Hilliard is a town in Nassau County, Florida, United States. The population was 2,702 at the 2000 census. As of 2004, the population recorded by the United States Census Bureau is 2,840 . In 2003, Hilliard was chosen as the "2003 Rural Community of the Year" by Florida governor Jeb Bush, because of its collaboration with the YMCA to establish a local chapter, which includes a large swimming pool and exercise facilities.