Kissimmee
Population: 47,814
From the late 1800's into the turn of the century, the economy of the
Kissimmee area relied strictly on cattle and sugar cane. City leaders,
wanting to continue Kissimmee's prosperous history, encouraged growth
through the attraction of retirees into the area during the 1950's. The
next period of growth came in the 1970's with the opening of the Walt
Disney World resort area located approximately 7 miles west of the City.
In addition to such international attractions as Disney World, the area
boasts several corporate headquarters and is the home of the Houston
Astros spring training facility. |