The rise of remote work and digital entrepreneurship has transformed the way people live and work, and Polk County is no exception. With its affordable cost of living, central location between Tampa and Orlando, and growing entrepreneurial community, the area has become a hidden gem for freelancers, small business owners, and remote professionals. Whether you’re looking for a full-time coworking space, a quiet café, or a place to network with like-minded professionals, Polk County has plenty of options to suit your needs.
Why Polk County is Perfect for Remote Workers
- Affordable cost of living compared to major metro areas like Orlando and Tampa.
- Strong business community with networking events and entrepreneurial support.
- Fast-growing economy with opportunities in tech, healthcare, and logistics.
- Central location with access to major cities, beaches, and attractions.
- Beautiful outdoor spaces for work-life balance and inspiration.
Best Coworking Spaces in Polk County
My Office & More (Lakeland)
Location: Downtown Lakeland
Best For: Entrepreneurs, startups, and remote workers looking for community and collaboration.
Features:
- 24/7 access for members
- Private offices, hot desks, and dedicated workstations
- Meeting rooms and event spaces
- On-site networking and professional development events
Website: myofficeandmore.com
Catapult Lakeland
Location: Downtown Lakeland
Best For: Startups, tech professionals, and creative entrepreneurs.
Features:
- State-of-the-art coworking space with an innovation lab
- Private offices, dedicated desks, and communal workspaces
- Startup incubator with mentorship and funding opportunities
- Coffee bar and networking events
Website: catapultlakeland.com
The Well (Winter Haven)
Location: Downtown Winter Haven
Best For: Freelancers, creatives, and remote professionals looking for flexible workspaces.
Features:
- Hot desks, private offices, and conference rooms
- A modern, open design with lots of natural light
- High-speed Wi-Fi and printing services
- Community events and business workshops
Website: thewellwh.com
COhatch Lakeland (Coming Soon!)
Location: Downtown Lakeland
Best For: Business professionals, corporate remote workers, and small teams.
Features:
- Private and shared workspaces in a high-end setting
- Podcast studio, event space, and wellness programs
- A national network of coworking locations
Website: cohatch.com
Remote Work-Friendly Cafés & Public Spaces
If you prefer a cozy coffee shop vibe over a dedicated coworking space, Polk County has some great cafés with free Wi-Fi, great coffee, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Best Coffee Shops for Remote Work
- Hillcrest Coffee (Lakeland) – A charming, locally owned café with indoor and outdoor seating.
- Concord Coffee (Lakeland) – Modern vibes, craft coffee, and a quiet atmosphere.
- Pressed (Winter Haven) – Great for reading, writing, and working solo.
- Black & Brew Coffee House (Lakeland & Winter Haven) – Consistently ranked as one of the best local cafés for remote work.
- The Joinery (Lakeland) – A food hall with a café-style atmosphere and plenty of seating.
Public Workspaces
- Lakeland Public Library – Free Wi-Fi, study rooms, and peaceful surroundings.
- Winter Haven Public Library – Large work tables, meeting rooms, and printing services.
- Bonnet Springs Park (Lakeland) – Outdoor seating and a café for a refreshing work session.
- Florida Polytechnic University (Lakeland) – A modern campus with open seating areas.
Remote Work Incentives & Digital Nomad Life in Polk County
If you’re a remote worker considering relocating to Polk County, there are plenty of economic and lifestyle benefits to make the move worthwhile.
Cost of Living & Housing
- The cost of living is significantly lower than in major Florida cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa.
- Affordable housing options include suburban neighborhoods, downtown apartments, and lakefront homes.
- High-speed internet is widely available, even in more rural areas.
Business & Entrepreneurial Resources
- Lakeland Economic Development Council (LEDC) provides resources for startups and business expansion.
- Catapult Lakeland and The Well Winter Haven offer incubator programs for startups.
- The Central Florida SCORE chapter offers free business mentoring.
Lifestyle & Outdoor Adventures
- Access to 126+ lakes, parks, and trails for a perfect work-life balance.
- Weekend getaways to Orlando and Tampa are just 30-45 minutes away.
- Growing arts, food, and craft beer scene for after-work socializing.
Why Polk County is a Great Remote Work Destination
- Affordable living with high-speed internet and great housing options.
- Thriving coworking scene with spaces for entrepreneurs and professionals.
- Close to major cities, but without the big-city price tag.
- Plenty of work-friendly cafés and libraries.
- An incredible outdoor lifestyle for a balanced workday.
Thinking about making Polk County your remote work headquarters? Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or digital nomad, Polk County offers the best of both worlds—business opportunities and an unmatched Florida lifestyle.
