Price
Location
Home Type
From the $369s
Applewood Reserve
Lakeland, Polk County
Single Family Home Community
Low Interest Rates on Quick Move-In Home
From the $411s
Magnolia Estates
Lakeland, Polk County
Single Family Home Community
SOLD OUT
From the $254s
Oak Creek Preserve
Lakeland, Polk County
Townhome Community
Sold Out!
Build a New Home in Lakeland
Living in Lakeland, Florida, offers a balanced, picture-esque lifestyle defined by 38 scenic lakes, historic brick-street neighborhoods, and a thriving community culture nestled directly between Tampa and Orlando. It bridges small-town charm and city convenience, offering a relatively affordable housing market, a vibrant walkable downtown core, and top-tier green spaces like Bonnet Springs Park. Residents enjoy a rich local arts scene, royal swan-filled lake promenades, and easy commuting access to two major metros. However, the trade-offs include dealing with rapid population growth, increasing traffic along I-4 and local corridors, typical Central Florida summer heat, and a suburban layout that makes having a car essential.
If the location of these communities is not your ideal location, Maronda Homes is also building:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the overall "vibe" and environment?
Scenic, historic, and active. True to its name, Lakeland has 38 named lakes, giving the town a distinct waterfront feel despite being inland. The historic downtown features brick-paved streets, historic bungalows, local boutiques, craft breweries, and royal swans gliding along the lakes. It is anchored by Bonnet Springs Park—a massive 168-acre privately funded public park that has become a premier community hub for festivals, walking trails, and family outings.
How is the location for work and commuting?
Lakeland sits halfway between Tampa (~35 miles west) and Orlando (~55 miles east) along the I-4 corridor.
- The Pros: You can reach major airports, theme parks, or coastal beaches in 45 to 75 minutes. Lakeland is also a major economic hub on its own—it serves as the headquarters for Publix Super Markets and hosts major healthcare systems and logistics hubs.
- The Commute: Relying on I-4 during peak rush hours can be frustrating due to regional commuter traffic.
What is the housing market and cost of living like in Lakeland?
It remains more affordable than neighboring Tampa or Orlando.
- Housing Variety: You’ll find historic craftsman-style homes around Lake Morton, established neighborhoods around Lake Hollingsworth, golf communities in South Lakeland, and modern master-planned developments expanding in North Lakeland.
- Home Prices: The median home sale price sits around $300,000 to $335,000, offering buyers more square footage and land than nearby metros.
What do residents do for fun?
Life centers on outdoor activities, local culture, and community events:
- Lake Walks & Water: Jogging or biking the 3-mile loop around Lake Hollingsworth, feeding the famed swans at Lake Morton, or paddleboarding on Lake Mirror.
- Arts & Education: Home to Florida Southern College (featuring the world’s largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture), the Polk Museum of Art, and the historic Polk Theatre.
- Events & Aviation: Hosting major events like the annual SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo (one of the largest aviation gatherings in the world) and vibrant weekly farmers’ markets downtown.
How long does it take to build a new home with Maronda Homes in Lakeland?
It takes approximately 6 – 12 months to build your new home in Lakeland with Maronda Homes. Disclaimer: Build times are subject to change at any time for any reason. Build times and completion dates are estimates only and are not guaranteed. Actual construction duration may vary based on weather conditions, material availability, labor schedules, and local permitting processes. Please consult with your sales representative for the most current project updates.