Living in Lakeland, Auburndale & Winter Haven, Florida
Where Lakeside Living, Family-Friendly Communities, and Central Florida Convenience Meet
Why Families Choose Lakeland, Auburndale & Winter Haven
Located in Polk County between Tampa and Orlando, these communities continue to attract families, retirees, professionals, and remote workers looking for more space, lower housing costs, and a strong sense of community.
The area is known for its chain of lakes, outdoor recreation, historic downtown districts, and convenient access to both major metropolitan areas.
Whether you’re searching for a first home, new construction, waterfront property, or a place to retire, Polk County offers a wide variety of options.
Residents enjoy access to:
- I-4
- Polk Parkway
- Downtown Lakeland
- Orlando
- Tampa
- Orlando International Airport
- Tampa International Airport
Approximate commute times:
- Tampa: 35–60 minutes
- Orlando: 45–60 minutes
- Disney Area: 30–45 minutes
** Commute times vary by neighborhood and traffic conditions.
Families appreciate the variety of public, charter, and private school options throughout Polk County.
Popular public schools include:
Lakeland
Auburndale
Winter Haven
- George Jenkins High School
- Lakeland High School
- Harrison School for the Arts
- Lincoln Avenue Academy
- Auburndale High School
- Stambaugh Middle School
- Lena Vista Elementary
- Winter Haven High School
- Chain of Lakes Collegiate High School
- Denison Middle School
** School assignments and ratings may change over time. Buyers should verify current zoning directly with Polk County Schools.
Bonnet Springs Park (Lakeland)
One of Central Florida's premier parks featuring: Walking trails, Playgrounds, Event spaces, Botanical gardens, Family activities, Interactive children's areas
Lake Hollingsworth (Lakeland)
A local favorite known for: Walking and running paths, Cycling, Scenic lake views, Bird watching, Outdoor fitness opportunities
Circle B Bar Reserve (Lakeland)
One of Florida's top nature preserves offering: Wildlife viewing, Alligator sightings, Hiking trails, Photography opportunities, Native Florida ecosystems
Chain of Lakes (Winter Haven)
Winter Haven's famous interconnected lakes offer: Boating, Fishing, Water sports, Kayaking, Waterfront dining, Sunset cruises
Rotary Park (Winter Haven)
A popular community park featuring: Walking trails, Playground areas, Picnic facilities, Sports courts, Family gatherings, Community events
Auburndale TECO Trail (Auburndale)
Excellent for outdoor exercise and recreation featuring: Paved biking trails, Walking paths, Running routes, Scenic surroundings, Family-friendly accessibility
popular neighborhoods
Upscale golf course community known for luxury homes, beautiful landscaping, and a private country club atmosphere.
Popular for larger homesites, newer construction, excellent schools, and suburban living.
Gated golf community featuring custom homes, scenic views, and resort-style amenities.
One of the area’s most desirable locations for families and professionals due to its convenience, schools, and established neighborhoods.
Established neighborhood known for mature landscaping, golf course homes, and larger properties.
Gated waterfront community featuring custom homes, private boat access, and luxury living.
Popular for newer construction, family-friendly surroundings, and convenient commuting options.
Known for larger homes, community amenities, and attractive neighborhood design.
One of Polk County’s premier gated communities offering lake views, luxury homes, and resort-style amenities.
Desirable neighborhood featuring custom homes and peaceful surroundings near Lake Arietta.
Active adult community offering resort-style amenities, social activities, and low-maintenance living.
Popular among retirees seeking golf, recreation, and an active lifestyle within a gated community.
Growing neighborhood with convenient access to shopping, schools, and major roadways.
Known for larger homesites, custom properties, and scenic surroundings.
Waterfront community featuring access to Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes and beautiful lakefront views.
Shopping & Dining
Shopping & Retail
- Lakeside Village
- Lakeland Square Mall
- Downtown Lakeland Shopping District
- South Florida Avenue Retail Corridor
- Auburndale Plaza
- Berkley Square Shopping Center
- Havendale Boulevard Retail Corridor
- Local boutiques and specialty shops
- Winter Haven Central Park District
- Downtown Winter Haven Shopping District
- Cypress Gardens Boulevard Retail Corridor
Grocery Stores & Specialty Markets
- Publix
- Walmart Supercenter
- ALDI
- Sam’s Club
- Costco Wholesale
- Sprouts Farmers Market
- Local farmers markets throughout Polk County
Fitness & Wellness
- YMCA
- Planet Fitness
- Crunch Fitness
- Anytime Fitness
- OrangeTheory Fitness
- Club Pilates
- Yoga Pointe
- CrossFit Lakeland
Dining & Restaurants
Residents can choose from hundreds of dining options, including:
Local Favorites
- Nineteen61
- Fresco’s Southern Kitchen & Bar
- Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille
- Scarpa’s Italian Restaurant
- Harborside
- Tanners Lakeside Restaurant
- Ovation Bistro & Bar
- Numerous lakefront dining destinations
- Arabellas
- Family-owned restaurants
- Casual dining establishments
Coffee Shops & Sweet Treats
- Black & Brew
- Concord Coffee
- Starbucks
- Starbucks
- Local ice cream parlors and dessert shops
Entertainment & Recreation
- LEGOLAND Florida Resort
- RP Funding Center
- Downtown Lakeland Events
- Downtown Winter Haven Events
- Chain of Lakes boating
- Fishing and kayaking
- Community festivals
- Farmers markets
- Golf courses
- Nature preserves and hiking trails
Healthcare & Medical Services
Residents benefit from access to:
- Lakeland Regional Health
- BayCare Winter Haven Hospital
- AdventHealth Heart of Florida
- Watson Clinic
- Bond Clinic
- BayCare Medical Group
Is Lakeland, Auburndale & Winter Haven Area Right for You?
If you’re looking for:
Beautiful lakes, parks, trails and outdoor recreation
Lower cost of living compared to Tampa and Orlando
New construction and established neighborhoods
More home for your money
Growing employment opportunities
A strong sense of community and local pride
Then Lakeland, Auburndale, and Winter Haven deserve a closer look.
Browse available homes, explore our community guides, or contact me for personalized guidance tailored to your goals, lifestyle, and relocation needs. Whether you’re buying your first home, relocating to Florida, or searching for your forever home, I’m here to help every step of the way.
Ready to start your journey?
Whether you’re just curious about your options or ready to find your forever home, let’s talk. No jargon, no stress—just the help you need to move forward.