The State of Florida is located in the southeastern region of the United
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The State of Florida is located in the southeastern region of the United
States of America. Most of the state is a large peninsula with the Gulf of
Mexico on its west and the Atlantic Ocean on its east. It is bordered on
the north by the states of Georgia and Alabama. There are 67 Counties in
Florida, but some reports show only 66 because of Duval County which is
consolidated with the City of Jacksonville, and 379 cities.
As of 2006, Florida's population stands at 18,089,888, with an increase of
2,107,510 or over at least 13% from 2000īs figures. Florida is the nation's
third-fastest-growing state due to its high job growth, mild climate, and
relatively low cost of living. As Florida experiences a major population
boom, most of its rural areas and cities are also experiencing changes that are
helping to compensate for the population increase.
As of 2000, 76.91 percent of Florida residents age 5 and older speak only
English at home, while 16.46 percent speak Spanish. Florida's climate
makes it a popular state for immigrants. Florida's public education system
identifies over 200 first languages other than English, to be spoken in the homes
of their students.
Tourism makes up the largest sector of the state economy. Warm weather and
hundreds of miles of beaches attract about 60 million visitors to the
state every year. Amusement parks, especially in the Orlando and Miami
area, make up a significant portion of tourism. The Florida Keys and
Daytona Beach are also tourism centers. The second largest industry is
agriculture. Citrus fruit, especially oranges, are a major part of the
economy, and Florida produces by far the majority of citrus fruit grown in
the U.S.
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