Hello From

Fort Pierce!

 

 

“The Sunrise City”

Anna Maria Island

Fort Pierce

 A City in and the County Seat of St. Lucie County, Florida

 

Fort Pierce, known as “The Sunrise City,” is a charming coastal town on Florida’s Treasure Coast that blends rich history with natural beauty. Located along the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, Fort Pierce offers a relaxed, Old Florida atmosphere with scenic beaches, a revitalized historic downtown, and a thriving arts and cultural scene. Visitors and residents enjoy fishing, boating, and exploring attractions like the National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum and the Fort Pierce Inlet State Park. With its warm community spirit and authentic coastal vibe, Fort Pierce captures the essence of laid-back Florida living.

Fort Pierce, Florida

Fort Pierce, Florida

Photo by dosecreative via Canva

Location & Size

Fort Pierce is located in St. Lucie County on Florida’s central east coast, about midway between Orlando and Miami. It sits along the Indian River Lagoon, directly across from Hutchinson Island and the Atlantic Ocean.

The city is approximately 29 square miles.

Founded

Fort Pierce traces its origins back to 1838, when it was established as a U.S. Army fort during the Second Seminole War. The fort was named after Lt. Colonel Benjamin Kendrick Pierce, the brother of future U.S. President Franklin Pierce. It was built along the Indian River to serve as a strategic military outpost against the Seminole people and was abandoned after the war ended in 1842.

After the military left, settlers were drawn to the area for its fertile land, fishing, and access to the water. By the late 1800s, Fort Pierce had grown into a small trading post and fishing village. The arrival of the Florida East Coast Railway in the early 1900s spurred development, transforming the once-remote settlement into a bustling coastal community. Fort Pierce was officially incorporated as a city in 1901, laying the foundation for the vibrant and historic waterfront town it is today.

FORT PIERCE WEATHER

Population

As of 2025, Fort Pierce has an estimated population of around 49,000 residents.

Known For

  • Historic downtown waterfront and farmers’ market

  • The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum

  • Beautiful beaches and fishing along the Indian River Lagoon

  • Fort Pierce Inlet State Park and Jetty Park

  • Its authentic “Old Florida” charm and slower pace of life

Cost of living

  • Median household income: around $51,000

  • Median home price (2025): about $325,000

  • Average rent: around $1,800 per month for a 2-bedroom apartment

 

 

Things to do

  • Stroll the Fort Pierce City Marina and waterfront shops

  • Visit the A.E. Backus Museum & Gallery

  • Explore the Manatee Observation and Education Center

  • Enjoy fishing, kayaking, or surfing along the coast

  • Attend local events like the Friday Fest or Sunrise Theatre performances

Fun Facts

  • Fort Pierce is nicknamed “The Sunrise City,” a counterpart to San Francisco’s “Sunset City” (its sister city).

  • The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum is located on the original training grounds for Navy Frogmen during World War II.

  • The nearby Indian River Lagoon is one of the most biodiverse estuaries in North America.

Nearby Cities

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