Are you looking for a liberal-leaning city to call home in the Sunshine State? If so, you’re in luck! In this blog post, we’ll be going over the top 11 most liberal cities in Florida. From iconic vacation destinations to university towns, Florida has plenty of places that have been found to lean heavily to the left. Keep reading to find out which cities made the list and why they are considered so liberal.
1) Gainesville
Gainesville, Florida is the most liberal city in the state and home to the University of Florida. Located in North Central Florida, Gainesville has a population of around 131,000 people. It is known for its diverse culture and vibrant nightlife.
Gainesville is considered a haven for progressive thinkers and activists, with many residents engaging in politics and civil rights movements. In addition to its active social justice community, Gainesville is also home to an impressive number of public art projects and festivals, including Artwalk Gainesville.
The city also has an array of restaurants and entertainment venues, ranging from small coffee shops to lively bars and music venues. The downtown area is home to the Bo Diddley Community Plaza, which hosts weekly free concerts throughout the summer.
Gainesville is a great place for students, young professionals, and families alike. It’s no wonder that it’s often recognized as one of the best places to live in Florida!
2) St. Petersburg
The city of St. Petersburg is one of the most liberal cities in Florida. Located on the Gulf Coast and home to an estimated population of 259,000 people, St. Petersburg is known for its diverse culture, vibrant nightlife, and stunning waterfront views. As a city, St. Petersburg has embraced progressive values, including promoting renewable energy, LGBTQ+ rights, and protecting the environment. The city is also home to numerous art galleries, festivals, and events that are open to all, making it a great destination for those looking to explore different cultures. From the popular Sunken Gardens to the charming St. Petersburg Museum of Fine Arts, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re a fan of craft beer or classical music, St. Petersburg has something for everyone to enjoy.
3) Orlando
Located in central Florida, Orlando is the fifth-largest city in the state and home to nearly 270,000 people. The city is one of the most liberal cities in Florida, with over 54% of its population registered as Democrats. This liberal spirit is reflected in its local politics, with several progressive ordinances recently enacted by the city council. Orlando is known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community, with a range of activities and events dedicated to inclusion and acceptance. It is also home to numerous well-respected higher education institutions, including the University of Central Florida and Rollins College. From its numerous theme parks to its thriving restaurant and nightlife scene, Orlando has something for everyone.
4) Tampa
Tampa is the third most liberal city in Florida, with a large population of progressive-minded individuals and an eclectic array of cultural attractions. Located on the west coast of the Sunshine State, Tampa has a diverse population, vibrant art and music scene, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the state.
The city is known for its strong commitment to social justice and progressive policies, such as its LGBTQ-friendly ordinance and the innovative Public Housing Mobility Program which gives residents the opportunity to move to higher-opportunity neighborhoods. Tampa is also home to a number of organizations dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion, such as the International Institute of Tampa and the Urban League of Greater Tampa Bay.
In addition to its commitment to social justice and progressive values, Tampa is a great destination for visitors looking for fun activities. The city offers a wide range of attractions, including Busch Gardens Tampa, the Tampa Bay History Center, and the Lowry Park Zoo. It also hosts numerous annual events like the Gasparilla Pirate Festival and the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade. Whether you’re looking for a unique cultural experience or just want to relax on one of its many beaches, Tampa is sure to have something that suits your needs.
5) Tallahassee
Tallahassee is the capital of Florida and the state’s political center, making it one of the most liberal cities in the state. It is home to two major universities, Florida State University and Florida A&M University, which draw a diverse student population with more progressive views. It also boasts a vibrant arts scene, diverse restaurants, and plenty of events that are open to all.
Politically, the city leans heavily toward the Democratic party. In the 2016 presidential election, Tallahassee voted overwhelmingly for Hillary Clinton, and in the 2018 midterm elections, Democrats held all three county-level offices and won a majority of seats on the City Commission.
The Tallahassee community is very accepting of diversity and LGBT rights. The city has implemented gender-neutral bathrooms in its public buildings and hosts several annual pride events. Additionally, Tallahassee has passed anti-discrimination laws that protect the LGBT community from discrimination.
Tallahassee is also a leader in environmental protection. It was the first Florida city to sign the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy, committing to reduce its carbon footprint by increasing renewable energy use and transitioning away from fossil fuels. The city is also making an effort to reduce waste, introducing several recycling initiatives.
6) Miami
Miami is the fifth largest city in Florida and the second most populous city in the US state of Florida. It is known for its beautiful beaches, art deco architecture, unique Cuban culture, and thriving nightlife. In recent years, Miami has become an increasingly liberal-leaning city.
In 2020, Miami voters cast ballots for Joe Biden in overwhelming numbers and helped to turn Florida blue for the first time in almost 30 years. As a result, Miami is considered one of the most liberal cities in the state. It has become a hotbed for progressive causes, with a number of organizations dedicated to protecting civil rights and promoting social justice.
The city is also home to several top universities including the University of Miami, Florida International University, and Nova Southeastern University. These schools have attracted many students from around the country who are looking to learn in a more progressive environment.
Miami also boasts an array of cultural attractions including world-class museums, art galleries, performing arts venues, and music festivals. There are also plenty of outdoor activities, from kayaking and paddleboarding to swimming and fishing.
For those looking to experience a more open-minded atmosphere, Miami is an ideal destination. With its vibrant culture and strong progressive values, this city is sure to make a lasting impression.
7) Fort Lauderdale
Located in Broward County, Fort Lauderdale is one of the most liberal cities in Florida. It has long been known for its vibrant culture, which attracts visitors and residents alike. The city has a population of around 180,000 people, with a median age of 43.9 years old.
Fort Lauderdale is home to a number of art galleries and museums, as well as various festivals throughout the year. The city also hosts one of the largest LGBTQ+ pride parades in Florida. This is thanks to its active and progressive community who fight for social justice and equal rights for all.
The city has a thriving economy, with a large number of international businesses located there. The port of Fort Lauderdale is one of the busiest ports in the US, making it an important gateway for trade and transport. The average salary in the city is higher than the state average, and the cost of living is more expensive than other Florida cities.
Fort Lauderdale is considered a safe city to live in, as crime rates are lower than the national average. The city also boasts some excellent schools, both public and private.
All in all, Fort Lauderdale is a great place to live or visit if you’re looking for a progressive and diverse city with plenty to do.
8) West Palm Beach
West Palm Beach, located in southeastern Florida on the Atlantic Coast, is home to over 100,000 people and is one of the most liberal cities in the state. It is a diverse city, with a large population of African-Americans and other minority groups. The city has a thriving arts and culture scene and is known for its progressive attitude towards social issues.
West Palm Beach is considered a safe city, with a low crime rate and excellent public schools. It has one of the highest-rated school districts in the state and is also home to several colleges and universities, including Palm Beach Atlantic University, Keiser University and South University.
The city is filled with plenty of activities and attractions, such as CityPlace and the Norton Museum of Art. West Palm Beach is also popular for its beaches, especially Palm Beach and South Beach. Residents also enjoy many outdoor activities, such as biking and kayaking on the intracoastal waterway.
West Palm Beach is an ideal place for people who value diversity and progressive social issues. It is a great place to live for those looking for an urban lifestyle that is still close to nature.
9) Boca Raton
Boca Raton is located in Palm Beach County and is one of the most liberal cities in Florida. The city is home to a population of more than 100,000 people and is known for its upscale lifestyle and shopping options. In terms of politics, Boca Raton leans heavily to the left with a majority of voters choosing to support Democrats in most elections. This trend has been consistent for decades and is unlikely to change anytime soon. While Boca Raton may not be as famously liberal as other cities in the state, its progressive values and policies have earned it a reputation as a safe and welcoming place for those of all political persuasions.
10) Naples
Naples is a charming city located in Collier County, Florida. It is known for its wealth and upscale lifestyle, but it also has a strong liberal bent. The city has an influential LGBT community, as well as numerous progressive organizations that work on social justice issues such as poverty and immigration reform. In terms of voting, Naples voted overwhelmingly Democratic in the 2016 presidential election. Additionally, in 2018, the city elected the state’s first openly lesbian mayor, Teresa Heitmann. The Naples City Council also passed a resolution in 2015 affirming its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The city has also been proactive in pushing for progressive policies on climate change and protecting the environment. For all of these reasons, Naples is one of the most liberal cities in Florida.
11) Key West
Key West, located in Monroe County at the southern tip of Florida, is known for its relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty. This tiny island city is a popular vacation spot, and it has a reputation for being one of the most liberal cities in the state. It is home to a diverse population with many different backgrounds, religions, and lifestyles.
The city of Key West is full of unique attractions and activities. There are many historic sites to explore, such as Fort Zachary Taylor and the Ernest Hemingway House. Visitors can take boat tours or explore the local coral reefs, go kayaking or take a sunset cruise. For nature lovers, Key West offers a wide range of wildlife reserves, mangroves and wetlands to explore.
The culture of Key West is accepting and inclusive, making it an ideal destination for people who are looking for a place to be themselves without fear of judgment. There are numerous LGBT-friendly venues in Key West, and the city regularly celebrates events like Pridefest. In addition to the city’s annual events, many bars, restaurants, and other establishments are LGBT-friendly year round.
Overall, Key West is an amazing destination for people who want to relax and experience a more laid back atmosphere. With its vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and welcoming atmosphere, Key West is one of the most liberal cities in Florida.
Final Words
It’s no secret that Florida is a largely conservative state. However, there are still several cities that lean more to the liberal side of things. From Gainesville and St. Petersburg to Orlando and Tampa, these cities are home to some of the most progressive and forward-thinking minds in the Sunshine State. And even in cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Naples, and Key West, the liberal influence can still be felt in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking to get involved in local politics or simply to find a community that shares your values, these cities are great places to start. So if you’re a Floridian looking for a more progressive atmosphere, be sure to check out one of the top 11 most liberal cities in Florida!
F&Q
Q: Why is Florida considered one of the most liberal states?
A: Florida has a diverse population and a variety of cities that are open to progressive ideas. The state is home to many prominent universities, and the people in these cities tend to be more open-minded and welcoming towards new ideas.
Q: What makes a city “liberal”?
A: Liberal cities are generally open-minded and tolerant of other cultures, beliefs, and lifestyles. They often have progressive laws and policies in place, and many residents support liberal candidates for public office.
Q: Are the cities on this list all large cities?
A: No. This list includes both small and large cities from across the state, from Gainesville to Key West.
Q: Is Florida really as liberal as it seems?
A: Yes. In recent years, Florida has become increasingly progressive and more open-minded about social issues. Many major cities in the state are known for their liberal attitudes, making it one of the most liberal states in the country.
