Cities and Towns in DeSoto County, Florida
Founded in 1887, DeSoto County is one of 67 counties in the state of Florida. Historically, DeSoto County was formed from Manatee. The city of Arcadia is the county seat. With FIPS code of 27, DeSoto County has a population of 34,408 and area of 637 square miles (1,650 km²).
List of all cities in DeSoto County, FL alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Arcadia, FL | 34265 | 863 |
34266 | 863 | |
34269 | 863 | |
Fort Ogden, FL | 34267 | 863 |
Lake Suzy, FL | 34266 | 863 |
34269 | 863 | |
Nocatee, FL | 34268 | 863 |
Sidell, FL | 34266 | 863 |
Major Cities and Towns in DeSoto County, Florida
Arcadia
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 4.11 square miles
- Population: Approximately 8,500 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 34265, 34266, 34269
- Latitude and Longitude: 27.2156° N, 81.8584° W
Location and History
Arcadia is located in the heart of DeSoto County, serving as the county seat and central hub. It is nestled along the Peace River, a key waterway that has shaped much of the town’s history and development. Founded in the late 19th century, Arcadia became known for its rich agricultural heritage, particularly in cattle ranching and citrus farming. The city’s name is believed to have been given by the postmaster’s wife in 1886, honoring a friend named Arcadia Albritton. The downtown area, with its historic buildings, survived a devastating fire in 1905 and now boasts numerous antique shops, drawing visitors interested in history and collectibles.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Arcadia is home to several key educational institutions, including DeSoto County High School, DeSoto Middle School, and West Elementary School. The city also features the DeSoto Memorial Hospital, a critical healthcare provider in the region. Major landmarks in Arcadia include the Arcadia Opera House, which now functions as a museum and antique store, and the annual Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo, which draws visitors from across the state. The Peace River offers recreational activities such as canoeing and fossil hunting, further enhancing Arcadia’s appeal.
Lake Suzy
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,300 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 34269
- Latitude and Longitude: 27.0437° N, 82.0391° W
Location and History
Lake Suzy is an unincorporated community located in the southwestern corner of DeSoto County, near the Charlotte County line. Originally developed as a retirement community, Lake Suzy offers a tranquil residential environment with easy access to nearby cities like Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda. The community is centered around the artificial Lake Suzy, which provides scenic views and recreational opportunities for residents. Although Lake Suzy is a relatively young community, it has grown steadily due to its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to larger urban areas, making it a popular choice for retirees and those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
While Lake Suzy itself does not have major schools within its boundaries, it is served by educational institutions in the nearby areas of DeSoto and Charlotte Counties. Residents often attend schools in Arcadia or Punta Gorda, such as Nocatee Elementary School and Charlotte High School. Notable landmarks include the Kingsway Country Club, a premier golf course that is a central feature of the community, and the serene Lake Suzy, which offers fishing, boating, and bird-watching opportunities. The area is also close to the Peace River Wildlife Center, providing further recreational and educational experiences.
Fort Ogden
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 34267
- Latitude and Longitude: 27.0437° N, 82.0391° W
Location and History
Fort Ogden is a small, unincorporated community located in southern DeSoto County along U.S. Route 17. It is one of the oldest settlements in the county, dating back to the Second Seminole War in the 1840s when a military fort was established here to protect settlers from Seminole attacks. The fort itself is long gone, but the community that grew around it retained the name. Fort Ogden remained a significant agricultural hub in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly known for cattle ranching and citrus groves. Although it is now a quiet rural community, its historical roots are still evident in the area’s culture and heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fort Ogden is a small community with limited educational facilities within its boundaries. However, it is served by schools in nearby Arcadia, such as DeSoto County High School and DeSoto Middle School. Notable landmarks include the old Fort Ogden Church, one of the few remaining structures from the town’s earlier days, and the surrounding cattle ranches, which continue to play a significant role in the local economy. The nearby Peace River offers recreational activities, including fishing and boating, making Fort Ogden a peaceful retreat with a rich historical background.