Hernando County's real estate market has experienced a tremendous growth rate in the past 10 years with an approximate population of over 150,000. Hernando County includes 312,000 acres of real estate (477 square miles), and stretchs 37 miles from east to west and 18 miles from north to South, Hernando County is bordered by the Gulf of Mexico on the West. The Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge comprises a portion of the northwest boundary, while the Withlacoochee State Forest and the Withlacoochee River frame the eastern border. Hernando County encompasses Aripeka, Bayport, The City of Brooksville, Hernando Beach, Istachatta/Nobleton, Lake Lindsey, Masaryktown, Pine Island, Ridge Manor & Ridge Manor West, Spring Hill and City of Weeki Wachee.