Hillsborough County, Florida
Hillsborough County is the heart of the Tampa Bay area, combining vibrant city life with the natural beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast. The county offers a mix of beaches, theme parks, and urban development, while the waters of Tampa Bay provide excellent opportunities for boating and fishing.
Ybor City, Tampa’s historic Cuban district, is known for its rich cultural character and thriving food scene, from classic Cuban sandwiches to upscale restaurants. The county also has a strong military presence thanks to MacDill Air Force Base, adding another important part of the local community.
Rapid development and expanding suburbs can make traffic in Hillsborough County challenging at times. Still, the area blends a Southern way of life with Florida’s coastal vibe, making it possible to enjoy a professional football game and a day at the beach all in the same day.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Hillsborough County |
| County Seat | Tampa |
| Etymology | Named after Wills Hill, Earl of Hillsborough, former Secretary of State for the Colonies |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Tampa, Plant City, Riverview, Brandon, Valrico |
| Interstates and Highways | I-4, I-75, U.S. 92, U.S. 301, SR 60 |
| FIPS Code | 12-057 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 1,266 square miles (land: 1,023 sq mi, water: 243 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Pasco County (North), Polk County (East), Manatee County (South), Pinellas County (West), Hardee County (Southeast) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | Florida |
| Coordinates | 27.9478° N, 82.4584° W |
| Major Landmarks | Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, The Florida Aquarium, Tampa Riverwalk, Ybor City Historic District |
| Population | Approximately 1.5 million |
PHYSICAL MAP
Hillsborough County Topographic Map
Hillsborough County features gently rolling terrain, with numerous lakes and wetlands spread across the landscape. The eastern portions include low hills and ridges reaching elevations of around 160 feet above sea level. Our zoom tool highlights how the western areas gradually slope toward Tampa Bay.
SATELLITE IMAGERY
Hillsborough County Satellite Map
The county is centered around Tampa Bay, with urban development concentrated in Tampa and suburban communities expanding outward. The bay’s complex network of inlets, islands, and waterways shapes the coastline, while inland areas transition into rolling hills and agricultural fields. Our zoom tool makes it easier to explore the contrast between coastal and rural landscapes.
OUTLINE MAP
Hillsborough County Blank Map
Hillsborough County includes the northern shore of Tampa Bay, featuring a jagged coastline and several inlets. Our outline map of Hillsborough County highlights its irregular boundaries, which follow the curves of rivers, Tampa Bay, and historic land divisions.
