You might think you’ve unearthed the gems of Florida, with its well-documented basking beaches and Mickey Mouse metropolis. But beyond the tourist-thronged cities and the theme park thrills, there’s another side to the Sunshine State, where life simmers at a more leisurely pace.
One such haven is Hernando County, an oasis of Old Florida charm that’s less about overhyped razzle-dazzle and more about authentic community living. Positioned just north of Tampa Bay, this part of Florida is still largely undiscovered, even by many Sunshine State residents. For the curious and the savvy traveler, and anyone dreaming of laid-back Floridan living, Hernando County is a revelation—a collection of towns where nature, history, and genuine Floridian hospitality intertwine.
Here’s a local’s lowdown on the top 10 cities in Hernando County that are redefining Florida living.
Best Cities In and Near Hernando County, FL
Brooksville – The Heart of Hernando
A Community Steeped in Tradition
Brooksville stands as the county’s centerpiece, a city where history lives and breathes. Oak trees draped in Spanish moss line the streets, while antebellum homes, and historic landmarks like the May-Stringer House, speak volumes about the city’s past. This is where equestrians find their haven, crisscrossing with horse-drawn carriages and riders clad in classic cowboy hats.
The Pride of Paranormal Enthusiasts
For paranormal enthusiasts, the Brooksville Ghost Walking Tours are a must. These guided tours take you to the heart of Brooksville’s spooky history, sharing eerie tales of restless spirits and unsolved mysteries. More grounded attractions include the charming boutique stores, and fresh country markets that dot the downtown area, where the focus is on community and the charm of a bygone era.
Ideal for Heritage Lovers and Equine Enthusiasts
Retirees will love Brooksville’s nod to history and the more serene pace, while equine enthusiasts find themselves at home with the numerous stables and greenways that grid the landscape.
Spring Hill – The Up-and-Comer with Springs in its Step
From Hamlets to a Hopping Community
Spring Hill has the most vivid narrative of all the cities in Hernando. Once a hamlet, it burgeoned into a booming, planned community in the 1960s. Now a sprawling urban landscape, the city is home to a diverse community, blending the old and new Florida cultures seamlessly.
Family-Friendly Fun at Weeki Wachee
This city is perfect for growing families, predominantly because of its proximity to the legendary Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. The park promises a day of natural wonder and entertainment, with its mermaid shows and clear blue, spring-fed waters—a place where the timeless magic of Floridan springs is showcased.
Ideal for Growing Families
Families looking to grow roots are well-suited for Spring Hill, with its family-focused amenities, good schools, and a varied range of housing options to suit every lifestyle.
Weeki Wachee – The Mermaid’s Retreat
Where the Real Mermaids Reside
Weeki Wachee is synonymous with its enchanting state park, where the ‘mermaids’ of Florida capture the imagination of those who’ve visited since 1947. They perform their aquatic ballet in a theater that’s a part of the springs themselves, a unique setting that combines marine fantasy with a true-blue Florida natural setting.
The Paddler’s Paradise
Weeki Wachee is a dream destination for paddlers, thanks to the Weeki Wachee River, a pristine waterway that winds through a cypress-lined, freshwater oasis. The spring-fed river guarantees crystal-clear paddling year-round, and there’s nothing quite like the serenity of those waters.
Ideal for Nature Enthusiasts
Nature lovers, especially those with a penchant for the unusual, will find Weeki Wachee an ideal location, with its unparalleled springs and river ecosystem.
Hernando Beach – A Nautical Nook
Living the Salt Life
Hernando Beach is a gateway to some of Florida’s best offshore fishing, making it a beacon for boating and angling enthusiasts. Internationally famed for its accessibility to the Gulf of Mexico, this is where the ‘salt life’ is more than a hashtag—it’s a daily reality.
A Charming, Waterfront Community
Despite its international fame, Hernando Beach retains its small-town, waterfront charm. Residents here live with their boats almost as an extension of their homes, and the city’s collection of canals and lagoons plays a part in the daily routine, whether you own a skiff or a yacht.
Ideal for Boating and Fishing Buffs
Hernando Beach is an idyllic choice for those who want to live by the water or have a beating heart for the thrill of the sea.
Masaryktown – The Cultural Crossroads
A Strong Immigrant Legacy
Masaryktown is a testament to the diverse tapestry of people that have woven Florida’s community fabric. Named after the first president of Czechoslovakia, the impact of Czech immigrants is still evident in the town’s architecture and the annual Czech festival, which brings thousands to celebrate their heritage.
A Hidden Community with a Lively Soul
Though small, Masaryktown has a lively soul. The Kass Circle area is prized for its eclectic mix of shops and restaurants serving traditional Czech delicacies, making it a must-visit for those looking to sample the international flavor just minutes from Hernando Beach.
Ideal for International Interests
Masaryktown appeals to those with an international palate, and an interest in diverse cultures, with a yearning for a tight-knit community.
Istachatta – The Quiet Riverbanks
A Riverside Hamlet
Istachatta is as bucolic as it gets, a hamlet on the banks of the Withlacoochee River where nature and nurture take on a dual meaning. The lush forests echo with the sounds of wildlife, and the Withlacoochee State Trail, a 46-mile bike path, offers an unmatched opportunity to soak in the solitude of Florida’s backcountry.
The Retreat for Solitude Seekers
Ideal for retirees and solace seekers, Istachatta’s quietude is broken only by the chirps of birds and the rustle of leaves, a far cry from the maddening crowd of city life.
Ideal for Solace Seekers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Those with a love for the outdoors, and a penchant for mindfulness, will find Istachatta to be the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of modern living.
High Point – The Golfing Greenery
A Golfer’s Dream Come True
High Point is a tranquil, deed-restricted, 55+ community built around the High Point Golf Course. This is golfing greenery at its most serene, with numerous direct golf access homes to choose from.
A Community Forward in Retirement Living
High Point takes retirement living seriously, offering a community center, tennis courts, and a sense of security in a unique, community-first environment.
Ideal for the Golfing Community and Active Seniors
Retirees looking to tee off their golden years with a game of golf every day will find High Point to be a haven for the 55+ crowd.
Timber Pines – Nestled in Nature
Retirement Community in a Natural Oasis
Timber Pines is a large, 55+ community in Spring Hill that’s carved into a natural oasis. With its focus on nature and a backdrop of oaks and pines, this is resort-style living at its most verdant.
A Community that Cares
More than a place to reside, Timber Pines prides itself on being a community that cares, with its members taking part in countless clubs and activities. The comprehensive list of amenities includes several golf courses, making it a haven for swinging seniors.
Ideal for those Seeking Resort-Style Retirement Living
For retirees seeking a resort-style living immersed in nature, with a peer group who values the same, Timber Pines offers an all-inclusive experience.
Rolling Acres – The Rustic Suburb
A Rustic Retreat in Suburbia
Rolling Acres is a suburban community with a rustic twist, offering residents a slice of quiet living without straying too far from the amenities of Spring Hill.
Space for Nature and Neighborhood
The neighborhood’s larger lot sizes give a feel of space and community, with friendly neighbors and a relaxed atmosphere that’s quintessentially Floridian.
Ideal for Quiet Suburban Living
Singles, couples, and small families looking for the comforts of suburbia but not willing to compromise on nature’s space will find Rolling Acres an attractive option.
Wiscon – The Walker’s Wonderland
A Shining Example of New Urbanism
Wiscon is a shining example of new urbanism, where sidewalks are as wide as the driveways, and gathering spaces are integral to the community culture. Designed for walkability, residents enjoy a friendly and safe neighborhood where walking isn’t just an option—it’s a way of life.
A Community for the Health-Conscious
Ideal for families and seniors alike, Wiscon’s focus on health and community makes it an invigorating option for those who value an active lifestyle and close-knit neighbors.
Ideal for Health-Focused and Community-Oriented Living
People who value their health and community bonds will find Wiscon an appealing spot, with its emphasis on an active lifestyle and social interactions.
Each of these cities tells a unique story of Hernando County, where the promise of a weathered-down reminder of the Florida of yesteryear is sustainably balanced with modern living conveniences. Whether you’re savoring the solitude and chirrups of nature in Istachatta, reveling in the resort-style living of Timber Pines, or weaving between manatees while kayaking Weeki Wachee’s translucent waters, one thing is clear—Hernando County has something for everyone. It’s Florida, undiluted, and without the queue. Come see what the locals have known for years—sometimes, the best Florida experiences are the ones that aren’t in the brochures.
FAQ: Moving to Hernando County, FL
Is Hernando County, FL a good place for families?
Absolutely! With its variety of parks, recreational activities, and family-friendly communities, Hernando County offers a pleasant environment for raising a family. The county also boasts several good schools, both public and private, catering to the educational needs of young residents.
What kind of job opportunities are available in Hernando County?
Hernando County hosts a diverse range of job opportunities, primarily in healthcare, retail, and education, but also in small and medium-sized manufacturing and services. The proximity to larger cities like Tampa also expands employment options for residents willing to commute.
How’s the weather in Hernando County, FL?
Expect a subtropical climate with plenty of sunshine year-round. Summers are hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms, while winters are mild and drier. It’s the perfect weather for outdoor enthusiasts and those who love the warmth!
Is Hernando County, FL prone to natural disasters including sinkholes?
Yes, like much of Florida, Hernando County can be prone to natural disasters, including hurricanes and sinkholes. The county is part of Florida’s “Nature Coast,” where the limestone substrate can lead to sinkhole formation. Residents are advised to look into comprehensive insurance policies that cover such natural occurrences.
What are the public transportation options in Hernando County?
Hernando County offers several public transportation options, including the Hernando County Transit Department’s “TheBus” service, providing fixed-route bus services throughout the county. For those looking to travel further afield, connections to larger urban centers are also available.
Can I bring my pet when moving to Hernando County?
Yes, Hernando County is pet-friendly, with various accommodations for pet owners, including parks and recreational areas. However, it’s essential to check specific community regulations and comply with county pet registration requirements.
What are the healthcare facilities like in Hernando County?
The county is well-served by numerous healthcare facilities, including hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialist clinics, ensuring residents have access to quality medical care.
Are there any higher education institutions in Hernando County?
While Hernando County is more known for its primary and secondary education institutions, it does offer access to higher education through satellite campuses and close proximity to colleges and universities in neighboring areas.
What recreational activities can I enjoy in Hernando County?
From bird watching and hiking in the Weeki Wachee Preserve to enjoying beach days at Pine Island and golfing at one of many courses, Hernando County offers a range of activities for all ages and interests. Nature lovers, sports enthusiasts, and families will all find something to enjoy.
Helpful Tip: Florida is known to be prone to sinkhole issues. Check the Hernando County sinkhole map for more details
Conclusion: Is Hernando County, A Good Place to Live in?
If you’re on the hunt for a place where the sun kisses your skin just right, where you can talk to manatees as if they were your neighbors, and where the vibes oscillate between chill suburban mornings and adventurous nature-filled afternoons, then Hernando County, FL, might just be your next home sweet home.
This slice of Floridian paradise marries affordability with a rich tapestry of recreational activities, a close-knit community spirit, and a climate that makes summer lovers weep with joy. Whether you’re a family looking to lay down roots in a nurturing environment, a retiree in search of serene landscapes with a side of golf, or just someone craving a life where nature and urban conveniences dance a beautiful tango, Hernando County rolls out the welcome mat with a cheeky grin saying, “Where’ve you been?” Informative yet irresistibly inviting, it’s clear this county isn’t just a good place to live; it’s a lifestyle choice for those in the know.