Port Orange was settled by John Milton Hawks, who brought freed African Americans to work at his sawmill after the U.S. Civil War.

The city has started courting high-tech companies as well, prompting the simulation training defense contractor, Raydon Corporation, to move its headquarters and all operations there in 2010.

The campus in Port Orange was founded in 2002 by James E. Hether, D. C. The Kenneth W. Parker Amphitheater hosts events such as the annual Lakeside Jazz Festival.

Passenger service ended in Port Orange in 1932, though it continued as a flag stop until the long strike of 1963.

Freight service continues to operate along the Florida East Coast Railway, but makes no stops within Port Orange.