Polk County continues to be a significant driver of Florida’s economy, emerging as a dynamic hub of opportunity and an ideal location for both new and established businesses looking to expand. While the county’s economy is still anchored on traditional industries such as citrus, cattle, agriculture and mining – industries that have been instrumental in our development – Polk has successfully diversified its economic base, positioning ourselves for long-term growth.
Polk County offers a variety of strategic advantages for business looking to thrive, including:
- Central Location: Positioned at the heart of the I-4 corridor, Polk County provides businesses with access to over 11 million people within a 100-mile radius. This prime location offers proximity to major markets across the state within a day’s drive, making it an ideal base for companies seeking to reach a broad customer base.
- Superior Transportation Network: Access to major highway systems, 3 deepwater seaports, 5 international airports within 75 miles, and 330+ miles of rail, delivers unmatched connectivity. Polk County is committed to future-proofing its economy through strategic investments in water, road, and multimodal transportation infrastructure.
- Thriving Job Market: With a rapidly expanding job market, particularly in healthcare, manufacturing, information technology, logistics and tourism, Polk County is home to a diverse range of high-growth industries.
- Affordability: Polk County offers an attractive business climate with no state income tax. This makes it an appealing option for companies looking to maximize profitability while providing their employees with a competitively priced place to live and work.
- Vibrant Downtowns: The county’s growing downtowns, with their creative restaurants, breweries and nightlife, offer an urban vibe that rivals those of larger cities. These vibrant areas contribute to thriving quality of life for both residents and visitors, making Polk County a desirable place to live and do business.
These are just a few of the reasons why businesses and individuals are increasingly choosing Polk County as their destination of choice. The region is rapidly emerging as a beacon of opportunity, with ample resources, talent and infrastructure to support success.
The CFDC is here to assist your company in expanding or locating in Polk County. For more information, you can find us at www.cfdc.org or 863-937-4430.
Sean Malott is President & CEO of the Central Florida Development Council, which he has led since 2016. He has directed economic development and worked on business partnerships in a variety of roles through his career. He has a bachelor’s degree in business management from Purdue University.