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Coordinates: 27°54′34″N 82°47′14″W / 27.90944°N 82.78722°W / 27.90944; -82.78722
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{{About-distinguish|the 4th largest city in the Tampa Bay area|Key Largo, Florida}}
{{About-distinguish|the city in the Tampa Bay area|Key Largo, Florida}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=July 2023}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=July 2023}}
{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
|name = Largo, Florida
|name = Largo, Florida
|official_name = City of Largo
|settlement_type = [[City (Florida)|City]]
|settlement_type = [[City]]
|image_skyline = Largo Library 2005.jpg
|image_skyline = Largo Library 2005.jpg
|image_caption = Largo Public Library
|image_caption = Largo Public Library
Line 19: Line 18:
|subdivision_type2 = [[County (United States)|County]]
|subdivision_type2 = [[County (United States)|County]]
|subdivision_name2 = [[Pinellas County, Florida|Pinellas]]
|subdivision_name2 = [[Pinellas County, Florida|Pinellas]]
|established_title = Incorporated
|established_title = [[Municipal corporation|Incorporated]]
|established_date = June 6, 1905
|established_date = June 6, 1905
|government_type = [[Council–manager government|Commission–Manager]]
|government_type = [[Council–manager government|Commission–Manager]]
|leader_title = [[Mayor]]
|leader_title = [[Mayor]]
|leader_name = Woody Brown
|leader_name = Woody Brown
|leader_title1 = [[City Council|Commissioners]]
|leader_name1 = Michael Smith,<br>Curtis Holmes,<br>Eric Gerard,<br>Jamie Robinson,<br>Donna Holck, and<br>Chris Johnson
|leader_title2 = [[City Manager]]
|leader_name2 = John Curp
|leader_title3 = [[City Clerk]]
|leader_name3 = Diane L. Bruner
|leader_title4 = [[City Attorney]]
|leader_name4 = Alan S. Zimmet
|unit_pref = Imperial
|unit_pref = Imperial
|area_footnotes = <ref name="CenPopGazetteer2020">{{cite web|title=2020 U.S. Gazetteer Files|url=https://www2.census.gov/geo/docs/maps-data/data/gazetteer/2020_Gazetteer/2020_gaz_place_12.txt|publisher=United States Census Bureau|accessdate=October 31, 2021}}</ref>
|area_footnotes = <ref name="CenPopGazetteer2020">{{cite web|title=2020 U.S. Gazetteer Files|url=https://www2.census.gov/geo/docs/maps-data/data/gazetteer/2020_Gazetteer/2020_gaz_place_12.txt|publisher=United States Census Bureau|accessdate=October 31, 2021}}</ref>
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|population_density_km2 = 1712.52
|population_density_km2 = 1712.52
}}
}}
'''Largo''' is the third largest city in [[Pinellas County, Florida]], United States, as well as the fourth largest in the [[Tampa Bay area]]. As of the 2020 Census, the city had a population of 82,500,<ref name="Census 2010">{{Cite web| url=https://www.census.gov| title=Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics: 2010 Demographic Profile Data (DP-1): Largo city, Florida| publisher=[[United States Census Bureau]]| access-date=May 7, 2012}}</ref> up from 69,371 in [[2000 United States Census|2000]].
'''Largo''' is the third largest city in [[Pinellas County, Florida]], United States, as well as the fourth largest in the [[Tampa Bay area]]. As of the 2020 Census, the city had a population of 82,485,<ref>{{Cite web| url=https://data.census.gov/profile/Largo_city,_Florida?g=160XX00US1239425| title=Geography Profile - Largo city, Florida| publisher=[[United States Census Bureau]]| access-date=January 17, 2024}}</ref> up from 77,648 in [[2010 United States Census|2010]].


Largo was first incorporated in 1905. In 1913, it became the first municipality in Pinellas County to adopt a [[council-manager government]]. It switched back and forth between "town" and "city" a few times, and became a city again in 1974. It was an exporter of agricultural products until the 1960s population growth began to transform it into a [[commuter town|bedroom community]]. From 1905 to 2010, Largo grew in area from {{convert|9/16|sqmi|km2}} to about {{convert|48|km2|order=flip|0}}, and in population from about 300 people to more than 70,000. Largo began as a rural farming community and became the third largest city in Florida's most densely populated county.
Largo was first incorporated in 1905. In 1913, it became the first municipality in Pinellas County to adopt a [[council-manager government]]. It switched back and forth between "town" and "city" a few times, and became a city again in 1974. It was an exporter of agricultural products until the 1960s population growth began to transform it into a [[commuter town|bedroom community]]. From 1905 to 2010, Largo grew in area from {{convert|9/16|sqmi|km2|adj=pre|of a}} to about {{convert|48|km2|order=flip|0}}, and in population from about 300 people to more than 70,000. Largo began as a rural farming community and became the third largest city in Florida's most densely populated county.


Largo is a [[sister city]] to [[Tosayamada, Kōchi]], Japan, and has been named a National [[Arbor Day]] Tree City for 32 years in a row.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tree City USA at arborday.org |url=https://www.arborday.org/programs/treeCityUSA/#recognizedSection |access-date=2022-03-04 |website=www.arborday.org}}</ref>
Largo is a [[sister city]] to [[Tosayamada, Kōchi]], Japan, and has been named a National [[Arbor Day]] Tree City for 35 years in a row {{As of|2023|lc=y|bare=}}.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tree City USA at arborday.org |url=https://www.arborday.org/programs/treeCityUSA/#recognizedSection |access-date=2022-03-04 |website=www.arborday.org}}</ref>


==History==
==History==


===Beginnings of the area===
===Beginnings of the area===
{{For timeline|Timeline of Largo, Florida history}}

{{For timeline|Timeline of Largo history}}
The native inhabitants of the Largo area were the [[Tocobaga]] Indians. They are also known as the Safety Harbor culture from their archeological remains near present-day [[Safety Harbor, Florida|Safety Harbor]]. The [[Spanish Empire|Spanish]] came to Florida in the 16th century. In the 18th century, the Tocobaga had been virtually destroyed after years of exposure to European diseases, Spanish settlement efforts and warfare between Spain and England. The Largo area, like the rest of Pinellas County, was largely deserted. In 1763, Spain transferred sovereignty of Florida to the United Kingdom. In 1783, Florida fell to Spanish sovereignty once again until it was transferred to the United States in 1821. By 1845, a surveyor recorded the location of Lake Tolulu, apparently south of present-day East Bay Drive and roughly where the Largo Central Park Nature Preserve is today.
The native inhabitants of the Largo area were the [[Tocobaga]] Indians. They are also known as the Safety Harbor culture from their archeological remains near present-day [[Safety Harbor, Florida|Safety Harbor]]. The [[Spanish Empire|Spanish]] came to Florida in the 16th century. In the 18th century, the Tocobaga had been virtually destroyed after years of exposure to European diseases, Spanish settlement efforts and warfare between Spain and England. The Largo area, like the rest of Pinellas County, was largely deserted. In 1763, Spain transferred sovereignty of Florida to the United Kingdom. In 1783, Florida fell to Spanish sovereignty once again until it was transferred to the United States in 1821. By 1845, a surveyor recorded the location of Lake Tolulu, apparently south of present-day East Bay Drive and roughly where the Largo Central Park Nature Preserve is today.


[[Image:Largo Central Park Nature Preserve01.JPG|thumb|right|Boardwalk across wetlands in Largo Central Park Nature Preserve, the bed of the former Lake Largo]]
[[Image:Largo Central Park Nature Preserve01.JPG|thumb|right|Boardwalk across wetlands in Largo Central Park Nature Preserve, the bed of the former Lake Largo]]
Later, homesteaders to the Largo area were the families of James and Daniel McMullen around 1852. The McMullens and other settlers raised cattle, grew citrus and vegetables and fished. During the [[American Civil War|Civil War]], many Largo area residents fought for the [[Confederate States of America]]. James and Daniel McMullen were members of the [[1st Florida Special Cavalry Battalion|"Cow Cavalry"]] driving Florida cattle to [[Georgia (U.S. state)|Georgia]] and [[the Carolinas]] to help sustain the war effort. Other area residents served on [[blockade runner]]s. Still others left the area to serve in the Confederacy's armies. After the war, Largo area residents returned to farming, ranching, and raising citrus. The [[Orange Belt Railway]] reached the area in 1888. By this time Lake Tolulu had been renamed Lake Largo, and residents of the community west of the lake adopted the name "Largo".
Later homesteaders to the Largo area included the families of James and Daniel McMullen, around 1852. The McMullens and other settlers raised cattle, grew citrus and vegetables and fished. During the [[American Civil War|Civil War]], many Largo area residents fought for the [[Confederate States of America]]. James and Daniel McMullen were members of the [[1st Florida Special Cavalry Battalion|"Cow Cavalry"]] driving Florida cattle to [[Georgia (U.S. state)|Georgia]] and [[the Carolinas]] to help sustain the war effort. Other area residents served on [[blockade runner]]s. Still others left the area to serve in the Confederacy's armies. After the war, Largo area residents returned to farming, ranching, and raising citrus. The [[Orange Belt Railway]] reached the area in 1888. By this time Lake Tolulu had been renamed Lake Largo,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schulte |first=Eileen |date=June 27, 2004 |title=How Largo got its name, maybe |url=http://www.sptimes.com/2004/06/27/Northpinellas/How_Largo_got_its_nam.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040925031516/http://www.sptimes.com/2004/06/27/Northpinellas/How_Largo_got_its_nam.shtml |archive-date=September 25, 2004 |website=St. Petersburg Times}}</ref> and residents of the community west of the lake adopted the name "Largo".

===Early Largo===


===Incorporation to Great Depression===
[[File:Largo, Florida Map Mar 6,1925.jpg|thumb|left|Map of Largo (1925)]]
[[File:Largo, Florida Map Mar 6,1925.jpg|thumb|left|Map of Largo (1925)]]
The Town of Largo was incorporated in 1905. Lake Largo was drained in 1916 to make way for growth and development. Between 1910 and 1930, Largo's population increased about 500%. Then and for decades afterwards, Largo's economy was based on agriculture—[[citrus]] groves, [[cattle ranch]]es, and [[Pig farming|hog farms]], as well as [[turpentine]] stills and [[sawmill]]s. Largo is best remembered as "Citrus City", from the time it was a citrus packing, canning and shipping center.
The Town of Largo was incorporated in 1905. Lake Largo was drained in 1916 to make way for growth and development. Between 1910 and 1930, Largo's population increased by about 500%. Then and for decades afterwards, Largo's economy was based on agriculture—[[citrus]] groves, [[cattle ranch]]es, and [[Pig farming|hog farms]], as well as [[turpentine]] stills and [[sawmill]]s. Largo is best remembered as "Citrus City", from the time it was a citrus packing, canning and shipping center.


The [[Great Depression]] was difficult for Largo. Largo lacked the financial resources to meet its obligations. Largo reverted to its 1913 boundaries and charter. The population dropped approximately 30%. The debt incurred by the issuance of bonds in the late 1920s was not paid off until after World War II.
The [[Great Depression]] was difficult for Largo, which lacked the financial resources to meet its obligations. Largo reverted to its 1913 boundaries and charter, after which the population dropped by approximately 30%. The debt incurred from the issuance of bonds in the late 1920s was not paid off until after World War II.


===Rapid growth ===
===Rapid growth ===
[[File:Taylor Lake Park2.jpg|thumb|Taylor Lake Park is a county park in Largo on 8th Avenue SW]]
[[File:Taylor Lake Park2.jpg|thumb|Taylor Lake Park is a county park in Largo on 8th Avenue SW.]]
The years after World War II saw rapid growth as people began moving into the area and Largo annexed surrounding lands. During the [[nuclear arms race]], electronics companies like [[General Electric]] and [[Honeywell]] boosted the economy. The population increased to about 5,000 in 1960, to about 20,000 in 1970, and to about 70,000 in 2005. Largo's original area was {{Convert|9/16|sqmi|km2}}. By 1982, Largo had grown to about {{convert|13|sqmi|km2|0}} and to about {{convert|48|km2|order=flip|0}} by 2010. The groves, farms, ranches and forests have mostly given way to homes and shopping centers and light industry. The increased population resulted in a need for increased city services. All departments saw rapid growth and improvements in quality, especially under the leadership of the late Mayor Thom Feaster. In 1995, Largo Central Park opened on the site of the old Pinellas County Fairgrounds. It is the setting for the Largo Central Park Performing Arts Center and the Largo Public Library.
The years after World War II saw rapid growth as people began moving into the area and Largo annexed surrounding lands. During the [[nuclear arms race]], electronics companies like [[General Electric]] and [[Honeywell]] boosted the economy. The population increased to about 5,000 in 1960, to about 20,000 in 1970, and to about 70,000 in 2005. Largo's original area was {{Convert|9/16|sqmi|km2|of a|adj=pre}}. By 1982, Largo had grown to about {{convert|13|sqmi|km2|0}} and to about {{convert|48|km2|order=flip|0}} by 2010. The groves, farms, ranches and forests have mostly given way to homes and shopping centers and light industry. The increased population resulted in a need for increased city services. All departments saw rapid growth and improvements in quality, especially under the leadership of the late Mayor Thom Feaster. In 1995, [[Largo Central Park]] opened on the site of the old Pinellas County Fairgrounds. It is the setting for the Largo Central Park Performing Arts Center and is located across the street from the Largo Public Library.<ref>{{cite book|last=Schnur|first=James Anthony|year=2011|title=Largo|series=Images of America|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=A0dyPvN9S7EC&pg=PA124|publisher=[[Arcadia Publishing]]|page=124|isbn=978-1531654535}}</ref>


In the 2006 commission elections, Largo achieved two milestones furthering its former motto of "City of Progress". [[Democratic Party (United States)|Democrat]] [[Patricia Gerard]] became the city's first female mayor. She narrowly defeated incumbent mayor [[Robert E. Jackson]] in a bitterly contested race. (Dr. Jackson had been the longest-serving elected Democrat in Pinellas County.) The voters' choice between these two candidates decided the major issue of the election: that the city would not revert to a mayor-dominated process of governance in lieu of the continuing role for the seven-member commission acting as non-partisans—that is, deliberating independently and equally with the mayor and deciding democratically the political issues of the city.
In the 2006 commission elections, Largo achieved two milestones furthering its former motto of "City of Progress". [[Democratic Party (United States)|Democrat]] [[Patricia Gerard]] became the city's first female mayor. She narrowly defeated incumbent mayor [[Robert E. Jackson]] in a bitterly contested race. (Dr. Jackson had been the longest-serving elected Democrat in Pinellas County.) The voters' choice between these two candidates decided the major issue of the election: that the city would not revert to a mayor-dominated process of governance in lieu of the continuing role for the seven-member commission acting as non-partisans—that is, deliberating independently and equally with the mayor and deciding democratically the political issues of the city.
Line 87: Line 92:
Also, the city elected its first commissioner of African-American descent, Rodney J. Woods, in a [[Landslide victory|landslide]] against a former commissioner.
Also, the city elected its first commissioner of African-American descent, Rodney J. Woods, in a [[Landslide victory|landslide]] against a former commissioner.


On August 24, 2009, the iconic Largo [[Clock tower|Clock Tower]], which was constructed shortly after completion of Largo Central Park, was demolished. City officials made the decision because of the tower's decay and because a deteriorating landmark at a busy intersection was not an uplifting and memorable sight. The area surrounding the clock tower was replaced with a small garden area in order to incorporate the area into Largo Central Park.<ref name="Its time for Largo clock tower to go">{{cite web |url=http://www.tampabay.com/opinion/editorials/article1000360.ece |title=Removal of Largo Clock Tower |publisher=Tampa Bay Times |access-date=22 June 2012}}</ref>
On August 24, 2009, the iconic Largo clock tower, which was constructed shortly after completion of Largo Central Park, was demolished. City officials made the decision as the tower had fallen into disrepair. The area surrounding the clock tower was replaced with a small garden area in order to incorporate the area into Largo Central Park.<ref>{{cite news|date=March 28, 2008|title=Clock's new face|url=https://newspapers.com/article/tampa-bay-times/143265853/|newspaper=[[Tampa Bay Times]]|location=St. Petersburg, Florida|page=5|access-date=March 13, 2024|via=[[Newspapers.com]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Helfand|first=Lorri|date=May 3, 2009|title=Landmark park to get facelift|url=https://newspapers.com/article/tampa-bay-times/143265727/|newspaper=[[Tampa Bay Times]]|location=St. Petersburg, Florida|page=3|access-date=March 13, 2024|via=[[Newspapers.com]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|date=December 27, 2009|title=Palms are in place|url=https://newspapers.com/article/tampa-bay-times/143265884/|newspaper=[[Tampa Bay Times]]|location=St. Petersburg, Florida|page=3|access-date=March 13, 2024|via=[[Newspapers.com]]}}</ref>


==Geography==
==Geography==

Largo is located at {{Coord|27|54|30|N|82|46|40|W}} (27.908355, −82.777791).<ref name="GR1">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/geographies/reference-files/time-series/geo/gazetteer-files.html|publisher=[[United States Census Bureau]]|access-date=2011-04-23|date=2011-02-12|title=US Gazetteer files: 2010, 2000, and 1990}}</ref> It is centrally located in Pinellas County, touching the [[Intracoastal Waterway]] to the southwest and [[Tampa Bay]] to the northeast. [[Clearwater, Florida|Clearwater]] is Largo's neighbor to the north. To the northwest are the towns of [[Belleair, Florida|Belleair]] and [[Belleair Bluffs, Florida|Belleair Bluffs]]. The city of [[Pinellas Park, Florida|Pinellas Park]] lies south of eastern Largo. [[Seminole, Florida|Seminole]] lies south of western Largo. The unincorporated community of [[Ridgecrest, Florida|Ridgecrest]] forms a large enclave between western and central Largo. A number of county enclaves pepper the City of Largo.
Largo is located at {{Coord|27|54|30|N|82|46|40|W}} (27.908355, −82.777791).<ref name="GR1">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/geographies/reference-files/time-series/geo/gazetteer-files.html|publisher=[[United States Census Bureau]]|access-date=2011-04-23|date=2011-02-12|title=US Gazetteer files: 2010, 2000, and 1990}}</ref> It is centrally located in Pinellas County, touching the [[Intracoastal Waterway]] to the southwest and [[Tampa Bay]] to the northeast. [[Clearwater, Florida|Clearwater]] is Largo's neighbor to the north. To the northwest are the towns of [[Belleair, Florida|Belleair]] and [[Belleair Bluffs, Florida|Belleair Bluffs]]. The city of [[Pinellas Park, Florida|Pinellas Park]] lies south of eastern Largo. [[Seminole, Florida|Seminole]] lies south of western Largo. The unincorporated community of [[Ridgecrest, Florida|Ridgecrest]] forms a large enclave between western and central Largo. A number of county enclaves pepper the City of Largo.


[[File:Largo, FL street flooding during TS Debby, June 2012.jpg|thumb|A Largo street floods after [[Tropical Storm Debby (2012)]]]]
[[File:Largo, FL street flooding during TS Debby, June 2012.jpg|thumb|A Largo street floods after [[Tropical Storm Debby (2012)|Tropical Storm Debby]] in 2012.]]
In 2010, Largo's total area was {{convert|48.1|km2|order=flip}}, of which {{convert|45.6|sqkm|order=flip}} was land and {{convert|2.5|sqkm|order=flip}}, or 5.22%, was water.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.census.gov |title=Geographic Identifiers: 2010 Demographic Profile Data (G001): Largo city, Florida |publisher=[[United States Census Bureau]] |access-date=May 7, 2012}}</ref> As of 2004, there were {{convert|651|acre|km2|1}} of park lands. The city's lowest elevation is sea level. At its highest, the city's elevation is about {{convert|69|ft|m|0}}. Largo is dotted with a number of lakes, the largest of which is Taylor Lake at {{convert|53|acre|m2}}. Allen's Creek drains northeast Largo, flowing into Tampa Bay. McKay Creek flows through southwest Largo into the Intracoastal Waterway. The McKay Creek basin is prone to flooding.
In 2010, Largo's total area was {{convert|48.1|km2|order=flip}}, of which {{convert|45.6|sqkm|order=flip}} was land and {{convert|2.5|sqkm|order=flip}}, or 5.22%, was water.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.census.gov |title=Geographic Identifiers: 2010 Demographic Profile Data (G001): Largo city, Florida |publisher=[[United States Census Bureau]] |access-date=May 7, 2012}}</ref> As of 2004, there were {{convert|651|acre|km2|1}} of park lands. The city's lowest elevation is sea level. At its highest, the city's elevation is about {{convert|69|ft|m|0}}. Largo is dotted with a number of lakes, the largest of which is Taylor Lake at {{convert|53|acre|m2}}. Allen's Creek drains northeast Largo, flowing into Tampa Bay. McKay Creek flows through southwest Largo into the Intracoastal Waterway. The McKay Creek basin is prone to flooding.


===Climate===
===Climate===
Largo is located on the [[Pinellas]] Peninsula, so that its climate is moderated by its proximity to the [[Gulf of Mexico]] and Tampa Bay. In the winter, temperatures are warmer on the Pinellas Peninsula than on mainland Florida. Winters are generally drier than the rest of the year. Most of the rainfall comes in the summer, when the sea breeze carries moisture from the Gulf inland. Largo's record low is {{convert|22|F}}, recorded on December 13, 1962. Largo's record high is {{convert|100|F}}, recorded on July 5, 1995.
Largo is located on the [[Pinellas]] Peninsula, so that its climate is moderated by its proximity to the [[Gulf of Mexico]] and Tampa Bay. In the winter, temperatures are warmer on the Pinellas Peninsula than on mainland Florida. Winters are generally drier than the rest of the year. According to the [[Köppen climate classification]], the City of Largo has a [[humid subtropical climate]] zone (''Cfa'').
Most of the rainfall comes in the summer, when the sea breeze carries moisture from the Gulf inland. Largo's record low is {{convert|22|F}}, recorded on December 13, 1962. Largo's record high is {{convert|100|F}}, recorded on July 5, 1995.


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
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[[Image:Largo, Florida 2000 Census Median Household Income.gif|thumb|300px|Household income 2000 census data for Largo, Florida and environs. Area shown exceeds the corporate limits of the City of Largo.]]
[[Image:Largo, Florida 2000 Census Median Household Income.gif|thumb|300px|Household income 2000 census data for Largo, Florida and environs. Area shown exceeds the corporate limits of the City of Largo.]]


===2020 census===
As of the [[census]] of 2010, there were 77, 648 people, 38,022 households, and 19,573 families residing in the city. The population density was {{convert|4,945.7|PD/sqmi|PD/km2|sp=us|adj=off}}. There were 46,859 housing units at an average density of {{convert|2,984.6|/sqmi|/km2|sp=us|adj=off}}. The racial makeup of the city was 86.3% [[White (U.S. Census)|White]], 5.6% [[African American (U.S. Census)|African American]], 0.3% [[Native American (U.S. Census)|Native American]], 2.7% [[Asian (U.S. Census)|Asian]], 0.2% [[Pacific Islander (U.S. Census)|Pacific Islander]], 2.6% from [[Race (United States Census)|other races]], and 2.4% from two or more races. 9.0% of the population is [[Hispanic (U.S. Census)|Hispanic]] or [[Latino (U.S. Census)|Latino]] of any race.
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"
|+'''Largo, Florida – Racial and ethnic composition'''<br><small>{{nobold|''Note: the US Census treats Hispanic/Latino as an ethnic category. This table excludes Latinos from the racial categories and assigns them to a separate category. Hispanics/Latinos may be of any race.''}}</small>
!Race / Ethnicity <small>(''NH = Non-Hispanic'')</small>
!Pop 2000<ref name=2000CensusP004>{{Cite web|title=P004 Hispanic or Latino, and Not Hispanic or Latino by Race – 2000: DEC Summary File 1 – Largo city, Florida|url=https://data.census.gov/table/DECENNIALSF12000.P004?g=160XX00US1239425|website=[[United States Census Bureau]]}}</ref>
!Pop 2010<ref name=2010CensusP2>{{Cite web|title=P2: Hispanic or Latino, and Not Hispanic or Latino by Race – 2010: DEC Redistricting Data (PL 94-171) – Largo city, Florida |url=https://data.census.gov/table?q=p2&g=160XX00US1239425&tid=DECENNIALPL2010.P2|publisher=[[United States Census Bureau ]]|access-date=}}</ref>
!{{partial|Pop 2020}}<ref name=2020CensusP2>{{Cite web|title=P2: Hispanic or Latino, and Not Hispanic or Latino by Race – 2020: DEC Redistricting Data (PL 94-171) – Largo city, Florida|url=https://data.census.gov/cedsci/table?q=p2&g=160XX00US1239425&tid=DECENNIALPL2020.P2|publisher=[[United States Census Bureau ]]|access-date=}}</ref>
!% 2000
!% 2010
!{{partial|% 2020}}
|-
|[[Non-Hispanic or Latino whites|White]] (NH)
|62,359
|62,703
|style='background: #ffffe6; |59,815
|89.89%
|80.75%
|style='background: #ffffe6; |72.52%
|-
|[[Non-Hispanic or Latino African Americans|Black or African American]] (NH)
|1,806
|4,083
|style='background: #ffffe6; |5,137
|2.60%
|5.26%
|style='background: #ffffe6; |6.23%
|-
|[[Native Americans in the United States|Native American]] or [[Alaska Native]] (NH)
|202
|190
|style='background: #ffffe6; |185
|0.29%
|0.24%
|style='background: #ffffe6; |0.22%
|-
|[[Asian Americans|Asian]] (NH)
|1,161
|2,043
|style='background: #ffffe6; |2,641
|1.67%
|2.63%
|style='background: #ffffe6; |3.20%
|-
|[[Pacific Islander Americans|Pacific Islander]] or [[Native Hawaiian]] (NH)
|55
|116
|style='background: #ffffe6; |105
|0.08%
|0.15%
|style='background: #ffffe6; |0.13%
|-
|[[Other races (U.S. Census)|Some other race]] (NH)
|85
|158
|style='background: #ffffe6; |459
|0.12%
|0.20%
|style='background: #ffffe6; |0.56%
|-
|[[Multiracial Americans|Mixed race or Multiracial]] (NH)
|801
|1,373
|style='background: #ffffe6; |3,612
|1.15%
|1.77%
|style='background: #ffffe6; |4.38%
|-
|[[Hispanic and Latino Americans|Hispanic or Latino]] (any race)
|2,902
|6,982
|style='background: #ffffe6; |10,531
|4.18%
|8.99%
|style='background: #ffffe6; |12.77%
|-
|'''Total'''
|'''69,371'''
|'''77,648'''
|style='background: #ffffe6; |'''82,485'''
|'''100.00%'''
|'''100.00%'''
|style='background: #ffffe6; |'''100.00%'''
|-
|}

As of the [[2020 United States census]], there were 82,485 people, 36,926 households, and 18,727 families residing in the city.<ref>{{Cite web|title=S1101 HOUSEHOLDS AND FAMILIES - 2020: Largo city, Florida|url=https://data.census.gov/table?q=Largo+city;+Florida+&tid=ACSST5Y2020.S1101|website=[[United States Census Bureau]]}}</ref>

As of the [[2010 United States census]], there were 77,648 people, 36,806 households, and 19,575 families residing in the city.<ref>{{Cite web|title=S1101 HOUSEHOLDS AND FAMILIES - 2010: Largo city, Florida|url=https://data.census.gov/table?q=Largo+city;+Florida+&tid=ACSST5Y2010.S1101|website=[[United States Census Bureau]]}}</ref>

In 2010, there were 36,806 households, out of which 16.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 36.2% were married couples living together, 11.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 48.5% were non-families. 39.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.02 and the average family size was 2.67.


There were 38,022 households, out of which 16.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 36.2% were married couples living together, 11.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 48.5% were non-families. 39.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.02 and the average family size was 2.67.
In 2010, in the city, the population was spread out, with 15.6% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 22.6% from 25 to 44, 28.6% from 45 to 64, and 26.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 48.2 years.


===2000 census===
In the city, the population was spread out, with 15.6% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 22.6% from 25 to 44, 28.6% from 45 to 64, and 26.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 48.2 years.


As of the [[census]]<ref name="GR2" /> of 2000, there were 69,371 people, 34,041 households, and 18,382 families residing in the city. The population density was {{convert|4,429.1|PD/sqmi|PD/km2|sp=us|adj=off}}. There were 40,261 housing units at an average density of {{convert|2,570.5|/sqmi|/km2|sp=us|adj=off}}. The racial makeup of the city was 92.71% [[White (U.S. Census)|White]], 2.69% [[African American (U.S. Census)|African American]], 0.34% [[Native American (U.S. Census)|Native American]], 1.69% [[Asian (U.S. Census)|Asian]], 0.08% [[Pacific Islander (U.S. Census)|Pacific Islander]], 0.99% from [[Race (United States Census)|other races]], and 1.49% from two or more races. 4.18% of the population is [[Hispanic (U.S. Census)|Hispanic]] or [[Latino (U.S. Census)|Latino]] of any race.
As of the [[census]]<ref name="GR2" /> of 2000, there were 69,371 people, 34,041 households, and 18,382 families residing in the city. The population density was {{convert|4,429.1|PD/sqmi|PD/km2|sp=us|adj=off}}. There were 40,261 housing units at an average density of {{convert|2,570.5|/sqmi|/km2|sp=us|adj=off}}. The racial makeup of the city was 92.71% [[White (U.S. Census)|White]], 2.69% [[African American (U.S. Census)|African American]], 0.34% [[Native American (U.S. Census)|Native American]], 1.69% [[Asian (U.S. Census)|Asian]], 0.08% [[Pacific Islander (U.S. Census)|Pacific Islander]], 0.99% from [[Race (United States Census)|other races]], and 1.49% from two or more races. 4.18% of the population is [[Hispanic (U.S. Census)|Hispanic]] or [[Latino (U.S. Census)|Latino]] of any race.


There were 34,041 households, out of which 17.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.8% were married couples living together, 9.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 46.0% were non-families. 38.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.99 and the average family size was 2.59.
In 2000, there were 34,041 households, out of which 17.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.8% were married couples living together, 9.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 46.0% were non-families. 38.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.99 and the average family size was 2.59.


In the city, the population was spread out, with 15.6% under the age of 18, 6.1% from 18 to 24, 25.1% from 25 to 44, 23.0% from 45 to 64, and 30.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 48 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.9 males.
In 2000, in the city, the population was spread out, with 15.6% under the age of 18, 6.1% from 18 to 24, 25.1% from 25 to 44, 23.0% from 45 to 64, and 30.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 48 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.9 males.


The median income for a household in the city was $32,217, and the median income for a family was $41,523. Males had a median income of $30,186 versus $24,477 for females. The [[per capita income]] for the city was $20,848. About 6.0% of families and 9.1% of the population were below the [[poverty line]], including 12.0% of those under age 18 and 8.6% of those age 65 or over.
As of 2000, the median income for a household in the city was $32,217, and the median income for a family was $41,523. Males had a median income of $30,186 versus $24,477 for females. The [[per capita income]] for the city was $20,848. About 6.0% of families and 9.1% of the population were below the [[poverty line]], including 12.0% of those under age 18 and 8.6% of those age 65 or over.


== Economy ==
== Economy ==
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|1
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|Pinellas County Sheriffs Office
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|2,862
|2,862
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|Largo Medical Center
|[[Largo Medical Center]]
|1,500
|1,500
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|SCC Soft Computer Inc
|SCC Soft Computer Inc.
|800
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|Publix Supermarkets Inc
|[[Publix|Publix Super Markets Inc.]]
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|Pinellas County Schools Administration Building
|[[Pinellas County Schools]] Administration Building
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===Public library===
===Public library===


The [[Largo Public Library]] opened in 1916 in the basement of the Town Hall, with a collection of about 560 books.<ref>https://scholarcommons.usf.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1088&context=flstud_pub {{Bare URL PDF|date=March 2022}}</ref> In 1968, a new location was opened to house 14,000 titles. In 1977, a new library was erected on {{convert|5|acre|ha|0}} of donated land. Following an expansion in 1989, the library held 250,000 items. Largo Public Library's current building was built in 2005.<ref>{{cite web |title=History of the Library |url=https://www.largopubliclibrary.org/about/library_history.php |website=Largo Public Library |access-date=13 April 2020}}</ref>
The [[Largo Public Library]] opened in 1916 in the basement of the Town Hall, with a collection of about 560 books.<ref>https://scholarcommons.usf.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1088&context=flstud_pub {{Dead link|date=September 2023|fix-attempted=yes}}</ref> In 1968, a new location was opened to house 14,000 titles. In 1977, a new library was erected on {{convert|5|acre|ha|0}} of donated land. Following an expansion in 1989, the library held 250,000 items. Largo Public Library's current building was built in 2005.<ref>{{cite web |title=History of the Library |url=https://www.largopubliclibrary.org/about/library_history.php |website=Largo Public Library |access-date=13 April 2020}}</ref>


==Government ==
==Government ==
[[File:Largo, florida city hall 02.jpg|thumb|left|Largo City Hall]]The City of Largo is governed by a city commission of seven people elected at large to staggered, four-year terms. The mayor acts as a member and presiding officer of the commission.<ref name="Commission">{{cite web |url=http://www.largo.com/department/?fDD=2-0 |title=Commission Dept. |publisher=City of Largo |access-date=22 June 2012}}</ref> The commission's role encompasses the setting of city policy, exercising those duties imposed by the charter and law. In so doing, the city commission executes the city's powers by the passage of resolutions and ordinances. The commission appoints and directs the city manager and approves the city manager's appointments for city attorney, assistant city manager, and city clerk.
[[File:Largo, florida city hall 02.jpg|thumb|left|Largo City Hall]]The City of Largo is governed by a city commission of seven people elected at large to staggered four-year terms. The mayor acts as a member and presiding officer of the commission.<ref name="Commission">{{cite web |url=http://www.largo.com/department/?fDD=2-0 |title=Commission Dept. |publisher=City of Largo |access-date=22 June 2012}}</ref> The commission's role encompasses the setting of city policy, exercising those duties imposed by the charter and law. In so doing, the city commission executes the city's powers by the passage of resolutions and ordinances. The commission appoints and directs the city manager and approves the city manager's appointments for city attorney, assistant city manager, and city clerk.


The city manager directs the administration in governing and providing municipal services to Largo. The Administration Department includes the City Manager's Office, the City Attorney's Office, the City Clerk's Office, the Communications and Marketing Office, the Office of Management and Budget, and the City Attorney.<ref name="Budget">{{cite web |url=http://www.largo.com/department/division.php?fDD=3-84 |title=Budget Dept. |publisher=City of LArgo |access-date=22 June 2012}}</ref>
The city manager directs the administration in governing and providing municipal services to Largo. The Administration Department includes the City Manager's Office, the City Attorney's Office, the City Clerk's Office, the Communications and Marketing Office, the Office of Management and Budget, and the City Attorney.<ref name="Budget">{{cite web |title=Budget Dept. |url=http://www.largo.com/department/division.php?fDD=3-84 |access-date=22 June 2012 |publisher=City of Largo}}</ref>


The city manager is appointed by and answerable to the city commission as a whole. The City of Largo is unique in that a supermajority of commissioners is required to terminate the city manager. The city manager appoints and supervises all department directors, and with commission approval, appoints the assistant city manager, the city clerk, and the city attorney.
The city manager is appointed by and answerable to the city commission as a whole. The City of Largo is unique in that a supermajority of commissioners is required to terminate the city manager. The city manager appoints and supervises all department directors, and with commission approval, appoints the assistant city manager, the city clerk, and the city attorney.
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==Education==
==Education==


[[Pinellas County Schools]] operates the city's public K–12 schools. The school district's administrative headquarters are located in Largo.<ref>"[https://www.pcsb.org/ Home]." ([https://web.archive.org/web/20010516030500/http://www.pcsb.org/ Archive]) [[Pinellas County Schools]]. Retrieved on August 28, 2011. "301 Fourth St. SW Largo, FL 33770"</ref> Largo's high school students attend [[Largo High School (Florida)|Largo High School]]; the school's mascot is the razorback boar. The school's athletic teams are called the Packers because of the influence of the citrus-packing industry on the town, most notably the packing plant of Senator John Taylor.
[[Pinellas County Schools]] operates the city's public K–12 schools. The school district's administrative headquarters are located in Largo.<ref>"[https://www.pcsb.org/ Home]." ([https://web.archive.org/web/20010516030500/http://www.pcsb.org/ Archive]) [[Pinellas County Schools]]. Retrieved on August 28, 2011. "301 Fourth St. SW Largo, FL 33770"</ref> The city's high school students attend [[Largo High School (Florida)|Largo High School]]. The school mascot is the razorback boar, and the school athletic teams are called the Packers because of the influence of the citrus-packing industry on the town, most notably the packing plant of Senator John Taylor.


Largo's middle school students attend Largo Middle School.
Largo middle school students attend Largo Middle School.


[[Schiller International University]]'s main campus is in Largo.<ref>"[http://www.schiller.edu/ Home]." [[Schiller International University]]. Retrieved on August 28, 2011. "Main Campus 8560 Ulmerton Road Largo, Florida 33771 "</ref>
The main campus of [[Schiller International University]] is in Largo.<ref>"[http://www.schiller.edu/ Home]." [[Schiller International University]]. Retrieved on August 28, 2011. "Main Campus 8560 Ulmerton Road Largo, Florida 33771 "</ref>


St. Patrick Catholic School has a campus on Trotter Road in Largo, providing a private education for grades Pre-K–8. Other private schools in the city include [[Veritas Academy]].
St. Patrick Catholic School has a campus on Trotter Road in Largo, providing a private education for grades Pre-K–8. Other private schools in the city include [[Veritas Academy (Florida)|Veritas Academy]].


==Infrastructure==
==Infrastructure==
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<!-- [[Image:Stpete clearwater airport pmr01.jpg|thumb|200px|Control tower, St. Petersburg-Clearwater Airport]] -->
<!-- [[Image:Stpete clearwater airport pmr01.jpg|thumb|200px|Control tower, St. Petersburg-Clearwater Airport]] -->
Largo is served by two international airports, [[Tampa International Airport]] and [[St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport|St. Petersburg–Clearwater International Airport]]. St. Petersburg–Clearwater Airport is located about {{convert|6|mi}} east of downtown. Tampa International Airport is located about {{convert|20|mi}} east of downtown on the other side of Tampa Bay. The [[Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority]] provides bus service throughout Pinellas County and express service to Tampa. [[Florida State Road 686|State Roads 686]] and [[Florida State Road 688|688]] pass through Largo to connect with [[Interstate 275 (Florida)|Interstate 275]], which connects with [[Interstate 75 in Florida|I-75]]. [[U.S. Route 19 in Florida|US 19]] and [[U.S. Route 19 Alternate (St. Petersburg – Holiday, Florida)|US 19 Alternate]] run north-to-south through Largo. A grid of county roads connects Largo with its neighbors.
Largo is served by two international airports, [[Tampa International Airport]] and [[St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport|St. Petersburg–Clearwater International Airport]]. St. Petersburg–Clearwater Airport is located about {{convert|6|mi}} east of downtown. Tampa International Airport is located about {{convert|20|mi}} east of downtown on the other side of Tampa Bay. The [[Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority]] provides bus service throughout Pinellas County and express service to Tampa. [[Florida State Road 686|State Roads 686]] and [[Florida State Road 688|688]] pass through Largo to connect with [[Interstate 275 (Florida)|Interstate 275]], which connects with [[Interstate 75 in Florida|I-75]]. [[U.S. Route 19 in Florida|US 19]] and [[U.S. Route 19 Alternate (St. Petersburg – Holiday, Florida)|US 19 Alternate]] run north–south through Largo. A grid of county roads connects Largo with its neighbors.


==Notable people==
==Notable people==
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* [[Beth Bauer]], former [[LPGA]] golfer
* [[Beth Bauer]], former [[LPGA]] golfer
* [[Michael Bradley (golfer)|Michael Bradley]], current [[Professional Golfers' Association of America|PGA]] golfer
* [[Michael Bradley (golfer)|Michael Bradley]], current [[Professional Golfers' Association of America|PGA]] golfer
* [[Irene Cara]] (1959–2022), singer and actress; lived and died in Largo<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cohen |first=Matt |date=February 10, 2023 |title=Irene Cara, star of ‘Flashdance’ and ‘Fame,’ died of natural causes, local officials say |url=https://www.tampabay.com/news/pinellas/2023/02/10/irene-cara-flashdance-fame-tampa-bay-death-cause-medical-examiner/ |access-date=2023-09-12 |website=Tampa Bay Times |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Irene Cara]], American Singer
* [[Al Conover]], former [[American football]] player and coach
* [[Al Conover]], former [[American football]] player and coach
* [[Sarah Mavis Dabbs]], [[All-American Girls Professional Baseball League]] player
* [[Sarah Mavis Dabbs]], [[All-American Girls Professional Baseball League]] player
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* [[Brittney McConn]], retired [[figure skater]]
* [[Brittney McConn]], retired [[figure skater]]
* [[Casey Moore]], current [[Nevada Wolf Pack]] running backs coach
* [[Casey Moore]], current [[Nevada Wolf Pack]] running backs coach
* [[Lanny Poffo]], professional wrestler.
* [[Lanny Poffo]], professional wrestler
* [[Leonard T. Schroeder]], retired U.S. Army colonel, first soldier ashore on D-Day in World War II
* [[Leonard T. Schroeder]], retired U.S. Army colonel, first American soldier ashore on D-Day in World War II
* [[John Stansel Taylor]], Florida state senator
* [[John Stansel Taylor]], Florida state senator
* [[Bill Young (Florida politician)|Bill Young]], U.S. Congressman<ref>{{cite book |last1=Barone |first1=Michael |author-link1=Michael Barone (pundit) |last2=Ujifusa |first2=Grant |title=[[The Almanac of American Politics|The Almanac of American Politics 1988]]|work=[[National Journal]] |year=1987 |page=257}}</ref>
* [[Bill Young (Florida politician)|Bill Young]], U.S. Congressman<ref>{{cite book |last1=Barone |first1=Michael |title=[[The Almanac of American Politics|The Almanac of American Politics 1988]] |last2=Ujifusa |first2=Grant |publisher=[[National Journal]] |year=1987 |page=257 |author-link1=Michael Barone (pundit)}}</ref>
* [[Anastasija Zolotic]], First American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in Taekwondo
* [[Anastasija Zolotic]], first American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in Taekwondo


==Sister cities==
==Sister cities==
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{{Wikivoyage|Largo (Florida)}}
{{Wikivoyage|Largo (Florida)}}
* [http://www.largo.com/ City of Largo official website]
* [http://www.largo.com/ City of Largo official website]
* [http://www.sptimes.com/2004/06/27/Northpinellas/How_Largo_got_its_nam.shtml "How Largo got its name, maybe"], ''St. Petersburg Times''
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20110202181447/http://www.largohistory.org/ Largo Area Historical Society]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20110202181447/http://www.largohistory.org/ Largo Area Historical Society]


Latest revision as of 06:54, 13 August 2024

This article is about the city in the Tampa Bay area. Not to be confused with Key Largo, Florida.

Largo, Florida
City
Largo Public Library
Largo Public Library
Flag of Largo, Florida
Flag
Nickname: 
The City of Progress
Location in Pinellas County and the state of Florida
Location in Pinellas County and the state of Florida
Coordinates: 27°54′34″N 82°47′14″W / 27.90944°N 82.78722°W / 27.90944; -82.78722
CountryUnited States
StateFlorida
CountyPinellas
IncorporatedJune 6, 1905
Government
 • TypeCommission–Manager
 • MayorWoody Brown
 • CommissionersMichael Smith,
Curtis Holmes,
Eric Gerard,
Jamie Robinson,
Donna Holck, and
Chris Johnson
 • City ManagerJohn Curp
 • City ClerkDiane L. Bruner
 • City AttorneyAlan S. Zimmet
Area
[1]
 • Total
19.59 sq mi (50.73 km2)
 • Land18.60 sq mi (48.17 km2)
 • Water0.99 sq mi (2.56 km2)
Elevation
[2]
33 ft (10 m)
Population
 (2020)
 • Total
82,485
 • Density4,435.39/sq mi (1,712.52/km2)
Time zoneUTC-5 (EST)
 • Summer (DST)UTC-4 (EDT)
ZIP code(s)
33770-33779
Area code727
FIPS code12-39425[3]
GNIS feature ID285346[2]
Websitewww.largo.com

Largo is the third largest city in Pinellas County, Florida, United States, as well as the fourth largest in the Tampa Bay area. As of the 2020 Census, the city had a population of 82,485,[4] up from 77,648 in 2010.

Largo was first incorporated in 1905. In 1913, it became the first municipality in Pinellas County to adopt a council-manager government. It switched back and forth between "town" and "city" a few times, and became a city again in 1974. It was an exporter of agricultural products until the 1960s population growth began to transform it into a bedroom community. From 1905 to 2010, Largo grew in area from 9⁄16 of a square mile (1.5 km2) to about 19 square miles (48 km2), and in population from about 300 people to more than 70,000. Largo began as a rural farming community and became the third largest city in Florida's most densely populated county.

Largo is a sister city to Tosayamada, Kōchi, Japan, and has been named a National Arbor Day Tree City for 35 years in a row as of 2023.[5]

History

[edit]

Beginnings of the area

[edit]
For a chronological guide, see Timeline of Largo, Florida history.

The native inhabitants of the Largo area were the Tocobaga Indians. They are also known as the Safety Harbor culture from their archeological remains near present-day Safety Harbor. The Spanish came to Florida in the 16th century. In the 18th century, the Tocobaga had been virtually destroyed after years of exposure to European diseases, Spanish settlement efforts and warfare between Spain and England. The Largo area, like the rest of Pinellas County, was largely deserted. In 1763, Spain transferred sovereignty of Florida to the United Kingdom. In 1783, Florida fell to Spanish sovereignty once again until it was transferred to the United States in 1821. By 1845, a surveyor recorded the location of Lake Tolulu, apparently south of present-day East Bay Drive and roughly where the Largo Central Park Nature Preserve is today.

Boardwalk across wetlands in Largo Central Park Nature Preserve, the bed of the former Lake Largo

Later homesteaders to the Largo area included the families of James and Daniel McMullen, around 1852. The McMullens and other settlers raised cattle, grew citrus and vegetables and fished. During the Civil War, many Largo area residents fought for the Confederate States of America. James and Daniel McMullen were members of the "Cow Cavalry" driving Florida cattle to Georgia and the Carolinas to help sustain the war effort. Other area residents served on blockade runners. Still others left the area to serve in the Confederacy's armies. After the war, Largo area residents returned to farming, ranching, and raising citrus. The Orange Belt Railway reached the area in 1888. By this time Lake Tolulu had been renamed Lake Largo,[6] and residents of the community west of the lake adopted the name "Largo".

Incorporation to Great Depression

[edit]
Map of Largo (1925)

The Town of Largo was incorporated in 1905. Lake Largo was drained in 1916 to make way for growth and development. Between 1910 and 1930, Largo's population increased by about 500%. Then and for decades afterwards, Largo's economy was based on agriculture—citrus groves, cattle ranches, and hog farms, as well as turpentine stills and sawmills. Largo is best remembered as "Citrus City", from the time it was a citrus packing, canning and shipping center.

The Great Depression was difficult for Largo, which lacked the financial resources to meet its obligations. Largo reverted to its 1913 boundaries and charter, after which the population dropped by approximately 30%. The debt incurred from the issuance of bonds in the late 1920s was not paid off until after World War II.

Rapid growth

[edit]
Taylor Lake Park is a county park in Largo on 8th Avenue SW.

The years after World War II saw rapid growth as people began moving into the area and Largo annexed surrounding lands. During the nuclear arms race, electronics companies like General Electric and Honeywell boosted the economy. The population increased to about 5,000 in 1960, to about 20,000 in 1970, and to about 70,000 in 2005. Largo's original area was 9⁄16 of a square mile (1.5 km2). By 1982, Largo had grown to about 13 square miles (34 km2) and to about 19 square miles (48 km2) by 2010. The groves, farms, ranches and forests have mostly given way to homes and shopping centers and light industry. The increased population resulted in a need for increased city services. All departments saw rapid growth and improvements in quality, especially under the leadership of the late Mayor Thom Feaster. In 1995, Largo Central Park opened on the site of the old Pinellas County Fairgrounds. It is the setting for the Largo Central Park Performing Arts Center and is located across the street from the Largo Public Library.[7]

In the 2006 commission elections, Largo achieved two milestones furthering its former motto of "City of Progress". Democrat Patricia Gerard became the city's first female mayor. She narrowly defeated incumbent mayor Robert E. Jackson in a bitterly contested race. (Dr. Jackson had been the longest-serving elected Democrat in Pinellas County.) The voters' choice between these two candidates decided the major issue of the election: that the city would not revert to a mayor-dominated process of governance in lieu of the continuing role for the seven-member commission acting as non-partisans—that is, deliberating independently and equally with the mayor and deciding democratically the political issues of the city.

Also, the city elected its first commissioner of African-American descent, Rodney J. Woods, in a landslide against a former commissioner.

On August 24, 2009, the iconic Largo clock tower, which was constructed shortly after completion of Largo Central Park, was demolished. City officials made the decision as the tower had fallen into disrepair. The area surrounding the clock tower was replaced with a small garden area in order to incorporate the area into Largo Central Park.[8][9][10]

Geography

[edit]

Largo is located at 27°54′30″N 82°46′40″W / 27.90833°N 82.77778°W / 27.90833; -82.77778 (27.908355, −82.777791).[11] It is centrally located in Pinellas County, touching the Intracoastal Waterway to the southwest and Tampa Bay to the northeast. Clearwater is Largo's neighbor to the north. To the northwest are the towns of Belleair and Belleair Bluffs. The city of Pinellas Park lies south of eastern Largo. Seminole lies south of western Largo. The unincorporated community of Ridgecrest forms a large enclave between western and central Largo. A number of county enclaves pepper the City of Largo.

A Largo street floods after Tropical Storm Debby in 2012.

In 2010, Largo's total area was 18.6 square miles (48.1 km2), of which 17.6 square miles (45.6 km2) was land and 0.97 square miles (2.5 km2), or 5.22%, was water.[12] As of 2004, there were 651 acres (2.6 km2) of park lands. The city's lowest elevation is sea level. At its highest, the city's elevation is about 69 feet (21 m). Largo is dotted with a number of lakes, the largest of which is Taylor Lake at 53 acres (210,000 m2). Allen's Creek drains northeast Largo, flowing into Tampa Bay. McKay Creek flows through southwest Largo into the Intracoastal Waterway. The McKay Creek basin is prone to flooding.

Climate

[edit]

Largo is located on the Pinellas Peninsula, so that its climate is moderated by its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and Tampa Bay. In the winter, temperatures are warmer on the Pinellas Peninsula than on mainland Florida. Winters are generally drier than the rest of the year. According to the Köppen climate classification, the City of Largo has a humid subtropical climate zone (Cfa).

Most of the rainfall comes in the summer, when the sea breeze carries moisture from the Gulf inland. Largo's record low is 22 °F (−6 °C), recorded on December 13, 1962. Largo's record high is 100 °F (38 °C), recorded on July 5, 1995.

Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Average high [°F] 69 71 75 80 86 89 90 90 88 83 77 71 80
Average low temperature [°F] 54 55 60 65 71 75 77 77 76 70 63 56 66
Rainfall (inches) 2.76 2.87 3.29 1.92 2.80 6.09 6.72 8.26 7.59 2.64 2.04 2.60 49.58

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
CensusPop.Note%±
1910291—
1920599105.8%
19301,429138.6%
19401,031−27.9%
19501,54750.0%
19605,302242.7%
197024,230357.0%
198057,958139.2%
199065,67413.3%
200069,3715.6%
201077,64811.9%
202082,4856.2%
U.S. Decennial Census[13]
Household income 2000 census data for Largo, Florida and environs. Area shown exceeds the corporate limits of the City of Largo.

2020 census

[edit]
Largo, Florida – Racial and ethnic composition
Note: the US Census treats Hispanic/Latino as an ethnic category. This table excludes Latinos from the racial categories and assigns them to a separate category. Hispanics/Latinos may be of any race.
Race / Ethnicity (NH = Non-Hispanic) Pop 2000[14] Pop 2010[15] Pop 2020[16] % 2000 % 2010 % 2020
White (NH) 62,359 62,703 59,815 89.89% 80.75% 72.52%
Black or African American (NH) 1,806 4,083 5,137 2.60% 5.26% 6.23%
Native American or Alaska Native (NH) 202 190 185 0.29% 0.24% 0.22%
Asian (NH) 1,161 2,043 2,641 1.67% 2.63% 3.20%
Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiian (NH) 55 116 105 0.08% 0.15% 0.13%
Some other race (NH) 85 158 459 0.12% 0.20% 0.56%
Mixed race or Multiracial (NH) 801 1,373 3,612 1.15% 1.77% 4.38%
Hispanic or Latino (any race) 2,902 6,982 10,531 4.18% 8.99% 12.77%
Total 69,371 77,648 82,485 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%

As of the 2020 United States census, there were 82,485 people, 36,926 households, and 18,727 families residing in the city.[17]

As of the 2010 United States census, there were 77,648 people, 36,806 households, and 19,575 families residing in the city.[18]

In 2010, there were 36,806 households, out of which 16.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 36.2% were married couples living together, 11.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 48.5% were non-families. 39.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.02 and the average family size was 2.67.

In 2010, in the city, the population was spread out, with 15.6% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 22.6% from 25 to 44, 28.6% from 45 to 64, and 26.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 48.2 years.

2000 census

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As of the census[3] of 2000, there were 69,371 people, 34,041 households, and 18,382 families residing in the city. The population density was 4,429.1 inhabitants per square mile (1,710.1/km2). There were 40,261 housing units at an average density of 2,570.5 per square mile (992.5/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 92.71% White, 2.69% African American, 0.34% Native American, 1.69% Asian, 0.08% Pacific Islander, 0.99% from other races, and 1.49% from two or more races. 4.18% of the population is Hispanic or Latino of any race.

In 2000, there were 34,041 households, out of which 17.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.8% were married couples living together, 9.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 46.0% were non-families. 38.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.99 and the average family size was 2.59.

In 2000, in the city, the population was spread out, with 15.6% under the age of 18, 6.1% from 18 to 24, 25.1% from 25 to 44, 23.0% from 45 to 64, and 30.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 48 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.9 males.

As of 2000, the median income for a household in the city was $32,217, and the median income for a family was $41,523. Males had a median income of $30,186 versus $24,477 for females. The per capita income for the city was $20,848. About 6.0% of families and 9.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 12.0% of those under age 18 and 8.6% of those age 65 or over.

Economy

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The decline of agriculture with population growth beginning in the 1960s largely transformed Largo into a bedroom community. Electronics, though important, could not fill the gap left by agriculture. Other light manufacturers fill various niches. The vast majority of jobs in Largo are in services and in retail sales.

The healthcare industry continues to grow to meet the needs of an aging population. Hospitals are among the area's strongest employers. Largo Medical Center, owned by the Hospital Corporation of America (HCA), was established in 1978; it consists of two separate campuses: its original campus near downtown Largo, and the former Sun Coast Hospital on Indian Rocks Road, which was renamed Largo Medical Center-Indian Rocks Campus after its acquisition by HCA.

At one time Largo was the headquarters of Eckerd Corporation.[19]

Top employers

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According to the city's 2018 Community Development Division, the top employers in the city are:

# Employer No. of Employees
1 Pinellas County Sheriff's Office 2,862
2 Tech Data 2,012
3 Largo Medical Center 1,500
4 Florida Suncoast Hospice 1,100
5 City of Largo 900
6 SCC Soft Computer Inc. 800
7 Palms of Largo 770
8 Publix Super Markets Inc. 644
9 Pinellas County Schools Administration Building 500
10 Diagnostic Clinic Medical Group 428

Arts and culture

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Public library

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The Largo Public Library opened in 1916 in the basement of the Town Hall, with a collection of about 560 books.[20] In 1968, a new location was opened to house 14,000 titles. In 1977, a new library was erected on 5 acres (2 ha) of donated land. Following an expansion in 1989, the library held 250,000 items. Largo Public Library's current building was built in 2005.[21]

Government

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Largo City Hall

The City of Largo is governed by a city commission of seven people elected at large to staggered four-year terms. The mayor acts as a member and presiding officer of the commission.[22] The commission's role encompasses the setting of city policy, exercising those duties imposed by the charter and law. In so doing, the city commission executes the city's powers by the passage of resolutions and ordinances. The commission appoints and directs the city manager and approves the city manager's appointments for city attorney, assistant city manager, and city clerk.

The city manager directs the administration in governing and providing municipal services to Largo. The Administration Department includes the City Manager's Office, the City Attorney's Office, the City Clerk's Office, the Communications and Marketing Office, the Office of Management and Budget, and the City Attorney.[23]

The city manager is appointed by and answerable to the city commission as a whole. The City of Largo is unique in that a supermajority of commissioners is required to terminate the city manager. The city manager appoints and supervises all department directors, and with commission approval, appoints the assistant city manager, the city clerk, and the city attorney.

Education

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Pinellas County Schools operates the city's public K–12 schools. The school district's administrative headquarters are located in Largo.[24] The city's high school students attend Largo High School. The school mascot is the razorback boar, and the school athletic teams are called the Packers because of the influence of the citrus-packing industry on the town, most notably the packing plant of Senator John Taylor.

Largo middle school students attend Largo Middle School.

The main campus of Schiller International University is in Largo.[25]

St. Patrick Catholic School has a campus on Trotter Road in Largo, providing a private education for grades Pre-K–8. Other private schools in the city include Veritas Academy.

Infrastructure

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Transportation

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Largo is served by two international airports, Tampa International Airport and St. Petersburg–Clearwater International Airport. St. Petersburg–Clearwater Airport is located about 6 miles (9.7 km) east of downtown. Tampa International Airport is located about 20 miles (32 km) east of downtown on the other side of Tampa Bay. The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority provides bus service throughout Pinellas County and express service to Tampa. State Roads 686 and 688 pass through Largo to connect with Interstate 275, which connects with I-75. US 19 and US 19 Alternate run north–south through Largo. A grid of county roads connects Largo with its neighbors.

Notable people

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Sister cities

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Stone plaque in Largo Central Park commemorating the relationship between Largo and Kami (dedicated February 5, 2010)

See also

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Wikimedia Commons has media related to Largo.

References

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  1. ^ "2020 U.S. Gazetteer Files". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved October 31, 2021.
  2. ^ a b "US Board on Geographic Names". United States Geological Survey. October 25, 2007. Retrieved January 31, 2008.
  3. ^ a b "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved January 31, 2008.
  4. ^ "Geography Profile - Largo city, Florida". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved January 17, 2024.
  5. ^ "Tree City USA at arborday.org". www.arborday.org. Retrieved March 4, 2022.
  6. ^ Schulte, Eileen (June 27, 2004). "How Largo got its name, maybe". St. Petersburg Times. Archived from the original on September 25, 2004.
  7. ^ Schnur, James Anthony (2011). Largo. Images of America. Arcadia Publishing. p. 124. ISBN 978-1531654535.
  8. ^ "Clock's new face". Tampa Bay Times. St. Petersburg, Florida. March 28, 2008. p. 5. Retrieved March 13, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
  9. ^ Helfand, Lorri (May 3, 2009). "Landmark park to get facelift". Tampa Bay Times. St. Petersburg, Florida. p. 3. Retrieved March 13, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
  10. ^ "Palms are in place". Tampa Bay Times. St. Petersburg, Florida. December 27, 2009. p. 3. Retrieved March 13, 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
  11. ^ "US Gazetteer files: 2010, 2000, and 1990". United States Census Bureau. February 12, 2011. Retrieved April 23, 2011.
  12. ^ "Geographic Identifiers: 2010 Demographic Profile Data (G001): Largo city, Florida". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved May 7, 2012.
  13. ^ "Census of Population and Housing". Census.gov. Retrieved June 4, 2015.
  14. ^ "P004 Hispanic or Latino, and Not Hispanic or Latino by Race – 2000: DEC Summary File 1 – Largo city, Florida". United States Census Bureau.
  15. ^ "P2: Hispanic or Latino, and Not Hispanic or Latino by Race – 2010: DEC Redistricting Data (PL 94-171) – Largo city, Florida". United States Census Bureau .
  16. ^ "P2: Hispanic or Latino, and Not Hispanic or Latino by Race – 2020: DEC Redistricting Data (PL 94-171) – Largo city, Florida". United States Census Bureau .
  17. ^ "S1101 HOUSEHOLDS AND FAMILIES - 2020: Largo city, Florida". United States Census Bureau.
  18. ^ "S1101 HOUSEHOLDS AND FAMILIES - 2010: Largo city, Florida". United States Census Bureau.
  19. ^ "Eckerd Offers You Advantages and Opportunities Unique in Our Industry!." Eckerd Corporation. February 3, 1997. Retrieved on June 19, 2010. "Eckerd Corporation 8333 Bryan Dairy Rd. Largo, Florida 34647"
  20. ^ https://scholarcommons.usf.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1088&context=flstud_pub [permanent dead link‍]
  21. ^ "History of the Library". Largo Public Library. Retrieved April 13, 2020.
  22. ^ "Commission Dept". City of Largo. Retrieved June 22, 2012.
  23. ^ "Budget Dept". City of Largo. Retrieved June 22, 2012.
  24. ^ "Home." (Archive) Pinellas County Schools. Retrieved on August 28, 2011. "301 Fourth St. SW Largo, FL 33770"
  25. ^ "Home." Schiller International University. Retrieved on August 28, 2011. "Main Campus 8560 Ulmerton Road Largo, Florida 33771 "
  26. ^ Cohen, Matt (February 10, 2023). "Irene Cara, star of 'Flashdance' and 'Fame,' died of natural causes, local officials say". Tampa Bay Times. Retrieved September 12, 2023.
  27. ^ Barone, Michael; Ujifusa, Grant (1987). The Almanac of American Politics 1988. National Journal. p. 257.

Further reading

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  • City of Largo. Citizen's Academy Handbook. Largo. 2003.
  • Coughlin, Leo. Around Here Clearwater Gazette. June 23, 2005.
  • de Quesada, Jr., A.M. and Luisi, Vincent. Images of America: Pinellas County. Tempus Publishing. Charleston, SC. 1998.
  • Milanich, Jerald T., Florida Indians and the Invasion from Europe. University Press of Florida: Gainesville. 1995. In Who Were the Tocobago Indians?. December 20, 2005.
  • Pinellas County Planning Department as staff for the Pinellas County Planning Council. Pinellas County Historical Background.
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Wikivoyage has a travel guide for Largo (Florida).
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