Why Suwannee County?

Suwannee County, Florida, stands out as a prime location for businesses seeking to expand and thrive. But WHY? With a robust labor force, exceptional transportation infrastructure, and a competitive cost of living, Suwannee County offers a fertile ground for economic growth. Let’s break it down.

Affordability

Suwannee County offers an affordable environment for business growth with competitive land prices and a low cost of living that reduces overhead expenses. Business owners also benefit from favorable tax rates, lower utility costs, and local incentives.

  • Cost of Living Index: 88.9
  • 11.1% lower than the US average
  • Average Annual Salary: $47,143

Connectivity & Transportation:

Suwannee County boasts exceptional transportation and connectivity. Centrally located just 90 minutes outside of Jacksonville, Tallahassee, and Gainesville, access is easy with two major highways, two major interstates, an established rail system, and four nearby airports. This robust infrastructure ensures efficient distribution and logistics, enabling businesses to reach regional, national, and international markets with ease. Whether you’re moving goods or connecting with clients, Suwannee County’s transportation network provides the reliable solutions your business needs to succeed.

Current and Future Development

In 2012, the state of Florida launched the 500-acre Suwannee County Regional Industrial Corridor (SCRIC) for manufacturing and industrial-size businesses. With pre-zoned parcels and access to water, electrical power, natural gas, fiber, and a rail spur from the Florida Gulf and Atlantic mainline, this has become a desirable location for numerous businesses.

With continued demand, Suwannee County has continued to expand the SCRIC with the acquisition of an additional 250 acres of county-owned property with the availability of approximately 1,500 additional privately owned acres.

Available Workforce

The region boasts a diverse demographic profile, coupled with strong employment statistics and a robust labor force, ensuring access to skilled talent. Suwannee County is also situated between three premier universities, securing a pipeline of over 34,000 annual graduates for talent and research potential.

  • Available labor force within Suwannee County: 20,195
  • Available labor force within a 45-minute drive: 57,362
  • Veteran Population: 6.7% (ages 18 to 64)
  • Unemployment Rate: 3.7%
  • Population with a high school degree or higher: 82.33%

Quality of Life

What makes Suwannee County truly special is our extraordinary quality of life. Our quiet community is filled with kindness and support.  New residents immediately appreciate the hometown vibe, neighborly feel, and relaxed atmosphere. The unspoiled natural beauty of Suwannee County—with freshwater springs, rivers, underwater caves, and hiking trails—offers an abundance of outdoor recreation. Plus, it’s home to the popular Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park for amazing concerts, campsites, and recreation on the Suwannee River.

Pilgrim’s
“Here in Suwannee County, the workforce is really great to work with. They have a strong work ethic and really have a great sense of pride in what they do.”
— Brett Lang, Complex Manager, Pilgrim’s Live Oak

Where is Suwannee County?

Call us at 386-364-1700
Email Mr. Norris at jimmyn@suwedofl.gov