Demographics

The population of Sumter County has grown steadily over the past decade, fueled primarily by the continuing growth of The Villages® community. The 2020 Census population was 129,752. Sumter County boasted an impressive 42% growth rate for 2010-2019 (EMSI, 2021); making Sumter County one of the fastest growing counties in Florida… again!

Workforce

The Sumter County labor force increased dramatically between 2015-2020, rising 12.1% (FRED) over the five years. Average annual employment in 2020 across all industries was 36,582 (Jobs EQ). There is a workforce of 1,396,537 (Jobs EQ, 2019) within a 40 minute drive of Sumter County.

Economic Data

Sumter County, Florida is a leading example of sound and verified fiscal responsibility at the local level. Fitch Ratings for 2020 affirmed Sumter County’s Capital Improvement Revenue Bonds with an AA+ rating. Sumter County’s Issuer Default Rating (IDR) is also at AA+.

Fitch also reported that less than 400 local tax-supported jurisdictions in the United States qualify for an AA+ rating. This rating reflects the county’s continued growth and diversification and maintenance of robust financial operations.

SBA Offers Disaster Relief to Florida Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by May Drought

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Florida who sustained economic losses caused by the drought beginning May 6. The SBA is offering low-interest economic injury disaster loans. The loan amount can be up to $2 million, with interest rates as low as 4%, and terms of up to 30 years. The deadline to apply is February 2, 2026.

Planning for Businesses

As Florida enters another hurricane season, businesses — especially small and medium-sized enterprises — face heightened risks of operational disruption, property damage, and financial loss. According to FEMA, 40% of small businesses never reopen after a disaster, and 25% more fail within a year if they lack a continuity plan.

Fortunately, Florida offers a wealth of resources to help businesses prepare, respond, and recover. The Florida Division of Emergency Management provides comprehensive guidance through its Business Planning portal, while the Florida Department of Financial Services offers consumer-focused storm preparedness tips.

Sumter County Economic Development recently honored

On May 20, 2025, the Sumter County School Board held a reception for the recipients of the Outstanding Service to Schools award, followed by their regular board meeting. Sumter County Economic Development was recently honored with this award for their support of students and workforce development in Sumter County.

Wildwood’s downtown Railyard is under construction

According to Wildwood officials, the project is expected to bring new dining and entertainment venues to the downtown area. Located a block south of the city’s new Main Street Parking Garage, the Railyard will feature indoor and outdoor areas for the public to enjoy food, drinks, entertainment and recreation.

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Economic Data

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Latest News

SBA Offers Disaster Relief to Florida Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by May Drought

Planning for Businesses

Florida Economic Forecast 2024-2030

Make Onshoring Great Again portal

Sumter County Economic Development recently honored

Wildwood to Break Ground on New Water Reclamation Facility

SCED hosts Manufacturing Round Table

Wildwood’s downtown Railyard is under construction