Welcome to Lakeland
Living in Lakeland, Florida
Lakeland is often recognized for its livability, family-friendly environment, and overall quality of life. The largest city in Polk County, Lakeland is ideally situated directly between Tampa and Orlando on Interstate 4.
Lakeland has grown substantially over the last several decades, and there are currently around 125,000 people calling Lakeland home. Despite the growing population, Lakeland has retained its small-town charm. Residents enjoy an inclusive sense of community in addition to the many amenities of a thriving city. Just as importantly, locals enjoy access to natural beauties, like the namesake lakes that the area is known for.
Is Lakeland, Florida a Good Place to Live?
Lakeland is a wonderful place to live! According to niche.com, Lakeland is the 16th best city in the entire country for retirees. This is because of the warm weather, recreational opportunities, and comparatively low cost of living. In fact, Lakeland also ranks well on niche.com’s list of American communities with the lowest cost of living. This is certainly true in the housing market where the median home price is around $100,000 below Florida’s average.
But it’s not just for retirees. Lakeland’s local job market is diverse, with strong sectors in healthcare, education, and retail. This makes Lakeland a promising option for young professionals and growing families as well. You’ll also find above-average schools in the area. This is particularly important for families with school-aged children, but it also means a well-educated population, which serves the entire community.
The Pros and Cons of Living in Lakeland, Florida
Here are some of the significant advantages of residing in Lakeland:
- Location, location, location. Just 40 minutes from Tampa and 60 minutes from Orlando, it’s easy for Lakelanders to access world-class amenities without living with the hustle and bustle of a major metro day-to-day.
- With a lower-than-average cost of living, your dollars go further here.
- The lakes and parks are stunning, and with the good weather, you can enjoy them year-round.
- Locals appreciate culture. You’ll find the Polk Museum of Art, the Lakeland Center, and historic theaters to celebrate the arts.
- Housing is still reasonably priced in Lakeland, making homeownership viable for first-time buyers.
- Restaurants, shops, grocers, coffee shops…you’ll find all these conveniences and comforts within Lakeland.
As with all neighborhoods, there are also a few potential downsides to living in Lakeland:
- The public transportation system is limited, making a car necessary for most residents.
- Like much of Florida, Lakeland experiences hot, humid summers that might be uncomfortable for some people.
What is There to Do in Lakeland, Florida?
Lakeland is full of activities and attractions for all interests. The city's numerous lakes, such as Lake Hollingsworth, provide opportunities for boating, fishing, and scenic walks. There are also lovely outdoor
spaces, like Bonnet Springs Park, Hollis Garden, and Circle B Bar Reserve for enjoying nature. Shopping enthusiasts appreciate the Lakeland Square Mall and the charming boutiques downtown. For families, the Explorations V Children's Museum and the Florida Air Museum offer interactive educational experiences. For unique cultural excursions, The Polk Museum of Art, a Smithsonian Affiliate, offers a glimpse into both contemporary and classical art, while the historic Polk Theatre presents a range of performances.
Of course, Lakelanders also enjoy the world-famous attractions of both Tampa and Orlando. Disney World, Universal Studios Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and the Gulf Coast beaches are just a short car ride away.
Lakeland Homes for Sale
Click here to search for available listings in Lakeland.
Additional Lakeland Resources
You can find more information about the area on the official websites of the City of Lakeland and Polk County.
