Hello From

Moore Haven!

“Gateway to Lake Okeechobee.”

Moore Haven

A City and the Country Seat of Glades County, Florida

Moore Haven, Florida is a small, tranquil city located on the southwest shore of Lake Okeechobee in Glades County. Known as the “Gateway to Lake Okeechobee,” it offers rich history, scenic views, and direct access to some of Florida’s best freshwater fishing. Founded in the early 20th century, Moore Haven was once dubbed “Little Chicago” for its unexpected early boom. Today, it remains a close-knit community steeped in Old Florida charm, with popular attractions like the Chalo Nitka Festival, the Moore Haven Lock, and nearby airboat tours that showcase the unique Everglades ecosystem. It’s a peaceful destination ideal for nature lovers, anglers, and those seeking a slower pace of life.

Location & Size

Moore Haven is located on the Southwest shoreline of Lake Okeechobee, intersected by the Caloosahatchee River and approximately 1.06 square miles in size.

Founded

Founded in 1915 by James A. Moore, Moore Haven quickly became a commercial hub for the Lake Okeechobee region. The city was incorporated in 1917.

The Hurricane of 1926, also known as the Great Miami Hurricane, brought catastrophic destruction to Moore Haven, Florida, as it passed through the region after devastating South Florida. When the storm crossed Lake Okeechobee, it caused the lake to overflow due to a massive storm surge. Moore Haven, situated on the southwest shore of the lake, was inundated with floodwaters reportedly as high as 12 feet, drowning much of the town.

Tragically, over 100 people in Moore Haven lost their lives, and nearly the entire town was destroyed. The floodwaters lingered for days, making rescue and recovery extremely difficult. This disaster exposed the vulnerability of communities around Lake Okeechobee and led to significant changes in flood control infrastructure, including the construction of the Herbert Hoover Dike to prevent future tragedies.

The 1926 hurricane remains one of the most devastating natural disasters in Moore Haven’s history and played a pivotal role in reshaping water management policy across South Florida.

MOORE HAVEN WEATHER

Population

Approximately 1,722 residents as of 2025.

Known For

Moore Haven Lock and Dam: Moore Haven Lock was designed for preventive measures during hurricanes, floods, and droughts while allowing navigation on the Okeechobee Intracoastal Waterway, a 155-mile passage connecting the Gulf of Mexico with the Atlantic Coast via Lake Okeechobee.
Lake Okeechobee Access: Ideal for boating, fishing, and water-based recreation.
Chalo Nitka Festival: One of Florida’s oldest continuous festivals, celebrating local culture and history.
Historic Downtown: Features the Moore Haven Downtown Historic District, designated in 1995.

Cost of living

Median Household Income: Approximately $35,903 per year.
Median Home Price: Around $212,900 as of May 2025.
Average Rent: Approximately $1,500 per month, offering affordable living options.

Things to do

Outdoor Activities: Fishing, boating, and exploring the Caloosahatchee River and Lake Okeechobee.
Gatorama: A family-friendly attraction featuring alligators and wildlife exhibits.
Airboat Tours: Experience the Everglades ecosystem up close.
Historic Sites: Visit the Glades County Courthouse and the Moore Haven Lock.

Fun Facts

Nickname: Once dubbed “Little Chicago” due to its bustling activity in the early 20th century.
Strategic Location: Situated on U.S. Route 27, providing easy access to both coasts of Florida.
Cultural Heritage: The Chalo Nitka Festival’s name means “Day of the Big Bass” in the Miccosukee language, reflecting the area’s Native American roots.