Lakeland is conveniently located in Polk County, between Orlando, FL and Tampa, FL. Whether you are wanting to swim in the ocean or visit Mickey Mouse at Disney World in Orlando, you are less than an hour away.
A large number of people live in Lakeland and drive to work in Tampa or Orlando, because the cost of living in Lakeland is much more affordable than those big cities.
Nestled amid sparkling blue lakes and ringed by fragrant citrus groves. Lakeland is a vibrant community on the move.Lakeland offers its residents an exceptional quality of life. Among the factors for which Lakeland received high marks include its affordable housing, outstanding educational opportunities, modern healthcare facilities and abundant recreational activities.
Living and working in Lakeland also offers a number of possibilities. Among the many options are exceptional schools, modern and affordable housing, entertaining recreation and enriching cultural activities. The city's environment is appealing because of its ideal climate, low crime rate and strong economy.
Lakeland's restored downtown area consists of a quaint Antiques District and Munn Park, which are the cornerstones of the historic district. Surrounding the town square are a host of vibrant businesses-shops and galleries, restaurants and cafés-and professional centers. Part of this lively community is its rich religious heritage represented by 175 churches of varying faiths and denominations. An effort is underway to give rebirth to Lake Mirror Park in the heart of downtown, by adding an amphitheater, pedestrian walkways and additional parking along the south shore of the lake. The 1928, aesthetic promenade was fashioned after the classical, Roman style of old and in 1987, it was restored. It is named on the National Register of Historical Places.
Housing
Estimated median house or condo value in 2009: $135,200
Mean prices in 2009: All housing units: $162,370; Detached houses: $191,190; Townhouses or other attached units: $168,575; In 2-unit structures: $142,185; In 3-to-4-unit structures: $163,534; In 5-or-more-unit structures: $138,153; Mobile homes: $54,991; Occupied boats, RVs, vans, etc.: $155,294
Demographics
Population in July 2009: 93,738. Lakeland covers 45.8 square miles. It sits at an elevation of 190 feet above sea level. Area code 863
Weather
Lakeland, FL climate is hot during summer when temperatures tend to be in the 80's and mild during winter when temperatures tend to be in the 60's.
The warmest month of the year is July with an average maximum temperature of 94.60 degrees Fahrenheit, while the coldest month of the year is January with an average minimum temperature of 51.10 degrees Fahrenheit.
Temperature variations between night and day tend to be moderate during summer with a difference that can reach 21 degrees Fahrenheit, and moderate during winter with an average difference of 23 degrees Fahrenheit.
The annual average precipitation at Lakeland is 49.13 Inches. Summer months tend to be wetter than winter months. The wettest month of the year is July with an average rainfall of 7.51 Inches.
Information provided by idcide.com and city data.com