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Elfers, FL

Elfers is an unincorporated community in Pasco County, Florida, with a rich history dating back to the late 19th century and a small-town feel.

About Elfers

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

The full official name of this community is Elfers, Florida. It is a census-designated place (CDP) , meaning it is an unincorporated community with no municipal government of its own. It is located in Pasco County , which is part of the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater metropolitan statistical area in the state of Florida, USA .

Date of Foundation and Age

The area was originally known as the Baillie settlement. Its modern identity began on December 14, 1909, when the Elfers post office was established . The name "Elfers" was chosen by Frieda Marie (Bolling) Eiland, the wife of the first postmaster, to honor a favorite uncle whose last name was Elfers . The community was briefly incorporated as a town from 1925 to 1933 .

Geographic Location and Coordinates

Elfers is situated at the geographic coordinates 28°13′N 82°43′W / 28.214°N 82.723°W . It lies in western Pasco County, approximately 45 km (28 miles) northwest of Tampa and about 60 km southwest of Dade City . The center of the community is at an elevation of 12 meters (39 feet) above sea level . It is located on the coastal plain of west-central Florida, characterized by flat terrain.

Type of City and Economic Specialization

Elfers is primarily a residential suburb and a small commercial center within the Tampa Bay area. Its economy is closely tied to the broader region, with many residents commuting to work in nearby cities like New Port Richey, Port Richey, and Tampa. Historically, the area was known for citrus production, which was facilitated by the arrival of railroad service in 1913 . Today, its economy is based on local services, retail, and its role as a bedroom community.

Population and Demographics

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, the population of Elfers was 14,573 . By this measure, it falls into the category of a small town or large census-designated place. The population has seen moderate growth; in 2010 it was 13,986, and in 2000 it was 13,161 . In 2022, the majority ethnicity was White (80.95%) .

"Visiting Card" of the City

Elfers offers a quiet glimpse into old Florida, distinguished by its pioneer-era history. Its main draw is the historic Samuel Baker House, the oldest surviving "cracker-style" home in western Pasco County, which stands as a testament to 19th-century rural life. Visitors come to explore this hidden treasure in Centennial Park and experience the area's small-town heritage.

Climate and Weather

Type of Climate and General Characteristics

Elfers has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) , characteristic of west-central Florida. It features long, hot, and very humid summers with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Winters are short, mild, and generally pleasant, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity.

Average Temperatures by Month

The warm season lasts from late May to early October, with average daily highs above 29°C (84°F) . The hottest months are July and August, with average high temperatures around 32°C (90°F) and average lows of 25°C (77°F) . The cool season lasts from early December to early March, with average daily highs below 23°C (73°F) . The coldest month is January, with an average high of 20°C (68°F) and an average low of 12°C (54°F) .

Precipitation and Humidity

Elfers experiences a very distinct wet and dry season. The dry season runs from late September through early June, while the wet season lasts from June through September. Approximately 60-70% of the annual rainfall occurs during the summer months .

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Elfers for pleasant weather is during the spring (March to mid-May) and autumn (mid-October to early December) . During these periods, temperatures are warm but not excessively hot, and humidity is significantly lower than in summer. The chance of rain is also much smaller. Winter (December to February) offers mild days and cool nights, ideal for outdoor activities.

Landmarks

Samuel Baker House

This is the crown jewel of Elfers' heritage. The Samuel Baker House is a historic "cracker-style" home built in 1882 by Samuel Baker, a former mariner and sponge-boat operator . It is the oldest known house of its kind in western Pasco County . The house is notable for its unique construction, which blends traditional Florida cracker carpentry with shipwright techniques, featuring vertical plank walls joined like a ship's hull and a central "dogtrot" hall for cooling .

Transport

Main Highways

The primary transportation artery through Elfers is the U.S. Highway 19 (US 19) , which runs north-south and connects the community to the rest of Pasco County and the greater Tampa Bay area . The eastern terminus of Florida State Road 54 is at its junction with US 19 in Elfers . This road is a major east-west corridor in the region.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Elfers is provided by bus services that are part of the PSTA (Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority) network, which extends into Pasco County. Key bus routes serving the area include the 54 WEST, which has stops in Elfers such as at Universal Plaza and along US 19 at Moog Road . These buses connect Elfers to major hubs like the Wiregrass Park and Ride, and further on to Tampa .

Nearest Airports

Elfers does not have its own airport. The nearest major airport is Tampa International Airport (TPA) , located about 45-50 km (28-31 miles) south . Another significant airport in the region is St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) , which is also within driving distance for travelers using low-cost carriers.

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Elfers offers a variety of dining options that reflect the diverse culinary landscape of Florida's Gulf Coast. While the town itself is small, its restaurant scene provides a taste of local favorites and international flavors.

Classic American Barbecue at Eli's House of BBQ For those seeking authentic American barbecue, Eli's House of BBQ is a local go-to spot. The restaurant is known for its meats, which are slow-smoked to perfection, capturing the essence of Southern barbecue traditions . The menu is complemented by all the classic sides, making it a place where both locals and visitors can enjoy hearty, flavorful meals. It's a popular choice for experiencing a staple of American comfort food right in Elfers .

Italian Cuisine at Villa Venti Ristorante Italiano Elfers is home to Villa Venti Ristorante Italiano, a family-owned and operated establishment that brings the tastes of Italy to Florida. The restaurant is celebrated for its delicious pasta dishes, pizzas, and seafood . Beyond the food, it is known for its friendly service and comfortable atmosphere, offering a warm, family-friendly dining experience that encourages guests to savor their meals and the company of others .

A Taste of Thailand at Thai Spice For those craving authentic Thai cuisine, Thai Spice offers a menu filled with aromatic and spicy dishes. From flavorful curries to refreshing salads, the restaurant provides a genuine taste of Thailand . It's the perfect spot for anyone looking to explore the complex flavors of Southeast Asian cooking, all within the Elfers community .

Greek and Mediterranean Flavors at Niko's Pizzeria & Gyros Niko's Pizzeria & Gyros is a local favorite that specializes in a fusion of Greek and Italian cuisines. While they serve delicious pizzas, they are particularly well-known for their gyros and other Mediterranean dishes . This combination makes it a unique spot where you can enjoy a classic American-style pizza alongside traditional Greek fare, reflecting the diverse tastes available in the area.

Craft Beer and Pub Fare at The Brass Tap The Brass Tap is a popular gathering place, especially for craft beer enthusiasts. With an extensive selection of beers, it's a great spot to try local and regional brews . The menu features tasty pub fare like burgers, sandwiches, and flatbreads, making it an ideal location to relax, watch a game on one of their many TVs, and enjoy a casual meal with friends .

Museums

Elfers is home to two significant historical museums that offer a window into Florida's pioneer past and its architectural heritage. Both are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and are located near each other in Centennial Park.

Baker House The Baker House is a hidden treasure and the oldest "cracker-style" home in western Pasco County . Built in 1882 by Samuel Baker, a former mariner and sponge-boat operator, the house is a remarkable example of 19th-century pioneer craftsmanship. Its construction is unique, combining traditional Florida cracker carpentry with shipwright techniques. The walls are formed by vertical planks joined like a ship's hull, and the home features a classic central "dogtrot" hall . The museum offers a tangible glimpse into rural life in the 1880s. It is open to the public on the third Saturday of each month from October through May . Visitors can explore its hand-pegged framing and imagine what life was like for the area's earliest settlers .

Pasco Arts Center / Charles B. Anderson House Located right next to the Baker House is the Pasco Arts Center, which is itself housed within the historic Charles B. Anderson House . Built in 1938, this structure was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1996 . Today, it serves as the home of the Pasco Arts Council, functioning as both a community arts center and a museum. The center promotes the arts while simultaneously preserving and showcasing local history, making it a unique cultural hub in Elfers . A visit here allows you to appreciate the historic architecture of the Anderson House while also seeing other historic structures in the area, including the nearby Baker House .

Sports and Sports Legends

While Elfers itself is a smaller community, it is home to youth sports teams, and the wider region offers opportunities for sports enthusiasts.

Local Youth Sports: Elfers Christian Eagles Elfers is home to the Elfers Christian Eagles, which fields a varsity softball team representing the local Christian school . As a high school team, the Eagles provide a focus for local youth sports and community spirit, competing against other schools in the area .

Junior Hockey in the Region: Florida Eels While not based directly in Elfers, the Florida Eels are a notable junior ice hockey team that plays in the United States Premier Hockey League (USPHL) and is a part of the broader regional sports landscape . Founded in 2013, the team is based in nearby Fort Myers, Florida . The Eels have consistently been competitive in their division, often finishing near the top of their league standings and making playoff appearances . For residents of Elfers, the Florida Eels represent a nearby opportunity to watch competitive junior hockey, which serves as a development league for college and professional prospects .

Universities and Educational Institutions

Elfers does not have universities or colleges within its immediate town limits. For higher education, residents typically look to the nearby cities in the Tampa Bay area. A prominent institution in the region is the University of South Florida (USF) , located in Tampa. USF is a major public research university and is ranked among the top universities in the nation for its research output. It offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs and serves as a primary destination for higher education in the region.

Healthcare Facilities and Services

Residents of Elfers have access to a wide network of healthcare providers, with many medical professionals serving the community directly and numerous options available in the surrounding Pasco County area.

Primary and Preventive Care in Elfers The Elfers area is well-served by a large number of primary care physicians. Online directories list over 6,000 primary care physicians available in and around Elfers, with an average rating of 4 stars from tens of thousands of patient reviews . Many of these providers specialize in family medicine, internal medicine, and preventive medicine . A significant number of these practitioners are accepting new patients and offer virtual visit options, making healthcare more accessible to the community .

Medicare Services and Information For the senior population, Elfers has a substantial Medicare-eligible community. In 2025, there were over 150,000 Medicare-eligible individuals in the area . A large portion of these beneficiaries, approximately 67%, are enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans . For residents seeking assistance with Medicare enrollment or plan comparison, the local Social Security office serving Elfers is located at 7601 Little Road, New Port Richey, FL 34654 . Additionally, there are numerous licensed insurance agents and brokers available locally to help residents navigate their Medicare options .

Nearby Hospitals and Medical Centers For hospital services, residents of Elfers rely on medical centers in neighboring communities. While specific major hospital names are not detailed in the search results for Elfers proper, the area is served by a robust network of specialists and medical centers in cities like New Port Richey, Safety Harbor, and Tampa. These nearby cities provide access to cardiovascular disease specialists, gastroenterologists, and a full range of hospital-based care .

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