Dixie County, Florida

Dixie County stretches along the Gulf Coast in Florida’s Big Bend region. The county is sparsely populated and largely rural, with Cross City serving as the county seat. Its quiet surroundings and small communities give the area a distinctly traditional North Florida character.

The Suwannee River forms much of the county’s eastern boundary, while Horseshoe Beach is a small coastal fishing village. Fishing remains an important part of life in Dixie County, with residents heading to both the Gulf of Mexico and local rivers. In some coastal areas, boats are a familiar sight.

The county’s extensive forests also provide opportunities for hunting and outdoor recreation. While Dixie County nightlife is limited, the quiet rural setting offers clear skies and plenty of opportunities for stargazing. With its slower pace and undeveloped landscapes, Dixie County captures a more peaceful side of Florida before the major tourist boom.

CategoryDetails
County NameDixie County
County SeatCross City
EtymologyNamed after the state of Dixie, a historic nickname for the southern United States
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesCross City, Old Town, Horseshoe Beach, Suwannee, Jena, Salem, and Trenton
Interstates and HighwaysU.S. 19, U.S. 98, SR 349, SR 55
FIPS Code12-029
Total Area (Land and Water)766 square miles (land: 705 sq mi, water: 61 sq mi)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction)Taylor County (Northwest), Lafayette County (North), Gilchrist County (East), Levy County (Southeast)
Time ZoneEastern Time Zone (ET)
StateFlorida
Coordinates29.6195° N, 83.1346° W
Major LandmarksSuwannee River, Fanning Springs State Park, Manatee Springs State Park, Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge
PopulationApproximately 17,000
Scroll to Top