In recent years, Lakeland has welcomed some incredible homegrown businesses that chose this city as their base and inspiration. These businesses enlarge our identity as a community, add to our flavor, and change the way we eat, shop, work, and live as a city. To celebrate the crafted goods these entrepreneurs create, The Lakelander proudly presents its sixth year of Lakelander Made.
As the biggest city between Tampa and Orlando, Lakeland continues to be nationally recognized for its rich quality of life, job growth, and exceptional job market — no wonder it’s one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the country. Alongside its natural landscapes and booming downtown development, Lakeland offers dynamic real estate options throughout its many neighborhoods.
There are a number of factors to consider when determining where to live. Schools, amenities, home price, and location are among the few constant variables that matter to homebuyers. So, as many continue to plant themselves as official Lakelanders and hunt for the perfect home, we’ve compiled an easy-to-use guide filled with expert advice from Keller Williams agents to help you better navigate some of Lakeland’s best neighborhoods.
Beacon Hill
Historic District // Central Lakeland
Brian Stephens · Neighborhood Expert
I have been helping families buy and sell real estate in Polk County for over 23 years. Growing up in a family of a homebuilder, I was born into real estate and have experienced its multiple aspects. Communication is key in the real estate world; I value my clients and want to serve them in the highest capacity. As your realtor, I want to be someone you can trust who has the experience and integrity to walk you through the process. I would love to assist you the next time you are selling or buying your next home!
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Schools
Lakeland Christian School, Southwest Middle School, Dixieland Elementary School, Lakeland Senior High School
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Parks
Lake Morton, Lake Mirror, Barnett Family Park, Hollis Garden
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Price Per Square Foot
$151
ARCHITECTURE
Believed to be named after the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood in Boston, this area is comprised of a unique and distinct blend of architectural styles, including Craftsman bungalows as well as Colonial and Tudor Revival homes.
Rhoads Stephens Real Estate Group
863.647.8600
brianstephens.org
Christina
Gated Communities // South Lakeland
David Scoynes · Neighborhood Expert
David Scoynes is a seasoned agent and real estate marketing expert who has been helping clients, colleagues, and industry leaders develop and implement the best marketing strategies for more than 18 years. David’s full-service real estate team works with buyers, sellers, and investors across Central Florida. While there is no property type or price point out of their reach, the true heart of his business lies in the many successful relationships that he has built throughout the years.
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Schools
Scott Lake Elementary, Lakeland Highlands Middle School, George Jenkins High School [/column]
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Parks
Loyce E. Harpe Park, Christina Park [/column]
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Price Per Square Foot
$142
ARCHITECTURE
This deed-restricted community is a varied neighborhood comprised of homes from a multitude of styles and time periods. Houses in this area may include waterfront property and large lots for family-sized outdoor spaces. Newly constructed custom homes, condominiums, and upscale executive homes also span this area.
Southern Bay Group
863.398.5060
southernbaygroup.com
Cleveland Heights
South Lakeland
Christine Ehlenbeck · Neighborhood Expert
We are a select team of experienced real estate professionals, dedicated to providing the highest level of knowledge and service for our buyers, sellers, and investors. We understand the many different types of moves that can happen in life, and we are well equipped to help you achieve your goals, no matter what your Next Step may be. With a proven record of success, our team prides itself in earning your business and trust, as your Realtors for Life. We are consistently a top producing team in the area.
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Schools
Peterson Park, Cleveland Heights Golf Course, Dog Leg Woods, Common Ground Park, Beerman Family Tennis Complex [/column]
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Parks
Cleveland Court Elementary School, Carlton Palmore Elementary [/column]
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Price Per Square Foot
$117
ARCHITECTURE
Cleveland Heights is the connector of Central Lakeland to South Lakeland. Most homes are originally from the 1940s and go up in generations the further south you travel. Originally starting out as double lots, many of the homes were separated and then resold. Thus, newer homes are often next to older homes throughout this neighborhood.
Next Step Home Team
863. 617. 8544
nextstephometeam.com
Deer Brooke
South Lakeland
Matt Kish · Neighborhood Expert
I take my profession very seriously and work hard to bring you the most value that a real estate agent can bring. After nearly 10 years of helping the community in healthcare, I stepped out of my scrubs and into a real estate opportunity. I love everything that real estate is about, and I am dedicated to making myself the most educated realtor in the business. Growing up in Lakeland, I have an expanded knowledge of the area and want to pass this on to others. I would love to meet with you so we can discuss how I can best help you and your family.
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Schools
Medulla Elementary School, James W. Sikes Elementary School, R. Bruce Wagner Elementary School[/column]
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Parks
Seven Wetlands, Christina Park, Diogi Dog Park [/column]
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Price Per Square Foot
$132
ARCHITECTURE
The homes range in size and price, giving every family an option. Deer Brooke was first developed in the 1980s, and homes are still being built to this day, giving a unique look to every street.
The Kish Group
863. 698. 5858
nextstephometeam.com
Dixieland
Central Lakeland
Brian Stephens · Neighborhood Expert
I have been helping families buy and sell real estate in Polk County for over 23 years. Growing up in a family of a homebuilder, I was born into real estate and have experienced its multiple aspects. Communication is key in the real estate world; I value my clients and want to serve them in the highest capacity. As your realtor, I want to be someone you can trust who has the experience and integrity to walk you through the process. I would love to assist you the next time you are selling or buying your next home!
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Schools
Dixieland Elementary, Lakeland Christian School[/column]
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Parks
Lake Hunter, Dobbins Park, Lake-to-Lake Bike Path [/column]
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Price Per Square Foot
$185
ARCHITECTURE
Believed to be named after the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood in Boston, this area is comprised of a unique and distinct blend of architectural styles, including Craftsman bungalows as well as Colonial and Tudor Revival homes.
Rhoads Stephens Real Estate Group
863. 647. 8600
brianstephens.org
Eaglebrooke
Gated Communities // South Lakeland
Christine Ehlenbeck · Neighborhood Expert
We are a select team of experienced real estate professionals, dedicated to providing the highest level of knowledge and service for our buyers, sellers, and investors. We understand the many different types of moves that can happen in life, and we are well equipped to help you achieve your goals, no matter what your Next Step may be. With a proven record of success, our team prides itself in earning your business and trust, as your Realtors for Life. We are consistently a top producing team in the area.
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Schools
Scott Lake Elementary School, Lakeland Highlands Middle School, George Jenkins High School[/column]
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Parks
Seven Wetlands, Carter Road, Loyce E. Harpe Park, Diogi Dog Park [/column]
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Price Per Square Foot
$148
ARCHITECTURE
Homes with spacious floor plans, luxurious swimming pools, and 2+ car garages make up this serene gated community. A wide variety of architectural styles and floor plans can be found in Eaglebrooke, and newer development is still available to build out custom homes to accommodate any style.
Next Step Home Team
863. 617. 8544
nextstephometeam.com
Grasslands
Gated Communities // South Lakeland
Kristin Kellin · Neighborhood Expert
The Kellin Group takes a different approach to real estate, one that is built on personal touches, win-win deals, and positive results. Whether you are investing in real estate or simply trying to renovate and yield a higher return on your home, we listen, and that means we find solutions that are tailored to you. Kristin Kellin and The Kellin Group utilize the latest technologies, market research, and business strategies to exceed your expectations. We specialize in buying, selling, leasing, and property management. Your housing needs deserve the care of a team of specialists. Call Kristin today!
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Schools
Lakeland Senior High School, Lakeland Christian School, Dixieland Elementary School, Resurrection Catholic School, Sleepy Hill Middle School, St. Paul Lutheran Church[/column]
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Parks
Lakeland Parks & Recreation Facility, Westside Park Grasslands also includes on-site walking, biking, and running paths. [/column]
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Price Per Square Foot
$201
ARCHITECTURE
Located on one of Lakeland’s most premier golf courses, Grasslands includes a wide variety of homes with luxurious amenities and elegant design. Home styles include townhouses, condominiums, villas, and executive homes.
The Kellin Group
863.409.5649
kristinkellin.yourkwagent.com
Highlands
South Lakeland
Ginger Quirk · Neighborhood Expert
Ginger Quirk has been a realtor since 2012 and practices realty alongside her husband, Eddie. Ginger’s team of 10 agents, “The Ginger Quirk Team,” is a relationship-based group of real-estate professionals serving the Central Florida community. Ginger recently earned her broker’s license last year and values her customers first and foremost.
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Schools
Valley View Elementary, Highlands City Elementary, Lakeland Highlands Middle, George Jenkins High School, Highlands Grove Elementary School, Geneva Classical Academy, Highlands Christian Academy[/column]
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Parks
Banana Lake Park, Lakeland Highlands Baseball Park, Christina Park, Lakeland Highlands Scrub, Loyce E. Harpe Park [/column]
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Price Per Square Foot
$157
ARCHITECTURE
There is a wide variety of architectural styles in the Highlands since many homes are custom built. Many of the homes include spacious floor plans, luxury features, and lush landscaping.
The Ginger Quirk Team
863.430.5111
Lake Hollingsworth
Central Lakeland
Christina Moore · Neighborhood Expert
Trusted Local Real Estate EXPERT Christina Moore helps all who want to buy, sell, or invest in real estate in Lakeland and surrounding areas. Christina LOVES Lakeland and the Lake Hollingsworth Area. She moved to Lakeland in 1998 to attend Florida Southern College for a Marketing degree. Christina is a Listing EXPERT and has been a licensed real estate agent for 10 years. She is also a real estate investor who has been remodeling and flipping homes in a family partnership for 15+ years.
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Schools
Southwest Middle School, Crossroads School, St. Joseph’s Academy, Florida Southern College, The Roberts Academy, Lakeland High School, Harrison School for the Arts, Lakeland Montessori Middle School, Magnolia Montessori School, Geneva Classical Academy, Cleveland Court Elementary, Little Sprouts Preschool, Florida Southern Preschool[/column]
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Parks
Common Ground Playground, Horney Park, Handley Park, Lake Hollingsworth jogging path, Lakeland Country Club, Born Learning Trail, Handley Park[/column]
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Price Per Square Foot
$163
ARCHITECTURE
An established neighborhood filled with unique, luxurious, and often recently renovated homes, Lake Hollingsworth features Victorian architecture as well as brick homes, older bungalows, and Mediterranean-style houses.
The Moore Team
863.430.8517
christinamoore.kw.com
Lake Morton
Central Lakeland
Brian Stephens · Neighborhood Expert
I have been helping families buy and sell real estate in Polk County for over 23 years. Growing up in a family of a homebuilder, I was born into real estate and have experienced its multiple aspects. Communication is key in the real estate world; I value my clients and want to serve them in the highest capacity. As your realtor, I want to be someone you can trust who has the experience and integrity to walk you through the process. I would love to assist you the next time you are selling or buying your next home!
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Schools
Crossroads School, Lakeland Christian School, St. Luke’s Christian Academy and Preschool Philip O’ Brien Elementary, Lakeland Montessori Middle School, Crystal Lake Middle School, Sleepy Hill Middle School, Lakeland Senior High School[/column]
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Parks
Lake Morton, Lake Mirror, Barnett Family Park, Hollis Garden, Frances Langford Promenade [/column]
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Price Per Square Foot
$195
ARCHITECTURE
Lake Morton has been highly regarded for its architectural integrity and historical elements. Homes here are predominantly Mediterranean Revival style and Craftsman bungalow style, along with Federal Colonial style and the English Arts and Craft Tudor style.
Rhoads Stephens Real Estate Group
863.647.8600
brianstephens.org
North Lakeland
Chad Karr · Neighborhood Expert
Chad is an experienced, dedicated, and insightful professional with 15+ years experience selling real estate with a comprehensive approach to selling, buying, and investing. He aims to deliver a low-stress, end-to-end homeownership experience for home sellers, buyers, and investors. He truly believes that homeownership leads to personal and financial stability which in turn translates to a thriving community. He follows a work-by-referral methodology, so his greatest asset is the relationships he builds and nurtures over time. Chad had a strong 2020 year with nearly $12 Million in Closed Sales Volume.
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Schools
R. Clem Churchwell Elementary School, Lake Gibson Middle School, Lake Gibson Senior High School, Lakeland Elementary School of Choice, Sleepy Hill Elementary School, Victory Christian Academy, Kathleen High School[/column]
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Parks
Crago Park, Douglas M. Cook Park, Lake Parker Park, Hunt Fountain Park, Sandpiper Golf Course, Wedgewood Golf Course, Huntington Hills Golf Course[/column]
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Price Per Square Foot
$195
ARCHITECTURE
North Lakeland offers homes from gated communities to lakefront property and everything in between. There is a wide variety of floor plans and architecture that make up this varied area of the city.
Chad Karr
863. 860. 3620
Scott Lake
South Lakeland
David Scoynes· Neighborhood Expert
David Scoynes is a seasoned agent and real estate marketing expert who has been helping clients, colleagues, and industry leaders develop and implement the best marketing strategies for more than 18 years. David’s full-service real estate team works with buyers, sellers, and investors across Central Florida. While there is no property type or price point out of their reach, the true heart of his business lies in the many successful relationships that he has built throughout the years.
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Schools
Scott Lake Elementary School, Lakeland Highlands Middle School, George Jenkins High School[/column]
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Parks
Scott Lake, Banana Lake Park, Christina Park, Peterson Park, Dog Leg Woods[/column]
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Price Per Square Foot
$143
ARCHITECTURE
With spacious estates overlooking one of Lakeland’s beautiful Lakes, homes in this neighborhood showcase a variety of architectural styles, from Mediterranean influences to top-of-the-line finishes on executive homes.