New Port Richey, FL is a city that flirted with greatness. In the roaring 1920s it had a brief romance with some of the top stars and studio executives of the decade. For a time, there was talk of making a studio in New Port Richey. Though the Great Depression cooled those plans, the dream never died. From a small city that was valued for its rural lands and retirement homes, it grew into a major urban area with hot real estate.

There have been a few developmental periods in New Port Richey, including the 1920s, the 1950s, the 1970s and most recently the 2000 decade. The appearance on a railroad and a major U.S. highway helped to turn the spotlight onto the city. The downtown area has been livened up as of late, and now there are many commercial areas that cater to tourism.

What about New Port Richey weather? Summers are mild and winter is cool. The major companies in the area are citrus products, retail, healthcare, government and education. There are 12 elementary schools, four middle schools, six high schools and two private schools as well as a community college. There are several parks and recreation centers in the area as well as fishing opportunities on the lake.

The population of New Port Richey is believed to be over 16,000 people, though the last census estimated over 26,000 people. Why the 10,000 count difference? Because the total census counts New Port Richey East as well as West. The city has certainly had its own brush with stardom, as it was a favorite of legendary actors Gloria Swanson and Thomas Meighan. Former President George W. Bush spoke at Sims Park in the year 2004. The coastline was even used in the movie “The Norseman” starring Lee Majors.

The New Port Richey population welcomes you to a very “Playful City.”