Strategically Located for Global Reach
Indian River County occupies a prime position on Florida's east coast, providing unmatched market access for distribution operations. Companies can reach 90% of Florida's 22+ million residents within a three-hour drive, creating exceptional coverage of one of the nation's fastest-growing markets. The county's proximity to major metropolitan areas like Orlando, Tampa, Miami, and Jacksonville makes it an ideal hub for warehouses, distribution centers, transportation companies, and related services.
The availability of developable land west of Interstate 95 offers logistics companies room to grow at competitive prices. Build-to-suit sites are available at market rates for $10-$17 per square foot, providing cost-effective options for companies developing modern distribution facilities.
Hourly mean wage for Sebastian-Vero Beach MSA
Nationwide mean wage
Indian River County's comprehensive transportation network supports efficient logistics operations. Interstate 95 runs directly through the county, providing seamless north-south connectivity along the East Coast, while State Road 60 offers direct east-west access from Vero Beach to Tampa Bay.
Rail service through the Florida East Coast Railway creates additional shipping options. It runs through Indian River County, with connections running from Jacksonville to Miami and serving major ports including PortMiami, Port Everglades, and the Port of Palm Beach.
The county benefits from proximity to two significant seaports: Port Canaveral to the north, which operates as a designated Foreign Trade Zone with direct Atlantic Ocean access, and Port Everglades to the south, one of the nation's busiest cargo ports.
Comprehensive air cargo capabilities are supported by nearby Melbourne International Airport and Orlando International Airport. Locally, Vero Beach Regional Airport features three runways, while Sebastian Municipal Airport and New Hibiscus Air Park are general aviation airports that provide additional options for smaller cargo operations.
Freight Track Miles
largest Foreign Trade Zone network in the country
most transportation and warehousing establishments
Miles of roadway
Competitive Business Environment
The county offers a favorable cost structure for logistics operations, with transportation and warehousing wages that remain competitive with southeastern markets while providing excellent value. Local labor costs for key positions like truck drivers, warehouse supervisors, and material handlers often fall below regional averages, helping companies optimize their operational expenses.
Florida's business-friendly tax environment and tax incentives for logistics and distribution companies. The combination of lower operational costs and strategic location allows businesses to reinvest savings into expansion, technology upgrades, and service improvements.
Indian River State College supports the industry’s workforce development through a partnership with SAGE Corporation, a leading truck driving school operator. Together, they offer commercial vehicle driving certification to ensure a pipeline of qualified drivers and logistics professionals. In addition to a commercial driver’s license, the college offers technical certificates in logistics and transportation.
Lifestyle Advantages
The county's coastal location and year-round recreational climate help companies attract and retain quality employees in the logistics sector. Miles of pristine beaches, cultural amenities, and outdoor recreation opportunities create an appealing work-life balance that can be crucial for recruiting talent in competitive labor markets.
Established Logistics Companies
Transportation, warehousing, and utilities employ 1,000+1 workers in Indian River County. CVS Distribution Center is a major employer, while companies like Fulmer Logistics Services, Inc. provide transportation, warehousing, and supply chain analysis.
1Source: FloridaCommerce, Bureau of Workforce Statistics and Economic Research, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, 2024
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