Cities and Towns in Gulf County, Florida
Founded in 1925, Gulf County is one of 67 counties in the state of Florida. Historically, Gulf County was formed from Calhoun. The city of Port St. Joe is the county seat. With FIPS code of 45, Gulf County has a population of 14,363 and area of 565 square miles (1,463 km²).
List of all cities in Gulf County, FL alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Cape San Blas, FL | 32456 | 850 |
| Mexico Beach, FL | 32456 | 850 |
| Overstreet, FL | 32456 | 850 |
| Port Saint Joe, FL | 32456 | 850 |
| 32457 | 850 | |
| Wewahitchka, FL | 32465 | 850 |
Major Cities and Towns in Gulf County, Florida
Port St. Joe
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 12.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,500 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 32456, 32457
- Latitude and Longitude: 29.8113° N, 85.3024° W
Location and History
Port St. Joe is the county seat and largest city in Gulf County, located on the Florida Panhandle along the shores of St. Joseph Bay. The city was originally established in the 1830s as St. Joseph, which became the first capital of Florida’s Territorial Legislature. However, after a yellow fever epidemic and a hurricane devastated the area, the town was abandoned. It was later rebuilt as Port St. Joe in the early 20th century by the Alfred I. duPont Company, which established a paper mill that became the economic backbone of the community for many decades. Port St. Joe developed into a bustling industrial town with a deep-water port, though the closure of the mill in the late 1990s shifted the local economy toward tourism, fishing, and small-scale manufacturing. Today, Port St. Joe is known for its friendly community, rich history, and scenic waterfront.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Port St. Joe is served by the Gulf County School District, with Port St. Joe High School and Port St. Joe Elementary School being the main educational institutions. Major landmarks in Port St. Joe include the St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, which offers pristine beaches, camping, and opportunities for birdwatching and fishing. The Constitution Convention Museum State Park is another significant site, commemorating Florida’s first constitution, which was drafted in St. Joseph. The downtown area features the historic Port Theatre and several shops and restaurants that cater to both locals and tourists. Port St. Joe’s combination of historical significance, coastal beauty, and vibrant community life makes it a central and dynamic part of Gulf County.
Wewahitchka
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 7.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,100 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 32465
- Latitude and Longitude: 30.1147° N, 85.1991° W
Location and History
Wewahitchka, often referred to as “Wewa” by locals, is the second largest town in Gulf County, located in the northern part of the county along the Chipola River. The town’s name is derived from the Creek Indian words for “water eyes,” referring to the twin lakes in the area, Lake Alice and Lake Julia. Wewahitchka was established in the 19th century and has long been known for its agricultural roots, particularly in beekeeping. The town is famous for its Tupelo honey, which is harvested from the unique Tupelo trees that grow in the region’s swamps and riverbanks. Wewahitchka has maintained its small-town charm and natural beauty, making it a unique destination in Gulf County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Wewahitchka is served by the Gulf County School District, with Wewahitchka High School and Wewahitchka Elementary School being the primary educational institutions. Major landmarks include the Dead Lakes, a hauntingly beautiful area known for its fishing and boating opportunities, and the annual Tupelo Honey Festival, which celebrates the town’s beekeeping heritage. The nearby Apalachicola National Forest offers outdoor activities such as hiking, hunting, and wildlife observation. The town also features a historic courthouse and several local businesses that reflect its deep-rooted community values. Wewahitchka’s rich cultural heritage, connection to nature, and community-focused lifestyle make it a charming and essential part of Gulf County.
Highland View
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 450 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 32456
- Latitude and Longitude: 29.8444° N, 85.3150° W
Location and History
Highland View is a small, unincorporated community located just east of Port St. Joe, along the shores of St. Joseph Bay. The community developed in the mid-20th century as a residential area for workers at the nearby Port St. Joe paper mill and other local industries. Highland View has always been closely connected to the fishing industry, with many residents engaged in commercial and recreational fishing. The community’s location on the bay provides stunning waterfront views and easy access to the Gulf of Mexico, making it an attractive spot for those seeking a quiet coastal lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Highland View is served by the Gulf County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Port St. Joe. Major landmarks in Highland View include the Highland View Park, which offers a boat ramp, picnic areas, and views of St. Joseph Bay. The community’s proximity to the St. Joseph Peninsula State Park and other coastal attractions makes it a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. Highland View’s small size, scenic location, and close-knit community make it a peaceful and appealing place to live in Gulf County.
White City
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 2.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 32465 (associated with Wewahitchka)
- Latitude and Longitude: 29.8547° N, 85.2411° W
Location and History
White City is a small, unincorporated community located inland, near the intersection of State Road 71 and the Intracoastal Waterway in Gulf County. The community was established in the early 20th century and has remained a quiet, rural area with a focus on agriculture and fishing. White City’s location near the Intracoastal Waterway has made it a convenient spot for boating and fishing enthusiasts. The community has maintained its rural character, offering a peaceful retreat from the busier coastal towns in the county.
Major Schools and Landmarks
White City is served by the Gulf County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Wewahitchka or Port St. Joe. Major landmarks in White City include the White City Park, which provides access to the Intracoastal Waterway and features a boat ramp, picnic areas, and walking trails. The community’s rural setting and proximity to both the Intracoastal Waterway and the Gulf of Mexico make it an ideal location for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. White City’s small-town atmosphere, natural surroundings, and close-knit community make it a tranquil and welcoming place to live within Gulf County.
Map of Cities in Gulf County, FL
