WELCOME TO INDIAN RIVER COUNTY
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ndian River County was established in 1925 and today is comprised of five incorporated municipalities, all governed by a Commission of five elected members representing each of the county’s five districts. Vero Beach is the county seat with a population estimated at 18,160 people and a council-manager form of government. Incorporated in 1910, Vero Beach was a rail stop along the Florida East Coast Railroad. Since those early days, the city has become the center for Indian River County’s flourishing economic and cultural growth. Picturesque residential communities, planned open space for community outings, along with unspoiled beaches and breathtaking landscapes, have contributed to the popularity of Vero Beach as a destination. Sebastian, north of Vero Beach, is the largest municipality with a population of approximately 22,924. Residents here enjoy a warm, friendly hometown atmosphere. Starting off as a fishing village, Sebastian is now focused on a growing tourist industry where visitors and residents can enjoy boating, swimming, fishing, surfing and many other water-oriented activities. Sebastian is run by a council-manager form of government.
The Driftwood Resort is filled with history and charm.
Fellsmere, the most rural incorporated town in Indian River County, is located in the northwestern part of the county with a population of 5,108. Sugar had been the primary industry for this agricultural community, but in recent years the emphasis has shifted to citrus and cattle. Fellsmere is proud to be host of the famous Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival, held the third week in January. Fellsmere Day, is held the first Saturday in April with a parade, a bed race and a variety of family-orientated activities. Indian River Shores and Orchid are residential communities, both incorporated and both with a council-manager form of government. Indian River Shores is home to approximately 3,829 year-round residents, with that figure doubling during the winter months. Orchid is a golf and beach community, newly developed on the barrier island north of Vero Beach. Just over 300 residents enjoy pristine beaches, spectacular ocean vistas and golf courses around the luxury home sites. The lure of pedestrian-friendly communities is quickly being rediscovered in Indian River County. In the established areas of Vero Beach, an active Main Street Vero Beach Association is successfully working to restore and revitalize the historic downtown business section. On the barrier island, the Oceanside Business Association promotes the popular beachside businesses, and both of these commercial zones are within easy walking distance of attractive residential areas. Royal Palm Pointe is a destination area for shopping, dining, business services and condominium living. In Sebastian, the riverfront has become a prime destination for strolling, shopping and dining.
In the garden at the Vero Beach Museum of Art.
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2010 Membership Directory & Quality of Life Guide