Spring Lake, Florida, is a small, unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Hernando County, nestled in the Nature Coast region of west-central Florida. With a population of 370 in 2022, down from 469 in 2021, Spring Lake maintains a rural, close-knit community atmosphere atop the scenic Brooksville Ridge. The area is characterized by rolling hills, with elevations ranging from 120 to 280 feet, offering a picturesque contrast to Florida’s typically flat terrain. Notable community landmarks include the Spring Lake Community Center, a historic rubble stone structure built in 1939 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009, and the Spring Lake United Methodist Church, established in 1884 and still active today. Local businesses like Boyett’s Grove Citrus Attraction and Papa Joe’s Restaurant add to the community’s charm, fostering a sense of heritage and local pride rooted in its 19th-century origins through the Armed Occupation Act.

Demographically, Spring Lake is predominantly White, with 96.8% of residents identifying as White (Non-Hispanic) and 2.7% as White (Hispanic) in 2022, alongside small percentages of other racial groups. The median age is 54.3 years, reflecting an older population, with 20.1% of residents aged 65 or older and 18.1% under 18, based on 2010 census data. The median household income in 2022 was $74,327, a 9.44% increase from the previous year, though 23.2% of the population lived below the poverty line, higher than the national average of 12.5%. Households average 2.44 members, with 64.9% headed by married couples and 17.0% consisting of individuals. The community’s low population density, spread across 3.4 square miles, supports its rural feel, with most residents owning their homes and valuing the area’s quiet, natural setting.

The community’s history and demographics shape its tranquil, family-oriented lifestyle, with a strong connection to its agricultural past and natural surroundings. Spring Lake’s fertile farmland, supported by the Brooksville Ridge’s unique geology, has historically attracted families like the Hope, Howell, and Lykes, who settled the area under 1842 land grants. Today, the Spring Lake Community Center serves as a hub for events and rentals, reinforcing social cohesion. Despite its small size, the community faces challenges, with a significant poverty rate and a 21.1% population decline from 2021 to 2022. Employment is diverse, with top job sectors including utilities, education, and professional services. Spring Lake’s blend of historical significance, rural charm, and tight-knit community spirit makes it a unique enclave in Hernando County, appealing to those seeking a peaceful, nature-rich lifestyle.

Community and Demographics in Spring Lake

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