Hello From
Sebastian!
“Friendly people and six old grouches”
Sebastian
A City in Indian River County, Florida
Sebastian is a scenic waterfront city nestled on Florida’s east coast in Indian River County, situated between the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its laid-back pace, outdoor lifestyle, and abundant natural beauty, Sebastian offers a refreshing alternative to larger tourist-driven coastal towns. It’s surrounded by protected habitats, quiet neighborhoods, and a strong connection to its “Old Florida” roots.
Sebastian Inlet
Photo by dosecreative via Canva
Location & Size
Sebastian is located in central east Florida, on the Treasure Coast, approximately midway between Melbourne and Vero Beach.
The city covers roughly 13.5 square miles of land.
Founded
Sebastian, Florida traces its origins to the 1870s, when settlers were drawn to the area’s fertile land and abundant fishing opportunities along the Indian River Lagoon. Early pioneers such as David Peter Gibson and Thomas New established homesteads and helped create a small but thriving riverside community originally known as “New Haven.” By 1882, the settlement was renamed Sebastian, likely after Saint Sebastian, and began to grow as a fishing village and citrus shipping hub.
The town officially incorporated in 1924, marking its transition from a quiet fishing settlement to an organized municipality. Its proximity to the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge—established in 1903 as the first refuge in the United States—cemented Sebastian’s reputation as a community deeply connected to nature and conservation. Over time, Sebastian evolved into a peaceful coastal city celebrated for its natural beauty, fishing heritage, and small-town Florida charm.
Population
As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Sebastian had a population of 25,054. More recent estimates suggest a modest increase toward 26,800, making it the most populous city in Indian River County.
Known For
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The nearby Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge—the first national wildlife refuge in the U.S. Making “Home of Pelican Island” one of 2 unoffical city motto’s.
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Pristine nature and lightly trafficked beaches, including Sebastian Inlet State Park renowned for fishing and surfing.
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The Indian River Lagoon and lagoon-side boating, kayaking, and bird-watching opportunities.
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A quieter coastal lifestyle, with strong environmental and preservation values built in.
Cost of living
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Median Household Income: $55,000 (2020 figure)
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Median Home Value: $331,700 (2023 estimate)
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Median Gross Rent: $1,551/month (2023 estimate)
Things to do
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Visit the lighthouse and nature trails at Pelican Island.
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Spend time fishing or surfing at Sebastian Inlet State Park.
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Paddle or boat along the Indian River Lagoon and explore mangroves and wildlife.
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Stroll downtown Sebastian for art galleries, waterfront dining, and relaxed shopping.
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Enjoy beach time and sunset views along the quieter shoreline.
Fun Facts
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Sebastian is dubbed a “Millennium City” and a “Tree City USA” due to its environmental credentials.
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The city is less tourist-focused and more resident-friendly than many Florida beach towns—many residents say they appreciate that quiet, local feel.
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Despite its small size, Sebastian boasts a high home-ownership rate (~83.5%) compared with the national average.
- One of the cities unofficial mottos, “Friendly people and six old grouches”, refers to the six original City Council members from its 1924 incorporation, though its exact origin is a local mystery.
