Zephyrhills: A Legacy of Growth, A Future of Opportunity

Nestled in the scenic rolling hills and citrus groves of Central Florida, Zephyrhills is strategically located in the southeastern corner of Pasco County—approximately 45 minutes from Tampa, 35 minutes from Lakeland, and just 90 minutes from Orlando’s globally renowned attractions. This central position, paired with accessible highways and proximity to major metropolitan markets, makes Zephyrhills a prime location for business development and economic investment.

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The city’s roots in commerce date back to the late 1800s, when the area—originally known as Abbott—emerged as a transportation and shipping hub following the arrival of the Seaboard Coast Line Railroad. Initially driven by industries such as turpentine, lumber, and agriculture, Zephyrhills’ early economy evolved as land was repurposed for pasture and citrus groves—sectors that continue to contribute to the region’s agricultural base today.

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A transformative milestone in Zephyrhills' development came in 1910, when Captain H.B. Jeffries founded a veterans' colony, inspired by the region’s fertile land, abundant fresh water, and healthful climate. The community was renamed Zephyrhills and officially incorporated in 1914. This foundational investment in quality of life continues to drive population and economic growth today.

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The mid-20th century marked a shift toward tourism and residential development. The area’s warm climate, affordability, and welcoming atmosphere drew retirees and seasonal residents, leading to rapid expansion in housing, RV parks, and local services. In 1961, Zephyrhills gained national attention when Don Robinson established the Zephyrhills Water Corporation, leveraging the area’s clean natural springs to bottle and distribute what became one of the most recognized water brands in the country. Today, Zephyrhills is proudly known as “The City of Pure Water”—a unique branding asset for the local economy.

Zephyrhills is also home to one of Pasco County’s key transportation assets: the Zephyrhills Municipal Airport. This general aviation airport serves as a major hub for recreational skydiving and aviation events, drawing visitors and competitors from around the world and fueling the local hospitality and retail sectors.

Over the past several decades, Zephyrhills has experienced sustained residential and commercial growth. The 1970s and 1980s introduced shopping centers, restaurants, and service providers, while the 1990s and 2000s brought planned residential communities to meet growing demand. Today, Zephyrhills continues to expand its infrastructure to support diversified economic development—from logistics and light manufacturing to tourism, healthcare, and retail.

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The city boasts a strong civic infrastructure, with numerous service organizations and community groups, and an educational system that supports workforce development. Zephyrhills’ municipal leadership remains focused on enhancing quality of life, fostering strategic partnerships, and preparing for future economic opportunity.

With its rich history, prime location, and ongoing investment in infrastructure and quality of life, Zephyrhills stands as a dynamic and welcoming environment for businesses, investors, and residents alike. As the city looks toward the future, it is poised to remain a catalyst for economic growth in East Pasco County and beyond.