Thinking About Moving to Lakeland, Florida Metro Area? The Ultimate Relocation Guide

The Ultimate Lakeland Metro Area Relocation Information Guide

Thinking about moving to the Lakeland – Winter Haven area but you need to know more? Discover what it’s like to live in Winter Haven, the “Chain of Lakes City” and Lakeland, “Swan City” as well as surrounding communities from our local community of experts who live and work here and have all the tips and advise to help make your decision and move successful.

The Good, the Bad, and the Beautiful, Plus a Realistic Look at the Cost of Living, Real Estate and other factors, and Steps for Relocating

If you’re considering a move to Central Florida, the Lakeland-Winter Haven metro area may have caught your eye. Known for its charming small-town vibe, beautiful lakes, and proximity to major cities like Tampa and Orlando, this region is becoming increasingly popular among retirees, young families, and professionals seeking a more affordable lifestyle.

But like any place, it’s not all sunshine and palm trees. This guide will walk you through the good, the bad, and the beautiful of living in the Lakeland-Winter Haven metro area, including cost of living, things to do, and real estate insights to help you decide if this is the right move for you.

This guide covers the Lakeland-Winter Haven Metro area which includes all of the cities and communities in Polk County, Florida, including AuburndaleBartowDavenportHaines CityHighland CityLake WalesLakeland, and Winter Haven.

 

The Good

Polk County is one of the fastest-growing regions in Florida, and for good reason. The area offers a slower pace of life, natural beauty, and plenty of outdoor activities, all while remaining affordable compared to bigger cities.

Quaint Downtowns

Polk County is loaded with small towns, and even larger ones, that maintain a small town feel, with downtown hubs and locally-owned shops, trendy restaurants, and a lively arts scene. The county features a mix of community boutique shops and local restaurants, offering unique shopping experiences and diverse dining options. Lakeland is known for its historic downtown, antique shops, and Lake Mirror Park, a popular gathering spot for locals.

Lakeside Living

Chain of Lakes: One of the defining features of the Winter Haven area is its Chain of Lakes that includes 50 interconnected lakes that provide endless opportunities for boating, fishing, water sports, and scenic waterfront living. The Chain of Lakes allows you to travel between lakes via canals, offering a unique waterfront lifestyle.

More Lakes: With over 550 freshwater lakes across Polk County, the area offers great fishing, adventurous airboat eco tours, and exciting water sports.

Outdoor Activities 

The communities and cities in the area feature wonderful parks, golf courses, preserves, and trails providing ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation.

  • Safari Wilderness Ranch: Offers close-up wildlife encounters on an impressive wilderness ranch.
  • Circle B Bar Reserve (Lakeland): A wildlife haven with hiking trails and alligator sightings.
  • Lake Hollingsworth (Lakeland): Popular spot for walking, running, and birdwatching.
  • Lake Howard Nature Park (Winter Haven): Offers scenic trails and lake views.

Attractions & Entertainment

LEGOLAND Florida: A premier attraction that draws families from all over the state to the area. Living nearby means easy access to theme park fun and special resident discounts. LEGOLAND features a fun activity park plus a water park!

Close Proximity to Disney and Universal Theme Parks: In less than an hour, you can be enjoying the magic of Disney and the fun at Univeral, plus all the other fun stuff to do in the Orlando area. This closeness makes it easy to enjoy the parks all year long.

Day Trips to the Beach: West Coast Beaches in the Tampa Bay area, such as St. Pete Beach, are only a little more than a 1 hour drive, and the east coast beaches along Central Florida, such as Daytona Beach and Cocoa Beach are about a 2 hour drive.

Bok Tower Gardens (Lake Wales): A National Historic Landmark with lush gardens and the iconic Singing Tower.

Polk Museum of Art (Lakeland):  Smithsonian-affiliated teaching museum with rotating exhibits.

Ritz Theatre (Winter Haven): Restored 1920s theater that hosts live performances and films.

Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo (Lakeland): One of the largest airshows in the world, held annually at Lakeland Linder Airport.

Events & Festivals

An awesome perk of living in this central Florida county is the various communities that come together to celebrate with holiday parades and cultural festivals, there’s always something happening.

  • Legoland’s Brick Dash 5K (Winter Haven)
  • Downtown Lakeland’s First Friday Art Walk
  • Winter Haven’s Holiday Boat Parade on the Chain of Lakes

If you’re looking for a family-friendly environment with a strong sense of community, this region delivers.

Affordable Housing and Real Estate Options

One of the biggest draws to this region is its affordable real estate market. Compared to Orlando, Tampa, or South Florida, you’ll get more bang for your buck when it comes to housing.

Schools and Kid-Friendly 

Great schools, parks, and kid-friendly attractions make it an ideal spot for families. The Polk County School District serves the region and offers a mix of public, charter, and private schools. The area is also home to Southeastern University, Florida Southern College, and Polk State College. Families moving to the area can choose from highly-rated schools.

 

☁️ The Bad: Challenges to Consider

While there’s plenty to love about the Lakeland-Winter Haven metro area, it’s not without its downsides. Moving here means adapting to some unique challenges, particularly the weather, infrastructure, and job market.

Thunder Storms & Hurricanes

Florida is known for its tropical and subtropical climate, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine year-round. Florida is also known as the sunshine state but has more lightning strikes and rain than most places on the planet! In Florida, when it rains, it typically pours. But then it’s over just as fast as it rolled in and the sky is back to it’s beautiful blue sunny hue. Follow the rules for avoiding lightning and staying safe.

Hurricane season runs from June to November, and while the region is inland and less prone to direct hits, hurricane preparedness is a must.

Hurricanes and the damages caused by them in Florida is always a concern. It is important to be prepared for hurricane season and stay informed about evacuation plans, have an emergency kit ready, and consider purchasing hurricane insurance to safeguard your property.

☀️ The Weather: It’s HOT and HUMID

Let’s get this out of the way: Florida summers are brutal. From May to October, you’ll experience high heat, humidity, and daily thunderstorms.

While the warm weather might be appealing other times of te year, getting used to the summer heat and tropical storms might take some adjustment if you are not relocating from within the state of Florida.

The Florida summer heat can be intense. Floridians learn quickly to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and embrace the outdoor lifestyle with early morning or late evening activities during the summer. Middle of the day in the summer is all about staying indoors or enjoying time in the water.

Bugs & Mosquitoes

Flying gigantic cockroaches, fire ants and mosquitoes, oh my! Yes, in Florida we have a bug problem! Florida’s warm tropical climate is the perfect breeding ground for over 10,000 species of insects.

Polk County, home of Lakeland and Winter Haven sits in the middle of the state with lots of water everywhere! Any sitting water that is not moving can easily breed mosquitoes, so summers particularly, it is important to bring along the bug spray!

Pest control is a must to keep up with keeping the problem insects out of your home and outdoor entertainment areas. When moving to Lakeland-Winter Haven Metro area, be prepared for dealing with more insect problems then you probably deal with in other states.

Infrastructure and Traffic

Both Lakeland and Winter Haven are growing rapidly, and with that growth comes traffic congestion. US Highway 27 and Interstate 4 can get very busy, especially during rush hours and tourist seasons.

If you come from areas that are not as populated or touristy, you may not be prepared for the traffic in some areas of Florida, particularly the big cities and routes to get there. While you can certainly find awesome communities in Central Florida that are not as busy on the roads, you will likely encounter traffic and congestions on the highways.

Public transportation options are limited, so you’ll need a car to get around.

Job Market

The job market in the area is steadily growing, though wages tend to be lower than in larger metro areas like Orlando or Tampa. If you’re seeking high-paying corporate jobs, you may need to commute to Tampa or Orlando.

 

The Beautiful: The Lifestyle You’ll Love

What makes the Lakeland-Winter Haven area truly special is the quality of life. It’s a place where you can enjoy the outdoors, connect with the community, and slow down from the hustle of big-city life while still living close enough to the attractions and entertainment of the big cities of Tampa and Orlando for those day trips!

 

The Real (and other considerations)

Economy and Major Industries

The Lakeland-Winter Haven metro area has a diverse economy, with key industries including:

  • Logistics and Distribution – Thanks to its central location along I-4, the area has become a hub for warehousing and distribution centers for companies like Amazon, Publix, and Walmart.
  • Agriculture – Polk County remains one of the top citrus producers in the country, along with nurseries, blueberry farms, and cattle ranches.
  • Tourism and Hospitality – With LEGOLAND, Bok Tower Gardens, and outdoor recreation, tourism is a growing industry.
  • Manufacturing and Aerospace – Companies like Lockheed Martin and G-Tech are part of the area’s aerospace sector.
  • Healthcare – Lakeland Regional Health is the area’s largest employer, along with BayCare Health System and AdventHealth.

Healthcare in Polk County

Healthcare is a major sector in Polk County, with a growing network of hospitals, clinics, and specialized providers. However, like much of rural and suburban Florida, the county faces challenges with healthcare access in more remote areas.

Major Hospitals and Health Systems:

  1. Lakeland Regional Health (Lakeland) – The largest hospital in the county and one of the busiest in Florida. Known for its Level II Trauma Center and specialized care in cardiology, oncology, and women’s health.
  2. BayCare Health System – Operates Winter Haven Hospital and Winter Haven Women’s Hospital. Provides comprehensive care and emergency services.
  3. AdventHealth Heart of Florida (Davenport) – Offers emergency services, cardiology, and primary care.
  4. Watson Clinic – One of Florida’s largest multi-specialty medical groups, based in Lakeland. Offers primary care, specialist services, and urgent care.
  5. Central Florida Health Care – Federally Qualified Health Centers that provide affordable care to underserved communities. Offers primary care, pediatrics, dental, and behavioral health services.

Challenges in Healthcare Access

While Polk County has several major hospitals and clinics, rural residents in areas like Fort Meade, Frostproof, and Dundee face limited access to specialist care. Transportation barriers also make it difficult for low-income residents to access healthcare services.

The county is also working to address disparities in mental health services, which have been underfunded in the past. Programs like Peace River Center and Tri-County Human Services are leading efforts to improve mental health resources.

Public Health and Wellness

Polk County is served by the Florida Department of Health in Polk County, which focuses on disease prevention, community health education, and emergency preparedness. Public health efforts have been critical in addressing COVID-19, childhood obesity, diabetes, and heart disease — all of which are common health concerns in the area.

Financial Aspects

One of the key attractions for many individuals and businesses is Florida’s tax-friendly environment. The state has no income tax, making it an appealing destination for those looking to keep more of their hard-earned money. Additionally, property taxes are relatively moderate compared to other states, contributing to the overall affordability of living in Florida.

The cost of living tends to be  lower then the national average and is even lower compared to most places in Florida and definitely more affordable than Orlando.

Cost of Living in the Lakeland-Winter Haven Metro Area

One of the area’s biggest draws is its affordable cost of living.

  • Median Home Price: $290,000 (as of early 2025)
  • Average Rent for a 2-Bedroom Apartment: $1,400/month
  • Average Property Taxes: 0.83%

Compared to Orlando or Tampa, you’ll find lower housing costs, cheaper utilities, and affordable healthcare options. However, insurance costs (especially homeowners insurance) can be higher due to Florida’s hurricane risk.

Real Estate: What You Need to Know

The Lakeland-Winter Haven metro area is booming with real estate opportunities. You can find everything from new-build communities to historic homes, lakefront properties, and 55+ retirement communities. For those looking to buy vacation rentals or investment properties, Winter Haven and Lakeland offer great potential for short-term rentals with attractions like Legoland Florida Resort and the Chain of Lakes drawing tourists year-round.

You’ll find a variety of housing options, including:

  • New construction communities
  • Lakefront homes on the Chain of Lakes
  • 55+ retirement communities
  • Historic homes in downtown areas
  • Condos and townhomes

If you’re considering buying investment properties, this area is ideal for Airbnb or vacation rentals, particularly near Legoland or on lakefront properties.

Find a Top Real Estate Expert in the Area, vetted, interviewed and selected as a Top Choice by our Real Estate Consultant and Florida Community Expert

Here’s a taste of our Community Experts:

 

Other Considerations for moving to the Lakeland-Winter Haven Metro Area and Polk County, Florida

Demographics of Polk County

Polk County is one of the fastest-growing counties in Florida, thanks to its central location, affordable housing, and proximity to major cities like Tampa and Orlando. As of the 2020 census, the population was 725,046 and continues to grow rapidly.

DataUSA shows the 5 largest ethnic groups in Polk County, FL are White (Non-Hispanic) (54.4%), Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) (14.4%), White (Hispanic) (10%), Other (Hispanic) (8.91%), and Two+ (Hispanic) (6.55%).

Polk County has a median age of 41 years, making it slightly older than Florida’s average. The area is popular among retirees, but it also attracts young families due to its family-friendly communities and job growth in industries like logistics, healthcare, and agriculture.

The Political Landscape

Polk County has historically been a politically conservative area, though there are pockets of progressive and moderate voters, particularly in Lakeland and Winter Haven.

Political Registration (2023 Data):

  • Republican: 46%
  • Democrat: 27%
  • No Party Affiliation (NPA)/Other: 27%

Religion in Polk County

The area is home to a wide variety of churches and religious communities, ranging from traditional denominations to non-denominational megachurches. There is also a growing population of non-religious residents, particularly among younger people and newcomers from urban areas.

Steps for Relocating to Lakeland – Winter Haven

  1. Start Researching the cities and communities in the area. Decide on the features that are a must have for you. For example, live on the lake, lake access in your community, close to Legoland, close to a downtown, etc.
  2. Come for a visit and explore the downtowns, proximity of communities to things you like to do, dining, traffic and neighborhoods. I’d recommend visiting more than once in different seasons and experience the summers and winters here!
  3. If you have kids attending school, check out the local schools and do your research for special programs in the arts, sports, tech, or international studies that align with your requirements.
  4. Connect with a Local Real Estate Expert in the community who can provide you insights on the area plus options for buying your Florida home.

Once you have purchased or signed a lease, it’s time to plan the move.

  1. The first step is obvious. Get your utilities set up.
  2. Next, if you have kids, get them registered in school and be sure to get all the updated health documents required for registration.
  3. Doctors, dentists, hair salon, fitness centers, etc is next on the list. Ask your neighbors for recommendations.
  4. Florida DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) is your next stop where you can register to drive in the state of Florida.
  5. If you plan to operate a boat, get your boating course completed. Note, Florida doesn’t require a boating license when driving on the lakes, but you do have to complete a simple course.

Enjoy your Florida Lifestyle and Welcome! 

 

Find your dream home with our vetted agents in Florida at LivebytheWater.com.

About the author

FLORIDA REAL ESTATE EXPERTS

Florida Real Estate is a column focused on the real estate market all around Florida. Community experts and real estate agents in Florida contribute to this column to bring you information from the locals who are in the know.
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