What is the Treasure Coast
The Treasure Coast is located on the eastern coast of Florida, encompassing several counties, including Indian River, St. Lucie, and Martin. The name “Treasure Coast” refers to the area’s history of Spanish galleons and shipwrecks that occurred in the 17th and 18th centuries, resulting in valuable treasures being lost and later discovered along the coastline.
The region is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and relaxed atmosphere, making it an attractive destination for tourists and residents. The Treasure Coast boasts a variety of natural attractions, such as the Indian River Lagoon, one of the most biodiverse estuaries in the United States, and the St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park, which offers pristine beaches and opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Some of the major cities and towns within the Treasure Coast include:
- Vero Beach: Located in Indian River County, Vero Beach is a charming coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and lush parks. The city is home to the Riverside Theatre, the Vero Beach Museum of Art, and the McKee Botanical Garden.
- Fort Pierce: Situated in St. Lucie County, Fort Pierce is a historic city with a vibrant downtown area, scenic waterfront, and numerous attractions, including the Navy SEAL Museum, the Manatee Observation and Education Center, and the A.E. Backus Museum and Gallery.
- Port St. Lucie: Also in St. Lucie County, Port St. Lucie is a rapidly growing city that offers a mix of residential communities, recreational activities, and natural attractions. The city is home to the First Data Field, the spring training facility for the New York Mets, and the beautiful Port St. Lucie Botanical Gardens.
- Stuart: The county seat of Martin County, Stuart is known as the “Sailfish Capital of the World” due to its prime location for sport fishing. The city’s charming downtown area features a mix of shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, while the nearby Jonathan Dickinson State Park offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
The Treasure Coast provides a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, making it a desirable location for both visitors and residents.
Business Growth on the Treasure Coast
The business economy on the Treasure Coast has been experiencing steady growth over the past few years, with various industries contributing to its overall development. The region’s appealing climate, natural beauty, and strategic location have attracted businesses and residents alike, helping to diversify the economy and create a thriving environment for entrepreneurs and established companies. Some of the key industries and economic drivers on the Treasure Coast include:
- Tourism and Hospitality: With its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and numerous attractions, the Treasure Coast is a popular tourist destination. The tourism and hospitality industry plays a significant role in the local economy, generating revenue through hotels, restaurants, recreational activities, and other tourism-related services.
- Healthcare: The healthcare industry is a major employer in the Treasure Coast region, with numerous hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers offering a wide range of services to the growing population. As the population continues to age and expand, demand for healthcare services is expected to increase, making this industry a crucial component of the local economy.
- Marine and Boating: Given its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian River Lagoon, the Treasure Coast has a thriving marine and boating industry. The region is home to several marinas, boat manufacturers, and marine-related businesses, creating job opportunities and contributing to the local economy.
- Agriculture: Agriculture has long been a significant economic driver on the Treasure Coast, particularly in Indian River County, which is known for its citrus production. The region produces various agricultural products, including fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants, contributing to the local and state economy.
- Construction and Real Estate: As the population of the Treasure Coast grows, so does the demand for residential and commercial properties. The construction and real estate industries have experienced growth in recent years, with new residential communities, commercial spaces, and infrastructure projects being developed to accommodate the expanding population.