St. Lucie County has 21 miles (34 km) of Atlantic coastline, nearly half of which is protected as public preservation land. These beaches provide abundant recreation opportunities for residents and visitors alike. They also serve as critical nesting habitats for endangered sea turtles, reflecting the county’s commitment to environmental conservation.

In recent decades, St. Lucie County has experienced rapid population growth. Between 2000 and 2010, it was among the fastest-growing counties in the U.S., gaining more than 80,000 new residents in that decade. This growth has been accompanied by a shift toward a more knowledge-based economy, as the county’s demographics and labor force diversify beyond traditional industries.

As of 2023, the county’s population is approximately 373,000, an increase of over 44,000 residents since 2020. This continued surge in population (about 13% growth in three years) underscores St. Lucie County’s ongoing development and rising prominence in Florida.

Incorporated in 1905, St. Lucie County is part of the Port St. Lucie, FL Metropolitan Statistical Area, which is also part of the Miami–Fort Lauderdale–Port St. Lucie Combined Statistical Area. The county consists of two incorporated cities—Fort Pierce (the county seat) and Port St. Lucie (the largest city)—as well as the Village of St. Lucie Village. The rest of the county’s land area is unincorporated.

St. Lucie County Quick Facts

• Area: total 688 square miles (1,780 km²), of which 572 square miles (1,480 km²) is land and 116 square miles (300 km²) (16.9%) is water.
• Coastline: 21 miles (34 km)
• Population (2023 est.): 373,586 (329,226 - 2020 U.S. Census)
• County Seat: Fort Pierce
• Largest City: Port St. Lucie