples, a city within the county, is famous for its luxurious resorts and top-notch golf courses. TV personality Judge Judy has a home there. Marco Island, another wealthy area in the county, boasts exquisite waterfront properties and luxury estates that attract high-net-worth individuals seeking elite coastal living. With a reputation as one of the most expensive places to live in Florida, Collier County attracts discerning individuals seeking a lavish lifestyle.
3. Monroe County
Monroe County is also one of the richest counties in Florida. Encompassing the Florida Keys, Monroe County is a tropical paradise with a unique culture. Key West, Islamorada, and Marathon islands are sought-after destinations for the well-heeled seeking a tranquil retreat. With its distinctive island culture and high-end real estate options (the median home value is over $1 million), Monroe County stands out as one of the richest areas in Florida. Beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and a laid-back atmosphere entice wealthy residents and over 5 million visitors annually. Adored children’s book author Judy Blume resides in Key West. Ernest Hemingway had a home there for many years that is now a popular tourist attraction and museum honoring the renowned author.
4. Seminole County
Seminole County is another one of the wealthiest counties in Florida. Seminole County in central Florida offers urban amenities and natural beauty. Lake Mary has a median home value of nearly $500,000 and is home to beloved ESPN sports broadcaster and football analyst Lee Corso. Heathrow has a median income of over $100,000.
Seminole County is known for upscale residences, a family-friendly atmosphere, and excellent schools. Seminole County Public Schools is ranked as one of the best school districts in Florida. With its beautiful parks, low crime rate, and growing economy, Seminole County is an attractive destination for wealthy families.
5. Martin County
Located on Florida’s east coast, Martin County provides a serene escape for those seeking a quieter, affluent lifestyle. Its stunning beaches, excellent fishing spots, and luxurious resorts contribute to a high quality of life. The wealthiest city in Martin County is Jupiter Island, where the median household income is over $200,000. Golfer Tiger Woods and singer Celine Dion both have Jupiter Island homes. Other wealthy cities include Hobe Sound, Sewall’s Point, and Stuart. The late actor Burt Reynolds once owned an estate in Martin County.
6. Sarasota County
Sarasota County, located along the Gulf Coast of Florida, caters to those with a taste for refinement through its many cultural events, world-class golf courses, beautiful beaches, and high-end real estate options. Sarasota, the city, is renowned for its arts and theater scene. Siesta Key, with a median household income of over $100,000, offers prime waterfront living. Other wealthy cities in Sarasota County include Longboat Key, Casey Key, and Lido Key. Famed best-selling author Stephen King has a winter residence in Sarasota, and AC/DC’s frontman Brian Johnson has lived in Sarasota since 1995.
7. Palm Beach County
Another one of the richest counties in Florida is Palm Beach County. Located in southeastern Florida, Palm Beach County is known for beautiful beaches, world-class golf courses, and upscale dining. The wealthiest city in the county is Palm Beach, where the median household income is over $160,000. Palm Beach is also the richest city in Florida. Other prosperous cities include Boca Raton, Wellington, and Manalapan. Many retirees and wealthy individuals reside in Palm Beach County, including Food Network star Guy Fieri and radio personality Howard Stern. Former President Donald Trump has his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach. The celebrity who is probably most synonymous with Florida, the late Jimmy Buffet, was a part-time Palm Beach resident for decades until his death in 2023.
8. Broward County
Along Florida’s southeast coast lies Broward County, a bustling urban center with a reputation for upscale living. The wealthiest city is Parkland, where the median household income is over $174,000 – 152.5% more than the national average. Other well-off cities include Fort Lauderdale Beach, Weston, and Cooper City. Broward County offers waterfront living, a thriving arts scene, and countless dining and entertainment options, all wrapped up in suburban charm. NBA legends Shaquille O’Neal and Dwyane Wade, singer Iggy Azalea, and actor Dwayne Johnson have called Broward County home.
9. Sumter County
Sumter County, Florida, is a centrally located county known for its affluence. In 2023, Sumter County experienced $265 million of wealth migration – the adjusted gross income gained from people migrating into the county. With the oldest median age (68.1) of any US county, Sumter County is a retiree’s paradise. The wealthiest city, or census-designated place, is The Villages, a massive retirement community. With its world-class amenities, including golf courses and recreation centers, retirees nationwide flock to this focal point of Sumter County’s prosperity.
10. Miami-Dade County
As one of Florida’s largest and most diverse counties, Miami-Dade offers an exciting blend of cultures and economic vitality with the allure of coastal living. The wealthiest city is Fisher Island, where the median household income is over $250,000. Other wealthy cities include Coral Gables, Key Biscayne, and Indian Creek.
Singers Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, Ricky Martin, Gloria Estefan, and sports legends LeBron James and Tom Brady are just a few of the famous celebrities that live in Miami and its surrounding suburbs.