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Plant City is an incorporated city in Hillsborough County, Florida, United States, approximately midway between Brandon and Lakeland along Interstate 4. It is part of the Tampa Bay area. The population was 39,764 at the 2020 census.

ZIP codes: 33563-33567

Population: 43,046 (2024)

Area codes: 813, 656

Elevation: 128 ft (39 m)

Incorporated (City of Plant City): 1911

Named after: Henry B. Plant

Zip Codes: 33563

Latitude, Longitude: 28.0186° N, 82.1129° W

The Railroad Town That Became a Berry King 🍓

First and foremost, let’s clear up the biggest misconception about Plant City. It was not named for the abundant “plants” grown there. The city’s name is a testament to one of the shrewdest political moves in Florida’s history.

The community was first settled in the mid-19th century under the Native American name “Ichepucksassa.” By the 1880s, it was a struggling village known as Cork. The town’s fortunes changed forever when its leaders learned that railroad magnate Henry B. Plant was extending his South Florida Railroad east from Tampa. In a brilliant act of flattery and persuasion, the community incorporated in 1885 and renamed itself Plant City in his honor. The gambit worked. Plant routed his railroad directly through the newly named city, and the arrival of the train transformed everything.

This new rail connection gave local farmers unprecedented access to northern markets. The area’s unique climate and soil were perfect for growing winter vegetables and, most importantly, strawberries. The railroad allowed farmers to ship their delicate berries across the country, and by the early 20th century, Plant City had become the undisputed “Winter Strawberry Capital of the World,” a title it proudly holds to this day.

More Than Just Strawberries 🏛️

Unlike the vast unincorporated suburbs that surround it, Plant City is one of only three incorporated cities in Hillsborough County (along with Tampa and Temple Terrace). This means it has its own mayor, city commission, and municipal services, which fosters a strong sense of civic identity and pride.

The city’s heritage is beautifully preserved in its charming, historic downtown district. Here you’ll find brick-paved streets, antique shops, local diners, and the iconic Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, fittingly housed in the original 1909 train depot.

In recent decades, Plant City has leveraged its strategic location in the heart of the I-4 Corridor between Tampa and Orlando. This has made it a prime location for major logistics and distribution centers for companies like Amazon, Publix, and O’Reilly Auto Parts, adding a powerful new layer to its economy beyond agriculture.

Plant City by the Numbers 📊

The city’s demographics reflect its blend of historic roots and modern growth.

• Official Designation: Incorporated City
• County: Hillsborough
• Incorporated: 1885
• Named For: Railroad magnate Henry B. Plant.
• Population: Approximately 40,000 residents.
• Area: About 28 square miles.
• Median Age: Roughly 37 years old.
• Racial & Ethnic Composition: A diverse community with deep agricultural roots:
  • White (non-Hispanic): ~48%
  • Hispanic or Latino: ~34%
  • Black or African American: ~13%
• Median Household Income: Approximately $65,000.

Landmarks and Local Favorites 🎡

Plant City is home to several iconic destinations that celebrate its unique culture.

• Florida Strawberry Festival: The single most important event in Plant City. This 11-day extravaganza held every winter draws nearly half a million visitors for its big-name concerts, rides, agricultural exhibits, and, of course, every imaginable strawberry treat.
• Parkesdale Farm Market: A legendary local institution and a required pilgrimage for strawberry lovers. They are world-famous for their incredible strawberry shortcake and fresh strawberry milkshakes.
• Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum: Located in the heart of downtown, this museum is a fantastic tribute to the man and the industry that gave the city its name and its start. It features a viewing platform to watch the 25-30 freight trains that still pass through daily.
• Keel & Curley Winery / Keel Farms: A wonderful example of the area’s modern agricultural scene. What started as a blueberry farm has grown into a major winery, brewery, and cidery, offering tours, tastings, and a full-service restaurant.
• Dinosaur World: A classic Florida roadside attraction right off I-4. This outdoor park features hundreds of life-sized dinosaur replicas in a natural setting, making it a beloved destination for families.