By Farra Worrell
Columnist
Just northwest of Sanford, at the very beginning of Volusia County, sits the city of DeBary—a community that, while relatively young in its incorporation, is deeply connected to the historic and cultural rhythm of Central Florida. Officially incorporated on December 31, 1993, DeBary may not carry the centuries-old municipal designation of some neighboring cities, but its roots, relationships, and regional influence stretch far beyond its formal age.
DeBary’s geographic position alone tells an important story. As a gateway city between Seminole and Volusia counties, DeBary serves as a natural transition point—where the steady growth of Southwest Volusia meets the historic foundation and economic pulse of Sanford. For decades, residents of DeBary have commuted to Sanford for work, commerce, medical care, entertainment, worship, and civic engagement. In many ways, DeBary’s growth has occurred alongside Sanford’s resurgence, each city shaping the other through shared corridors, shared commerce, and shared community life.
The St. Johns River, which defines much of the region’s identity, flows as a unifying force between our cities. DeBary Hall Historic Site, one of the city’s most notable landmarks, reflects a time when river travel, agriculture, and commerce connected communities long before county lines mattered. That same river continues to link DeBary and Sanford today—recreationally, environmentally, and economically—reminding us that progress is strongest when grounded in preservation.
DeBary’s appeal lies in its balance: residential neighborhoods nestled among conservation lands, a growing trail system, and intentional city planning that values quality of life. Yet, for all its growth and independence, DeBary remains intrinsically tied to Sanford’s role as the historic, cultural, and economic anchor of the region.
As Sanford experiences renewed investment and national attention, that momentum radiates outward. DeBary benefits from proximity to Sanford’s downtown revival, its Amtrak Auto Train station, Orlando-Sanford International Airport, and its expanding small-business ecosystem. At the same time, DeBary contributes families, professionals, and entrepreneurs who strengthen Sanford’s workforce, school systems, and civic engagement.
In many respects, DeBary represents what intentional regional growth can look like when neighboring cities complement rather than compete with one another. It is a reminder that while city limits may define governance, community is defined by connection. And in this part of Central Florida, those connections consistently point back to one place of convergence, opportunity, and shared identity.
And as the saying goes, All Roads Lead to Sanford
