Florida is a diverse and populous state with a wide range of political views. However, some cities in the Sunshine State are more conservative than others, according to a recent ranking by RoadSnacks, a website that analyzes data on various topics. The ranking was based on how each city with a population of more than 5,000 voted in past elections, using Saturday Night Science, a method that measures the political leanings of a place based on its demographics, geography and culture.
The Most Conservative City in Florida: Macclenny
The most conservative city in Florida, according to the ranking, is Macclenny, a small city in Northeast Florida with a population of 6,414. Macclenny is located in Baker County, 28 miles west of Jacksonville and six miles south of the Georgia border. The city is 78.95 percent conservative, meaning that the majority of its residents voted for Republican candidates in recent elections.
Macclenny is a rural community with a strong agricultural and forestry sector. The city is also home to the Baker Correctional Institution, a state prison that employs many locals. Macclenny has a low cost of living, a low crime rate and a high quality of life. The city is known for its annual Baker County Fair, which features livestock shows, carnival rides and live entertainment.
The Runner-Up: Live Oak
The second most conservative city in Florida is Live Oak, another small city in North Florida with a population of 6,974. Live Oak is located in Suwannee County, 76 miles west of Jacksonville and 82 miles east of Tallahassee. The city is 77.9 percent conservative, meaning that most of its residents also voted for Republican candidates in recent elections.
Live Oak is a historic city that was founded in 1858 and served as a railroad hub in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The city is now a center of commerce and tourism for the surrounding area, which is rich in natural resources and attractions. Live Oak is famous for hosting the Suwannee River Jam, the largest country music festival in the South, every year at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park.
The Rest of the Top 10
The other cities that made the top 10 most conservative cities in Florida are:
- Perry, a city in Taylor County with a population of 6,847 and a conservative percentage of 76.5.
- Starke, a city in Bradford County with a population of 5,411 and a conservative percentage of 75.8.
- DeFuniak Springs, a city in Walton County with a population of 6,284 and a conservative percentage of 75.4.
- Freeport, a city in Walton County with a population of 2,658 and a conservative percentage of 75.4.
- Fernandina Beach, a city in Nassau County with a population of 12,558 and a conservative percentage of 72.4.
- Gulf Breeze, a city in Santa Rosa County with a population of 6,466 and a conservative percentage of 72.4.
- Milton, a city in Santa Rosa County with a population of 10,269 and a conservative percentage of 72.4.
- Lake City, a city in Columbia County with a population of 12,137 and a conservative percentage of 72.1.
Conclusion
Florida is a state that has a mix of political opinions and preferences, but some cities are more conservative than others. The most conservative city in Florida, according to a ranking by RoadSnacks, is Macclenny, followed by Live Oak and Perry. These cities are mostly located in North Florida and have a rural and traditional character. They also have a strong support for the Republican Party and its values.