Expats often yearn to relocate to Florida and settle in the land of lakes, so they choose to move to Lakeland, Florida. If this is something you are considering, this blog post will provide you with a wealth of information about the city. So, please continue reading!
Incorporated on January 1, 1885, and founded by Abraham Munn, Lakeland was originally an 80-acre tract of land in the city’s downtown. Since its inception, it has become a hub of innovation and progressive ideas, with 38 lakes serving as community focal points and providing scenic areas for recreation and the most extensive one-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture worldwide.
With so many alluring things to lure people to vacation and settle down, here’s what you can expect after moving to Lakeland, Florida.
Quick facts before moving to Lakeland, FL
Where is Lakeland, FL, Located?
Lakeland, located in Central Florida, is situated along Interstate 4, east of Tampa and west of Orlando. As the most populous city in Polk County, Florida, Lakeland holds a central position in the state.
Population in Lakeland, FL
In the 2020 U.S. Census, the Population of Lakeland, Florida, was 112,641 residents.
But now, Lakeland’s population is estimated to increase slightly to 120,071 in 2022 and 121,380 in 2023.
Diversity in Lakeland, FL
Lakeland, FL, is a diverse city, with White (Non-Hispanic) making up 58.7%, Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) at 19.4%, and White (Hispanic) at 9.1%, among others.
The city boasts a high diversity score of 93 out of 100, indicating its significantly diverse population compared to other U.S. cities.
Cost of Living in Lakeland, FL
When relocating to Lakeland, Florida, learning about a city’s cost of living is essential. The information below will help you estimate your expenses and make a more informed decision about where to live.
- Lakeland, Florida, had a Cost of Living Index of 91, making it 9 percent lower than the U.S. average.
- Lakeland reports a median household income of $52,972 and an average income of $74,477. For homeowners, the average income is $61,756, while for renters, it’s $39,549.
- To live a comfortable life in Lakeland, it’s recommended to have a minimum annual income of $54,000 for a family and $40,000 for a single person.
- The average cost of living in Lakeland, Florida, is $1250 per month.
The table below indicates Lakeland’s cost of living index for different categories compared to the cost of living in Florida and the national average.
| Category | Lakeland | Florida | National |
| Cost of Living | 91 | 99 | 100 |
| Goods & Services | 100 | 99 | 100 |
| Groceries | 108 | 105 | 100 |
| Health Care | 92 | 97 | 100 |
| Housing | 70 | 96 | 100 |
| Transportation | 100 | 99 | 100 |
| Utilities | 97 | 101 | 100 |
How Is the Housing Market in Lakeland, FL?
Learn the critical housing and rental market stats before moving to Lakeland, Florida.
- As of 2023, the median sold price for a home in Lakeland, Florida, is $312,903.
- The homeownership rate in Lakeland is 54.7%, and renters are speculated to be 45.3%.
- The median listing price per square foot for homes in Lakeland is $202.
- The average Rental prices in Lakeland vary, ranging from $725 to $270K per month.
Average rental price in Lakeland, FL
- The average rental price for a studio apartment in Lakeland, FL, is approximately $995
- The average rental price for a 1-bedroom apartment in Lakeland, FL, is approximately $1,150
- The average rental price for a 2-bedroom apartment in Lakeland, FL, is approximately $1,500
- The average rental price for a 3-bedroom home in Lakeland, FL, is approximately $2,000
- The average rental price for a 4-bedroom home in Lakeland, FL, is approximately $2,250
How is the job market in Lakeland, FL?
If you’re Speculating whether, after moving to Lakeland, FL, you will get a job position according to your qualifications, experience, and requirements, here are some stats on the job market and salaries in Lakeland.
- Lakeland, Florida, has a growing job market with significant employers like Publix and Amazon.
- The job market saw a 2.9% growth in 2019 and is expected to increase by 42.5% over the next ten years.
- As of 2023, nonagricultural employment in the Lakeland-Winter Haven MSA was 271,600, adding 4,000 jobs (+1.5 percent) over the year.
- Lakeland’s unemployment rate is 3.4%, lower than the long-term average of 6.88% for Polk County.
- The average salary in Lakeland, FL, is $20.97 per hour or $43,622 annually.
What are the top employers in Lakeland, FL
- Publix
- Lakeland Regional Health
- GEICO
- Amazon Air Hub & Distribution
- Watson Clinic
- Southeastern University
- Saddle Creek Logistics Services
- WellDyneRx
- Marriott Vacations
- Lockheed Martin:
What are the most common job titles in Lakeland, FL
- Customer Service Representative
- Cashier
- Sales Associate
- Warehouse Worker
- Certified Nursing Assistant
- Server
has the highest paying jobs in Lakeland, FL.
- Physician
- Dedicated Owner Operator (Truck Driver)
- Nurse Practitioner
- Box Truck Owner Operator
- Veterinary Surgeon
- Commercial Sales Representative
- Utility Coordinator
- Vocational Evaluator
- Hot Shot Non-CDL Owner Operator
- Medical Physician:
How safe is it to live in Lakeland, FL?
Lakeland, Florida, has a crime rate higher than the national average, with a 1 in 36 chance of being a crime victim. Look at the crime statistics in Key West, FL, and decide if moving to Key West, FL, would be great for you and your family to live!
- Lakeland’s crime rate is 27.71 per 1,000 residents, including 3.68 for violent crimes and 24.02 for property crimes.
- Violent crime rates vary by neighborhood, with a chance ranging from 1 in 273 to 1 in 372.
- The total crime rate is 2,825.0 per 100,000 people, 21.55% higher than the national rate.
- Assault is the most common violent crime, with a rate of 223 per 100,000 residents.
- Theft is the most common property crime, with a rate of 1,997.8 per 100,000 residents.
- The metropolitan area’s violent crime rate was lower than the national rate in 2020, and its property crime rate was also lower.
- 68% of residents feel safe, and 18% feel secure in Lakeland.
Top Safest Neighborhoods in Lakeland, FL
- Lake Hollingsworth
- Grasslands
- Cleveland Heights
- Highlands
- Lakeland Highlands
- Christina
- Lakeside Village
- South Lake Morton
- Florida Southern College (surrounding area)
How Fast Can You Commute in Lakeland, FL?
In Lakeland, Florida, commute times range from 21.0 to 31 minutes, with most residents driving alone to work. On average, Lakeland households own two cars.
Public transportation in Lakeland, Florida, relies on the Lakeland Area Mass Transit District, Citrus Connection, and several other services.
- Citrus Connection: Citrus Connection manages public transportation in Polk County, covering areas like Winter Haven, Bartow, Ft. Meade, and Frostproof, along with paratransit services. Bus routes operated by Citrus Connection connect Lakeland to various destinations, including Winter Haven, Bartow, Auburndale, Haines City, and more. The service operates six days a week, and Route 30 runs on Sundays in Winter Haven.
- T-Byrds Transport provides public transportation within Lakeland.
- Greyhound Bus Lines offers intercity bus services.
How’s the weather in Lakeland, FL?
To give you an idea of the weather conditions to expect after moving to Lakeland, Florida, the following is critical information about the weather and climate after advancing to the city.
- Lakeland, Florida, has two main seasons: a hot season lasting about 4.8 months, from May 8 to October 1, and an incredible season lasting about 2.6 months, from December 5 to February 22.
- The climate in Lakeland is characterized by high temperatures and humidity, ranging from 50°F to 90°F, with rare temperatures below 36°F or above 94°F.
- Lakeland receives around 50.1 inches of rainfall annually, with frequent thunderstorms, especially during summer.
- Lakeland enjoys many sunny days, with frequent sunny skies, especially during winter.
- The hottest month in Lakeland is August, with an average high of 90°F and a low of 73°F; the coldest month is January, with an average low of 50°F and a high of 71°F.
How is the Education in Lakeland, FL?
If admission into a quality school or college following a move to Lakeland, Florida, is a priority for you, the following information on the educational system in the city will be pertinent.
- Lakeland, Florida, has public schools with an average math proficiency of 44% and reading proficiency of 46%, slightly below the state average.
- Some standout schools like McKeel Academy of Technology and South McKeel Academy rank in the top 10% in Florida.
- Lakeland schools have an average ranking of 4/10, placing them in the bottom 50% statewide. Still, Lakeland Montessori Middle School and Lawton Chiles Middle Academy are in the top 10%.
- Public schools in Lakeland spend $9,657 per student, below the US average of $12,383. The city has over 50 public schools.
- Lakeland’s student-teacher ratio is approximately 15 pupils per teacher in public schools, with Lakeland Senior High School having a ratio of 18:1.
- Higher education costs in Lakeland include an average undergraduate tuition and fees of $3,814 for in-state and $19,449 for out-of-state students.
Best Middle Schools in Lakeland, FL
- McKeel Academy of Technology
- Lakeland Montessori Middle School
- South McKeel Academy
- Lawton Chiles Middle Academy
- Lakeland Highlands Middle School
Best Elementary Schools in Lakeland, FL
- Lakeland Montessori School House
- Magnolia Montessori Academy
- Lincoln Avenue Academy
- Frank E. Brigham Academy
- South McKeel Academy
- Cleveland Court Elementary School
Best High Schools in Lakeland, FL
- Polk State College Collegiate High School
- McKeel Academy of Technology
- George W. Jenkins Senior High School
- Lakeland Senior High School
- Lake Gibson Senior High School
Best Universities and Colleges in Lakeland, FL
- Florida Polytechnic University
- Florida Southern College
- Southeastern University
- Saint Leo University
- Florida Technical College:
What are the best things to do in Lakeland, FL?
The famous attractions and the best things to see in Lakeland, Florida, are:
- Experience the natural beauty of Florida and encounter diverse wildlife at Circle B Bar Reserve.
- Tour the most extensive Frank Lloyd Wright architecture collection at Florida Southern College.
- Stroll through the beautifully manicured Hollis Garden on Lake Mirror’s shores.
- Catch a Detroit Tigers Spring Training game or other events at Joker Marchant Stadium.
- Enjoy inclusive play at Common Ground Park, designed for children of all abilities.
- Visit Lake Morton, known for its swans, offering a serene bird-feeding environment.
- Explore art exhibitions and programs at the Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College.
- Enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views at Bonnet Springs Park.
- Experience diverse cuisines at Lakeland’s first food hall, The Joinery.
- Quench your thirst with refreshing smoothies and unique tea blends at Tea Largo.
Best Neighborhoods in Lakeland, FL
The Best Places to Live in Lakeland, Florida are
- Lake Hollingsworth
- Grasslands
- Cleveland Heights
- Highlands
- Christina
- Beacon Hill
- South Lake Morton
- Raintree
- Florida Southern College
- Downtown Lakeland:
What are the Pros and Cons of Living in Lakeland, FL?
Evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of residing in “Swan City” can aid in determining whether relocation to Lakeland, Florida, is a good idea. We have compiled a list of the positive and negative aspects of living in the city to provide you with a better understanding of what to expect.
| Pros | Cons |
| Convenient location with proximity to major cities like Tampa and Orlando | Hot, humid, and sticky summers |
| Affordable cost of living | High crime rate |
| Great employment opportunities | Traffic congestion |
| No state income tax | Presence of pests and bugs |
| Good destination for retirees | Rising rent prices |
| Abundance of lakes and recreational activities | Lack of walkability and limited bike lanes |
| Diverse community | Wild weather including extreme weather events |
| Family-friendly environment with amazing parks | – |
| Unique historical charm | – |
| Lower housing costs compared to national average | – |
Conclusion
And here it all! An in-depth overview of moving to Lakeland, Florida. This city has much to offer, from affordable living expenses to ample employment opportunities and no state income tax. Remember that every place has tradeoffs and lakeland is no exception. It is all about settling down in a place that alliance a balance of your lifestyle and priorities. So if you are ready to take up this city as your new hometown don’t hesitate to read our guide how to become a Florida resident to know ways to apply residential status.