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Ormond Beach!

 

 

“The Birthplace of Speed”

Anna Maria Island

Ormond Beach

 A City in Volusia County, Florida

 

Ormond Beach, Florida, is a scenic coastal city located just north of Daytona Beach along Florida’s Atlantic coast. Known for its rich automotive history, pristine beaches, and charming residential communities, Ormond Beach offers a relaxed yet vibrant lifestyle.  The city is known as the birthplace of speed, as early adopters of motorized cars flocked to its hard-packed beaches for yearlong entertainment, since paved roads were not yet commonplace.

The city combines old Florida charm with modern amenities, making it a popular destination for both visitors and year-round residents. With its blend of history, natural beauty, and recreation, Ormond Beach is often considered a quieter, more refined alternative to its famous neighbor, Daytona.

Ormond Beach, Florida<br />

Ormond Beach, Florida

Photo by Stephen Barnes via Canva

 

Location & Size

Ormond Beach is located in Volusia County, about 10 miles north of Daytona Beach and roughly 60 miles northeast of Orlando.

The city covers approximately 39 square miles, stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Tomoka River.

Founded

Ormond Beach’s history dates back to the late 19th century when settlers were first drawn to the area’s natural beauty along the Halifax River and Atlantic coastline. The city was named after James Ormond, a Scottish sea captain who settled there in the early 1800s after receiving a Spanish land grant. His family established one of the first homesteads in the region, and the area became known as “Ormond.”

In the 1870s, the arrival of wealthy Northern visitors seeking winter retreats transformed the quiet settlement into a resort community. By 1880, Ormond was officially incorporated as a city. The construction of Henry Flagler’s Florida East Coast Railway in the 1890s brought prosperity and accessibility, leading to the development of the grand Ormond Hotel, which attracted industrialists and social elites such as John D. Rockefeller.

At the turn of the 20th century, Ormond Beach became internationally famous as the “Birthplace of Speed” after automobile pioneers began racing along its hard-packed sands. These early races helped shape the region’s identity and laid the groundwork for nearby Daytona Beach’s enduring motorsport legacy.

Today, Ormond Beach honors its rich history as a blend of old Florida charm, Gilded Age elegance, and innovative spirit.

ORMOND BEACH WEATHER

Population

 As of 2025, Ormond Beach has an estimated population of about 44,000 residents.

Known For

  • Being the “Birthplace of Speed” — where early automobile races were held on the beach

  • Beautiful sandy beaches and scenic coastal drives

  • The Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail, known for its lush landscapes and historic sites

  • Affluent neighborhoods and golf communities

  • A mix of nature, history, and seaside charm

Cost of living

  • Median Household Income: Around $65,000

  • Median Home Price: Approximately $420,000

  • Average Rent: About $1,700 per month for a two-bedroom apartment

Ormond Beach offers a moderate cost of living compared to other Florida coastal cities.

Things to do

  • Relax on Ormond Beach’s quiet shoreline

  • Visit The Casements, John D. Rockefeller’s historic winter home

  • Explore Tomoka State Park for kayaking and wildlife viewing

  • Drive the Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail

  • Attend local events like the Ormond Beach Celtic Festival or Gaslight Parade

Fun Facts

  • Early car races on Ormond Beach in the early 1900s earned it the nickname “The Birthplace of Speed.”

  • Industrialist John D. Rockefeller made Ormond Beach his winter residence.

  • The city is part of Florida’s “Fun Coast” region and shares close ties with Daytona’s racing heritage.

  • Ormond Beach has been named one of Florida’s best small beach towns for families and retirees alike.

Nearby Cities

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