While nearby themed attractions such as Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World, Busch Gardens, and LEGOLand make Lakeland Highlands, FL a prime destination, much of the charm of the area is the serene setting that the lightly wooded streets provide as they line the lake shores that give the region its name, as well as while natural attractions like the famed Florida Everglades and, more locally, dozens of lakes and city parks that are dotted throughout the suburb.
Publix, the grocery store giant, calls Lakeland, Florida home, and is the largest contributor to local jobs in the area
While nearby themed attractions such as Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World, Busch Gardens, and LEGOLand make Lakeland Highlands, FL a prime destination, much of the charm of the area is the serene setting that the lightly wooded streets provide as they line the lake shores that give the region its name, as well as while natural attractions like the famed Florida Everglades and, more locally, dozens of lakes and city parks that are dotted throughout the suburb.
Publix, the grocery store giant, calls Lakeland, Florida home, and is the largest contributor to local jobs in the area. Publix stretches over much of the southeastern U.S., and is a major attraction for people seeking to set down roots in an affordable area with high growth potential. Real estate in Florida is relatively cheap compared to the rest of the country, but industry and commerce in the Lakeland region has exploded in recent years. Rapid growth combined with a hands-on community government rank this small town as an emerging destination for relaxed living.
Moving to Lakeland Highlands
Lakeland Highlands, Florida is a separate suburb south of the larger city of Lakeland, FL -- both of which are found in Polk County. The area is landlocked on the lower half of the Floridian Peninsula, however this unique position provides it with excellent access to all southern Florida has to offer, whether for commuting purposes or fun. Roughly 45 minutes from either coast, the city of Tampa Bay, Florida, and the Gulf of Mexico lay to the west, while Miami, Fort Lauderdale and the Florida Keys sit less than an hour east. The Lakeland Linder Regional Airport is minutes northwest, and can accommodate any size of personal jet or carrier plane.
Many home rentals are available in the immediate area surrounding the primary neighborhoods, while more affordable options for apartment complexes or house rentals lay in Lakeland to the north. Plus, most locations are "renter friendly," or tend to have excellent walking scores in terms of distance to amenities and resources, but may be further from public transport or the downtown of Lakeland proper. Lakeland in general is a very pet-friendly place, and proudly welcomes animals and their owners to the lakeside lifestyle.
Neighborhoods
Several dozen neighborhoods divide up the Highlands and many have home rentals, but three of these make up the top locations for those who are searching for rental homes. The Eaglebrooke, Christina Woods, and High Vista neighborhoods each have their own charms, but renters should consider their personal expectations when choosing a final property.
Eaglebrooke: This is a golf community with a picturesque landscape that caters to residents and golfers alike. Florida as a whole is known for its beautifully mild weather and superb golf courses, and Eaglebrooke offers this opportunity to residents with a professional level course, along with five-star living and dining.
Christina Woods: In this neighborhood, over 80 percent of the population consists of married couples and married couples with children. With great value appreciation, larger lots, and low resident turnover rate, the neighborhood has quickly become one of the most desirable markets in the Highlands. Those searching for rental homes in Lakeland Highlands should consider looking for a 2 bedroom apartment to keep costs down, or even a duplex for rent if a local house rental is preferred.
High Vista: High Vista is indeed high living, as the average income and home value is one-fifth higher than the surrounding neighborhoods. With very few residents, the community is a small and home to multiple green spaces bordering lakeside walks. The area is also unique in how the majority of the current homeowners have been in their homes for over five years, giving it one of the lowest turnover rates in central Florida.
Living in Lakeland Highlands
The three words that are most important in choosing where to live are location, location, location. Lakeland Highlands has the location advantage, hands down! Lakeland Highlands has made a huge effort to make their town cool, and it's working! While you'll find all the strip malls and chain stores you need here, too, this is really the place to be for uncommonly cool spots like a restored 1920s movie theater and a working drive-in movie theater.
The central Florida region is not only dotted with blue lakes and suburbs, but it also offers a sunny and warm climate with the tropical breeze known for in the sunshine state. More so than other areas, Lakeland Highlands has a high regard for the effectiveness of their public institutions, as well as the municipalities contributions to the community. A focus is placed on the school district and elementary education, but especially public works and parks and recreation. A strong local business sector supports the town with the grocery chain Publix headquartered nearby.
Local events take place at the nearby Lakeland Center which offers a variety of entertainment options throughout the year. Likewise, The Lakeland Center's Youkey Theatre hosts annual events with the Imperial Symphony to periodically perform throughout the summer months. The center also offers lessons for children, spaces for rent, and group classes. Local transport routes, such as the bus routes or the plethora of bicycle lanes that have been recently added, connect the southern suburb to Lakeland proper in 5-10 minutes while also providing easy access for commuters to the major freeways.
For those seeking an eat-outside climate, a pet-friendly community, active city council, and rising school district, Lakeland Highlands affords many of the opportunities you seek. Located between many of the hottest spots in Florida, Lakeland Highlands is quickly becoming a well known relaxation destination where the good life is still lived everyday.
