Brandon is a city in Hillsborough County, Florida, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 123,566, making it the third-largest unincorporated community in the country. Brandon is often referred to as a suburb of Tampa, though it has surpassed Tampa itself in both land area and population.
Population and Demographics
According to the Wikipedia page for Brandon, the city had a population of 103,483 at the 2010 census. By 2020, the population had grown to 123,566 residents, representing a 19.4% increase over the decade. Brandon is now the 98th largest city in the United States by population.
The racial makeup of Brandon is 72.7% White, 14.5% African American, 0.3% Native American, 4.0% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, and 5.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents of any race make up 18.9% of the population.
The median age in Brandon is 35.8 years. 22.5% of residents are under the age of 18 while 13.0% are aged 65 or older. There are 47,288 households in the city with an average household size of 2.58 people.
Brandon’s population has experienced rapid growth since its early days. According to Census records, there were only 346 people living in the area in 1970. By 1980 the population had grown to 7,208 and in 1990 it was 52,909. This growth has continued into the 21st century as more people move to the suburbs of Tampa.
Economy and Major Employers
The economy of Brandon revolves around retail, education, insurance, real estate, construction, and health care. Many residents commute to jobs in nearby Tampa. According to City-Data.com, the major employers in Brandon are:
- Publix Super Markets – 1,300 employees
- Walmart – 1,200 employees
- Brandon Regional Hospital – 972 employees
- Hillsborough County Public Schools – 885 employees
- Verizon Communications – 700 employees
- Bright House Networks – 675 employees
- Brandon Honda – 375 employees
Other major companies with offices in Brandon include Agero, Vology, and Orchid Medical.
In 2019, the industries providing the most employment in Brandon were educational services, health care, and social assistance (17.9%), retail trade (12.6%), and professional, scientific, and technical services (10.9%).
Landmarks and Points of Interest
As a suburb of Tampa, Brandon offers easy access to big city attractions. However, Brandon has several landmarks and points of interest within the city limits.
Westfield Brandon
Westfield Brandon is a large indoor shopping mall located on Brandon Boulevard. With nearly 200 stores and restaurants, it is one of the Tampa area’s premier shopping destinations. Anchor stores include Dillard’s, JCPenney, Macy’s, and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Brandon Regional Hospital
Founded in 1973, Brandon Regional Hospital is a 309-bed acute care medical center. It offers a full range of medical services including emergency care, cancer treatment, surgical services, and women’s health.
Wat Mongkolrata Temple
Known for its ornate architecture and decorations, Wat Mongkolrata Temple is a Buddhist temple located on Sheldon Road. The temple complex includes gardens, statues, and meditation areas open to visitors.
The Regent
Located downtown, The Regent is a luxury apartment high-rise with amenities like a rooftop pool, gym, and upscale dining. At 22 stories, it is Brandon’s tallest building.
Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center
Operated by the city, the Brandon Sports and Aquatic Center provides recreational facilities for swimming, tennis, softball, and other sports. There is an Olympic-sized pool, water slides, and fitness center.
Local Government
As an unincorporated community, Brandon does not have its own municipal government. It receives county services from Hillsborough County government offices located in nearby Tampa. However, Brandon does have its own zip code, chamber of commerce, and school district.
Some of the issues involving local government in Brandon include:
- Law enforcement from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
- Fire and EMS services from Hillsborough County Fire Rescue.
- Water, sewer, trash, and recycling services provided by Hillsborough County Public Utilities.
- Transportation planning done by Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority.
Residents of Brandon vote for Hillsborough County Commissioners to represent their interests in county government. Brandon is part of Hillsborough County Commission districts 5, 6, and 7.
Education
Public education in Brandon is provided by the Hillsborough County Public School system. Schools located within the Brandon area include:
- 10 elementary schools
- 4 middle schools
- 3 high schools – Brandon High School, Spoto High School, Bloomingdale High School
There are also several private schools in the Brandon area, as well as Hillsborough Community College which has a campus located in the center of Brandon.
Transportation
Brandon’s central location in Hillsborough County provides convenient transportation access. Major highways serving Brandon include:
- Interstate 75 – provides north-south access to Tampa andpoints north.
- Interstate 4 – east-west corridor connecting Tampa and Orlando.
- State Road 60 – crosses through Brandon and connects to Interstates 75 and 4.
HART, the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority, provides public bus service throughout Brandon and connections to downtown Tampa. The closest commercial airport is Tampa International Airport located 15 miles southwest of Brandon.