The state of Florida is well-known for its beaches, strange news stories, and geographical names that are completely incomprehensible to anybody who are not from the state. The ability to correctly pronounce some names is a skill that authentic Floridians are the only ones who have perfected. This is because of a combination of Spanish, Indigenous, and just plain strange influences. It is safe to say that you have spent an excessive amount of time avoiding tourists and hurricanes if you are able to make it through this list without any hesitation.
14 Words That Can Only Be Pronounced by Authentic Floridians
Florida (FLAHR-uh-duh)
If you say “Flore-EE-da,” you might as well pack your bags.
Miami (My-AM-ee)
Not “Mee-ah-mee.” That’s how they say it in Ohio.
Kissimmee (Kuh-SIM-ee)
If you say “KISS-uh-mee,” Mickey Mouse will personally escort you out.
Okeechobee (Oh-kee-CHOH-bee)
Looks intimidating, but locals know it’s all about the bass—both kinds.
Micanopy (Mick-uh-NO-pee)
If you say “Mike-a-nope,” you’re officially banned from Gainesville.
Apalachicola (Ap-uh-latch-uh-CO-luh)
If you can’t say it, you don’t deserve its oysters.
Alachua (Uh-LATCH-you-uh)
This one separates the Floridians from the snowbirds.
Tallahassee (Tal-uh-HASS-ee)
You should know this one, but we’re including it just in case.
Palatka (Puh-LAT-kuh)
Not fancy, not complicated—just don’t overthink it.
Hialeah (High-uh-LEE-uh)
The traffic here is worse than the pronunciation.
Chattahoochee (Chat-uh-HOO-chee)
Sounds fun, but it’s also where Florida sends the “interesting” folks.
Loxahatchee (Lock-suh-HATCH-ee)
Bonus points if you’ve actually been there.
Wewahitchka (Wee-wuh-HITCH-kuh)
If you can say it, you’ve probably fished there.
Yalaha (Yuh-LAH-hah)
Don’t worry, most Floridians haven’t even heard of it.
Congratulations, you are now officially a Floridian if you have answered all of these questions correctly. You are aware that wearing flip-flops is appropriate throughout the entire year, you have dodged an alligator at least once, and you have come to terms with the fact that being a Florida Man is simply a way of life. To everyone else, just smile and nod, and allow the people who are native to the area do the talking.