Tampa or Orlando: Do you want to retire in one or the other of these exciting Florida cities? Why not split the difference? Halfway between these two cities, Lakeland has the amenities of a large metropolitan area. There’s plenty of water recreation without the cost of coastal living, and it’s one of the fastest-growing metros in the U.S., according to LendingTree.
But is Lakeland, Florida a good place to retire? Let’s explore what the options look like for 55+ homebuyers.
There’s Plenty To Do
Florida’s best-kept secret is out of the bag. Lakeland is mid-sized with roughly 122,000 residents, according to Census Reporter. But that number is growing. Despite its size, Lakeland has an inviting, walkable downtown area and friendly residents to give it a small-town feel. Here’s what keeps everyone busy in Lakeland.
Museums & Cultural Attractions
Admission is always free at the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art. There, you’ll find exhibits, collections, education programs, and concerts that bolster Lakeland’s cultural scene. Also, Hollis Garden provides outdoor inspiration as the city’s public botanical park, and the Florida Air Museum sends your imagination sky-high with its collection of planes, aeronautical memorabilia, and hands-on workshops for all ages. Additionally, the Frank Lloyd Wright buildings at Florida Southern College are a must-visit for architecture aficionados.
None of these institutions is a one-and-done visit. There’s always something new going on, and they’re great options for volunteering.
Shopping and Dining
Lakeland is well-known for its antique shopping. The Lakeland Antique Mall is the epicenter for deals and discoveries. Downtown Lakeland’s Munn Park Historic District has a vibrant atmosphere and a diverse selection of shops and restaurants. There’s even a large farmers’ market in the heart of the city. If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, head over to Lakeside Village for boutiques and popular eateries.
Entertainment
Feeling nostalgic? The Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre is beloved by locals and is one of only four drive-ins in the state. Do you prefer to step out of your car and into history? Then line up for tickets to live entertainment and classic films at the beautiful Polk Theatre. Here, you’ll find arena-style seating surrounded by Mediterranean village facades, and set under a ceiling of twinkling stars.
If spectator sports are more your thing, check out the Lakeland Flying Tigers. They’re the minor league affiliate team for the Detroit Tigers, who hold their spring training here!
Golf
Florida is home to the most golf courses in the United States, and Lakeland has its fair share. There are 19 public golf courses within 15 miles of the city. Most are quite affordable, with green fees for public courses generally range from $20 to $50.
Water Sports
There are 38 named lakes within city limits, with Lake Parker being the largest at 2,272 acres. Motor and sail boats, personal watercraft, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards are popular here. Are you an angler? The nearby Tenoroc Public Use Area is a wildlife preserve with world-class largemouth bass fishing, as well as plenty of accessible opportunities for panfish.
One of Florida’s More Affordable Cities
Is Lakeland, Florida a good place to retire for retirees on a budget? You probably already know about Florida’s lack of income tax and the homestead tax exemption, which ignores $50,000 of your assessed home value when you’re a full-time resident. These tax incentives are a big draw for retirees, but Florida’s cost of living is still 2-3% higher than the national average, according to Best Places. One reason that stands out is high property and auto insurance rates, thanks to damage done by the increasing number of powerful storms in the Southeastern U.S.
Let’s zoom in further: What’s the cost of living in Lakeland? In June of this year, the Economic Research Institute ranked it 6% lower than the national average and 14% lower than the average Florida city. If you’ve got your heart set on Florida, this city is a financially sound choice.
It’s a Good Time (and Place) To Buy a Home
Housing inventory is one of the metrics LendingTree used when they ranked Lakeland No. 8 in their study of 100 affordable “boomtown” cities. The median home price was $309,000 in January 2025, according to Bankrate, with 480 homes on the market that same month. Homes tend to sit on the market for 60 to 70 days, giving buyers leverage when it comes to negotiating prices. Also, now’s the time to make your move, as home values and sales prices are moving upward as people of all ages decide to build lives here.
A Wealth of Active Adult Communities
Is Lakeland, Florida a good place to retire if you’re looking for a 55+ community? Yes! There are many age-restricted and 55+ targeted developments in and around Lakeland to choose from. For active adult homebuyers seeking a 55+ community within Lakeland, let’s explore your options below.
Carillon Lakes
Low $200ks – Low $400ks
While not an age-restricted community, this Florida Leisure Communities development is very popular with active adults. Carillon Lakes is gated with a variety of sports and recreation facilities, walking trails, lakes, and a flourishing social calendar. With 650 homes, it’s on the larger side, but according to resident reviews, your neighbors will be just as friendly and welcoming as any smaller community.
Lake James
Low $300ks – Mid $300ks
Ernie White Construction broke ground on this development of 216 homes in 2004, and it remains one of Lakeland’s most sought-after enclaves. Restricted to the 55+ market, Lake James was designed with fun-loving people in mind. Carefully maintained walking and biking trails, a heated swimming pool, a world-class fitness center, and an expansive clubhouse are just a few of the attractive amenities.
Heritage Landings
Mid $200ks – High $300ks
This gated 55+ community of 65 homes offers an active, engaged lifestyle. Parks and natural spaces within the neighborhood feature ponds and lakes. Like most contemporary developments, Heritage Landings has a clubhouse complete with a fitness center, an activity room, and an outdoor pool. The first homes went up in 2020, and the four floor plans offer low-maintenance, contemporary living.
Colonnades
Low $100ks – High $200ks
Colonnades is a gated 55+ community offering affordable, low-maintenance homes. Residents also enjoy top-notch amenities like a 15,000-square-foot clubhouse, a heated pool, a fitness center, and scenic outdoor spaces including a fishing dock and walking trails. With a packed calendar of social events and a prime Central Florida location near shopping, golf, and major attractions, Colonnades is ideal for retirees seeking convenience and connection.
Cypress Lakes
Low $100ks – Mid $200ks
Cypress Lakes is a vibrant 55+ community offering resort-style living, low-maintenance homes, and a wide range of amenities. Residents enjoy a 30,000-square-foot clubhouse, multiple pools, a fitness center, and two 18-hole golf courses, along with a full calendar of clubs, events, and activities. With its sunny Central Florida location, Cypress Lakes is perfect for retirees seeking a fun yet relaxing lifestyle.
Foxwood Lake Estates
Low $100ks – Low $200ks
Residents of Foxwood Lake Estates enjoy a variety of amenities, including a clubhouse, a fitness center, an outdoor pool, walking trails, and a stocked fishing lake. With nearby shopping, golf, and cultural attractions, Foxwood Lake Estates provides an active retirement in the heart of Central Florida. Also, this charming 55+ community offers low-maintenance single-family homes that are attractive and affordable.
Highland Fairways
High $100ks – Low $300ks
Highland Fairways offers low-maintenance single-family homes, scenic golf course views, and an active, social lifestyle. Residents enjoy resort-style amenities including a clubhouse, an outdoor pool, tennis and shuffleboard courts, and access to a semi-private 18-hole golf course. The community also offers a full calendar of clubs, activities, and trips, plus a prime Central Florida location near shopping, dining, and recreation.
Lakes at Laurel Highlands
Mid $200ks – High $300ks
With four thoughtfully designed floor plans, this welcoming community is perfect for those looking to make the most of their retirement in the heart of Central Florida. Lakes at Laurel Highlands offers low-maintenance, single-story homes and resort-style amenities. Residents enjoy a modern clubhouse with a fitness center, social spaces, and an outdoor pool, along with scenic walking paths.
Sandpiper Golf & Country Club
High $100ks – Low $300ks
With over 1,100 attached and single-family homes, Sandpiper Golf & Country Club is a vibrant 55+ community. Residents enjoy access to two clubhouses, fitness centers, pools, tennis courts, and an 18-hole public golf course. A wide variety of clubs and social activities keeps life engaging, while the community’s convenient location between Tampa and Orlando offers easy access to shopping, dining, entertainment, and outdoor recreation.
Silver Lakes
Mid $100ks – Low $300ks
Silver Lakes is a gated 55+ community offering low-maintenance single-family homes. With just 148 homes, residents enjoy a close-knit atmosphere and amenities like a clubhouse, a fitness center, an arts and crafts studio, a junior Olympic-sized pool, and scenic walking trails. Located in Central Florida near I-4, Silver Lakes provides easy access to lakes, golf courses, shopping, dining, and medical services.
Let 55places Help You Discover Lakeland, Florida
So, is Lakeland, Florida a good place to retire? If what you’ve read has you thinking “yes,” let us help you take the next step. The experienced real estate experts at 55places are ready to guide you through your options, answer your questions, and connect you with the 55+ community that fits your lifestyle and retirement goals. Reach out today and start your journey to the perfect retirement in Lakeland!
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