Shops at Black Diamond
Closed198 West Norvell Bryant Highway, Lecanto, FL 34461
Homosassa Springs, FL
Homosassa Springs is an unincorporated community and census-designated place in southern Citrus County, on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Best known for its warm spring, the community is closely associated with manatees and Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. It sits near Crystal River, Homosassa, Lecanto, and Sugarmill Woods, offering a relaxed inland setting with easy access to rivers, springs, Gulf waters, and nature-based attractions. Its relatively spacious landscape and older population give it a peaceful, retirement-friendly character.
Recreational Delights
Outdoor recreation centers on Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, where visitors can see manatees drawn to the warm spring and explore Florida wildlife exhibits. Nearby Homosassa and the Homosassa River provide opportunities for boating, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, wildlife photography, and guided eco-tours. Crystal River and the Gulf Coast add access to manatee encounters, scalloping, bird-watching, and water-based excursions. Local roads and natural areas support leisurely cycling, walking, and sightseeing, while parks and waterways around Citrus County create an appealing setting for anglers and nature enthusiasts. The nearby communities of Crystal River and Old Homosassa broaden the recreational choices with marinas, waterfront access, and additional outdoor tours.
Culinary Scene
Homosassa Springs’ dining culture reflects its Gulf Coast setting and relaxed, outdoor-oriented lifestyle. Seafood is central, with locally popular preparations of grouper, shrimp, oysters, blue crab, and seasonal scallops appearing at casual restaurants and waterfront eateries. The nearby Homosassa River and Old Homosassa area are particularly associated with dockside dining, fish camps, and relaxed bars serving fresh catches and classic Florida fare. Crystal River adds further variety, including American comfort food, barbecue, Southern cooking, and international options. Rather than a formal food district, the area’s culinary identity is dispersed among riverfront restaurants, neighborhood establishments, marinas, and small local businesses, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, informal dining, and views of the surrounding waterways.
Demographics
- The supplied broader demographic profile lists 162,472 residents, a median age of 56.9, and median household income of $56,546—older and less affluent than U.S. benchmarks of 38.9 years and $80,734.
- Homosassa Springs itself had 14,283 residents in 2020. Its local median age was 53.6, with 29.8% of residents age 65 or older and 16.3% under 18.
- Local housing included 7,470 units, with 16.1% vacant. About 86.6% of adults had at least a high school diploma, while 7.7% held a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Population
162,472
Growth 2.38%
Households
71,291
Growth 2.28%
Median Age
56.9
US Median Age 38.9
Median Household Income
$56,546
US Median Household Income $80,734
Education
Homosassa Elementary School, Citrus County School District
Lecanto Middle School, Citrus County School District
Lecanto High School, Citrus County School District
College of Central Florida, Citrus Campus in Lecanto
Entertainment
Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
Homosassa Public Library
Crystal River Archaeological State Park
Citrus County Speedway
Quality of Life
Homosassa Springs offers a quiet, nature-oriented quality of life shaped by warm springs, rivers, wildlife, and Gulf Coast access. Housing costs and rents are comparatively modest, and the community has strong broadband access. Its older population, limited urban intensity, and proximity to healthcare, schools, shopping, and outdoor recreation make it especially appealing to retirees and residents seeking a slower pace.
2022 Population by age
3%
0-4 Years
13%
5-19 Years
4%
20-24 Years
17%
25-44 Years
26%
45-64 Years
36%
65+ Years
Employers
6%
Unemployment rate
Employment sectors
Health Care and Social Assistance
16.08%
Retail Trade
16.08%
Construction
9.33%
Accommodation and Food Services
8.36%
Educational Services
8.15%
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
5.86%
Manufacturing
5.62%
Public Administration
4.82%
Administrative and Support and Waste Management Services
4.6%
Transportation and Warehousing
4.48%
Finance and Insurance
3.66%
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation
2.86%
Real Estate and Rental and Leasing
2.7%
Utilities
2.57%
Other
4.82%