Report finds median monthly rent in Florida increased $500 over three years
The median cost of housing for Florida renters rose by almost $500 dollars from 2019 to 2023, according to a new report from the University of Florida's Shimberg Center for Housing Studies. Median rent in the state soared from $1,238 to $1,719 a month over that period. More than 900,000 households making less than 60% of their area's median income in Florida paid nearly 40% of their paycheck to cover rent and housing costs such as utilities. That's more than the 30% that's typically considered affordable.s More from WUSF.
Judge says Buddhist group can sue over Everglades construction project
A local Buddhist group was granted a small win in its attempt to halt an Everglades’ restoration project the group claims would infringe on the religious beliefs of its members. In the lawsuit, the Florida Nature and Culture Center (FNCC)— a Buddhist spiritual center owned and operated by Soka Gakkai International-USA — says nearby construction on the water restoration project would have “adverse impacts” on the retreat center and disturb its members’ ability to practice their religious beliefs, including meditation. More from the Miami Herald.
South Florida leads U.S. in share of foreign-born hotel workers, study finds
A new report shows the Miami metro area leads the nation in its reliance on foreign-born hotel workers — an industry now on edge as the Trump administration intensifies its immigration enforcement efforts. The study, released by travel site Luxury Link by crunching the latest U.S. Census Bureau data, found that 65% of hotel workers in Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach were born outside the United States — more than double the national average of 31%. More from WLRN.
JEA sets back-to-back records for demand for electricity
Extreme heat drove demand for electricity to record-setting levels in Jacksonville on July 28, then did it again the next day, JEA reported. The city-owned utility said that on July 28, JEA set a record summer peak load – a measurement of demand – at 2,959 megawatts. That broke the previous record of 2,937 set in August 2007. More from the Jacksonville Daily Record and the Florida Times-Union.
Manatee County to purchase Mixon Fruit Farms despite looming audit
Despite state pressure to reduce spending, Manatee County commissioners approved a $13.5 million purchase of Mixon Fruit Farms to build a library. Commissioners also created a citizens committee to assist with a state audit of county finances. The board plans to challenge state policies hindering updates to the county's comprehensive plan, including restoring wetland protections and rescinding a resolution that allows development east of the urban boundary line. More from the Sarasota Herald-Tribune.
Recreation
CosmoNest Camp could bring Japanese-style lodging to St. Augustine
A lodging concept that began in Japan could be making its way to St. Augustine by way of capsule hotel CosmoNest Camp, a new venture by a local entrepreneur. Capsule hotels, also known as pod hotels, offer small enclosed sleeping spaces designed for short stays. The pods are compact and minimalist, providing just enough room for a bed and basic amenities.
» More from the Jacksonville Daily Record.
Arts Business
French 'masterpieces' from Monet, Matisse coming to Harn Museum at UF in Gainesville
The Harn Museum of Art on the University of Florida campus is preparing to host a collection of French "masterpieces" from such well-known artists as Claude Monet and Henri Matisse, among others. The exhibition "French Moderns: Monet to Matisse, 1850–1950" will open Aug. 5 at the museum at 3259 Hull Road in Gainesville. Visitors will see more than 55 paintings, drawings and sculptures from the Brooklyn Museum’s collection of European art. The exhibition will be display through Jan. 4, 2026.
» Read more from the Gainesville Sun.