Central Florida’s Horse Industry
Central Florida’s horse industry is highly diverse, supporting various activities. It combines the primary rural activities of breeding, raising, and training horses with the more urban activities of operating racetracks, off-track betting parlors, horse shows, polo, rodeos, and other equine recreational pursuits. The Central Florida horse industry produces goods and services valued at $2.2 billion and has an overall economic impact estimated at an annual $6.5 billion. Central Florida is home to over 300,000 horses and more than 12,000 horse farms, creating more than 72,000 jobs.
Environmental Advantages
Central Florida is home to nearly every horse breed and is represented by equine champions worldwide. More than 240,000 Floridians are owned service providers and employees in the horse industry. Their breeders, owners, and trainers are drawn to Florida’s year-round moderate climate, mineral-rich water and soil, outstanding facilities, and strong support industries.
Agricultural Business Climate