Within the last 15 years, the population of this relaxed, friendly town has tripled to 6,500 people who’ve been attracted by Alachua’s strong economic base, sound education system and recreational activities. Residents from outside the town come for the antique shops, great restaurants and quaint shops on Alachua’s tree-lined streets. For more active pursuits, area springs and rivers are located within minutes of downtown Alachua, offering tubing, swimming and canoeing. Conveniently located near the famous Ginnie Springs, Alachua is just eight miles from the well-known antique town of High Springs. Gainesville, home of the University of Florida, is just 13 miles to the south.

While agriculture has been the prominent industry, other businesses have begun to strengthen the economy here. Large employers now include boat manufacturer Hunter Marine, geological drilling manufacturer Tamrock Drilltec, Energizer Power Systems and others. The city also continues to attract national and international attention from high-level research industries.

In 1995, Alachua was selected by the State of Florida Rural Development Council as the “Outstanding Rural Community of the Year,” recognizing the city’s outstanding community projects, children-oriented recreational and sports programs, and parent/volunteer support.