Located
within an hour drive of Florida’s urban areas, the
Central region enjoys a natural and relaxing
environment with the benefit of easy access to multiple
metropolitan areas, international airports and deep seaports.
Infrastructure:
Three interstate highways, the Florida Turnpike, four U.S.
highways and twelve state roads traversing through the region
or passing near the region's boundaries provide convenient
access throughout Florida and North America. A wealth of
land is available on which businesses can build structures
to specifically fit their needs and still have room for
future growth. For companies that want existing business
sites, there are established business/industrial parks located
throughout the region.
Industry:
Due to its centralized location, the region is ideal for
manufacturing and product distribution. In addition, businesses
benefit from enhanced incentives as a result of the region’s
designation as an Rural Area of Critical Economic Concern.
Benefits such as free education, training and job placement
for employers, the existence of enterprise zones, and in
some areas, local tax abatements, help businesses keep operating
costs at an attractive level.
Workforce:
Availability and lower costs are attractive features of
South Central Florida's workforce. The region's immediate
population, combined with a fifty-mile radius commuting
workforce, provides businesses a labor market usually identified
with large metropolitan communities.
Quality
of Life:
While retaining the small town atmosphere, the area is within
a short drive to all Florida attractions. From quaint downtowns
to rich heritage, South Central Florida is a place where
your business and family can grow in a great environment.
Combine the
competitive cost of doing business with affordable living,
and business leaders easily recognize that the region encompassing
the six South Central Florida counties, is a smart location
for their bottom line.
South Central Florida: Economic Indicators
Indicator
South Central
Population, 2006 254,018
Labor Force, 2006 107,939
Total Employment, 2006 103,490
Unemployment Rate, 2006 4.1%
Personal Income, 2005 ($Billions) $5.3
Per Capita Personal Income, 2005 $21,220
Number of Foreign-Affiliated Companies, 2007 3
Cost of Living Index, 2006 (U.S. Average=100) n/a
Median Home Price, 2006 n/a
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