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Okeechobee!

 

 

“The Gateway to the Lake”

Anna Maria Island

Okeechobee

A City in and the County Seat of Okeechobee County, Florida

 

Okeechobee, Florida, is a charming small city located on the northern shore of Lake Okeechobee, the largest freshwater lake in the state. Known for its laid-back, rural atmosphere and strong agricultural roots, Okeechobee offers a glimpse into “Old Florida,” where cattle ranching, farming, and outdoor recreation define the local lifestyle. The city  is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and bird watching enthusiasts who come to experience the beauty of the lake and surrounding natural areas.

Okeechobee, Florida<br />

Okeechobee, Florida

Location & Size

Okeechobee sits in central east Florida, about halfway between the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, and is located at the crossroads of U.S. Highway 441 and State Road 70.  It is roughly 90 miles south of Orlando, and about 40 miles west of Port St. Lucie.

It is a small city, covering approximately 4.1 square miles of land.  

Founded

The city of Okeechobee traces its roots back to the late 19th century, when settlers were drawn to the fertile lands surrounding Lake Okeechobee, Florida’s largest freshwater lake. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Seminole and Miccosukee peoples, who named the lake “Okeechobee,” meaning “big water.”

As railroads expanded across Florida in the late 1800s, the region became more accessible to pioneers and cattle ranchers. The development of the Florida East Coast Railway and surrounding agricultural opportunities led to the establishment of small settlements near the lake. Okeechobee began to grow as a trading center for cattle, citrus, and fishing industries, serving as a vital link between the interior of Florida and coastal ports.

The city of Okeechobee was incorporated in 1915 and later became the county seat of Okeechobee County in 1917. In the early 20th century, it played an important role in supporting regional agriculture and lake-based commerce. However, the area faced challenges, including devastating hurricanes in 1926 and 1928, which caused widespread flooding and loss of life around the lake. These events led to major flood-control improvements, including the construction of the Herbert Hoover Dike.

Today, Okeechobee retains its historic small-town charm and remains closely tied to its agricultural and natural heritage, standing as the gateway to Lake Okeechobee and the heart of Florida’s inland lake region.

OKEECHOBEE WEATHER

Population

As of 2025, Okeechobee has around 5,376 residents.

Known For

  • Proximity to Lake Okeechobee, Florida’s largest freshwater lake

  • A center for agriculture, cattle, and fishing activities

  • Outdoor recreation: fishing, boating, wildlife viewing

  • Serving as a gateway for exploring the lake, marshes, and the Kissimmee-Everglades watershed

Cost of living

  • Median household income: ~$40,149 (2020 figure)

  • Median home value (owner-occupied): ~$187,400

  • Average rent (all properties): ~$1,481/month

The cost of living in Okeechobee is slightly below national average, offering more affordability than many Florida cities.

 

 

Things to do

  • Explore Lake Okeechobee by boat or fishing charter

  • Visit nearby nature trails, marshes, and wildlife refuges

  • Attend local fairs, rodeos, and community events

  • Enjoy small-town festivals and lakefront dining

  • Use Okeechobee as a base for exploring central Florida’s rural and natural areas

Fun Facts

  • Okeechobee is the county seat of Okeechobee County, and is its largest city.

  • The city name comes from “Okeechobee,” which in the Miccosukee (or Seminole) language means “big water” (referring to the lake).

  • It lies on the rim of Lake Okeechobee, which is central to Florida’s water system and Everglades restoration discussions.

  • The city has a relatively young median age (mid-30s) compared to many Florida towns.

Nearby Cities

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