Florida is called the Sunshine State because of its subtropical to tropical climate and annual average of 230 days with sunshine. Florida's nickname of the Sunshine State was officially adopted by the Florida state legislature in 1970.
Florida is located in the southeastern part of the United States, bordered by the states of Alabama and Georgia. Florida is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Gulf of Mexico to the west. Florida comprises a total area of about 66,000 square miles, making it the 22nd largest state. Florida had a population over 19.5 million people as of 2013, making it the fourth most populated state.
