If you’re searching for a peaceful Central Florida town with history, nature, and beautiful sunsets—Lake Wales is calling your name. Located along the Lake Wales Ridge, this scenic city offers a slower pace, affordable homes, and the kind of classic Florida charm that’s getting harder to find.
Whether you’re retiring, relocating, or ready for more land and less stress, Lake Wales offers wide-open skies, small-town warmth, and a lifestyle that’s all your own.
Lake Wales is located in southeastern Polk County, about halfway between Tampa and Vero Beach. It sits on the Lake Wales Ridge, one of Florida’s few naturally elevated areas, surrounded by lakes, citrus groves, and nature preserves.
To Winter Haven: 25–30 minutes
To Sebring: 40 minutes
To Lakeland: About 45 minutes
To Orlando: About 1 hour and 15 minutes
To Tampa: Just under 1.5 hours
To LEGOLAND Florida: 35 minutes
With access to US-27 and SR-60, Lake Wales is perfectly placed for exploring both coasts and everywhere in between.
Life in Lake Wales is all about slowing down and soaking it in. From historic homes on oak-lined streets to new construction with conservation views, there’s a unique mix of housing here that fits every stage of life.
You’ll find:
Charming downtown districts with murals, shops, and local eateries
Established neighborhoods with mid-century homes on spacious lots
New construction communities offering modern layouts and great pricing
55+ communities and manufactured home parks with lake access and low maintenance
Acreage and lakefront homes—ideal for buyers looking for privacy or water views
Whether you’re into gardening, fishing, or just sipping coffee on the porch, Lake Wales gives you the room to live how you want.
Lake Wales may feel peaceful, but it still has everything you need—and then some:
Downtown shops, restaurants, and local businesses
Bok Tower Gardens – A national treasure for gardens, events, and concerts
Lake Wailes Park – With trails, a boat ramp, and scenic lakefront views
Eagle Ridge Mall & major retailers
Local hospital and medical centers
Public boat ramps, splash pads, and ball fields
Nearby LEGOLAND Florida and other family-friendly attractions
It’s the kind of place where community events, nature, and convenience all come together.
Lake Wales is part of the Polk County School District, but it also operates its own unique Lake Wales Charter Schools system, which includes several highly regarded campuses.
Top schools in the area include:
Hillcrest Elementary Charter School
Polk Avenue Elementary Charter
Lake Wales High School – Part of the charter system, known for academics and athletics
McLaughlin Middle-High School of Fine Arts – A magnet program focused on the arts
Bok Academy North and South – Top-rated charter academies for middle schoolers
Warner University – A private Christian college offering undergrad and graduate degrees
Webber International University – Located nearby in Babson Park
Parents love the small school sizes, community support, and alternative charter structure that gives students more options.
Lake Wales is a haven for outdoor lovers, with endless opportunities to hike, fish, paddle, and explore the real Florida.
Don’t miss these local favorites:
Bok Tower Gardens – A national historic landmark with lush gardens, music, and the best views in Central Florida
Lake Wailes Park – Home to walking trails, a boat ramp, disc golf, and seasonal festivals
Crooked Lake Prairie Preserve – Wildflower hikes, birdwatching, and peaceful picnics
KICCO Wildlife Management Area – Horseback riding and off-grid adventure
Spook Hill – A quirky local mystery where your car seems to roll uphill!
With lakes, hills, and trails all around, Lake Wales offers fresh air, quiet days, and plenty of reasons to get outside.
Lake Wales is one of Polk County’s most affordable markets, offering great value for buyers who want charm, land, or lake access. The market includes resale homes, buildable lots, and a growing number of new construction options.
Median Home Price: Around $265,000 as of early 2025
Time on Market: Homes typically sell in 35–50 days
New Construction: Steady growth, especially east of US-27 and near SR-60
Rental Market: Stable, with long-term rentals averaging $1,500–$2,000/month
Whether you want a vintage fixer-upper or a new home with a warranty, Lake Wales offers one of the best price-per-square-foot deals in Central Florida.
Lake Wales has something for every budget, from first-time buyers to those looking for lakefront luxury or wide-open land:
Starter homes and vintage bungalows can be found for $200K–$275K
Mid-range homes with modern updates or newer builds range from $275K–$375K
New construction homes in growing communities average $325K–$450K
Lakefront homes or homes with acreage can range from $400K to $600K+
Manufactured or mobile homes on land are still available from $140K–$225K, depending on location and lot size
Vacant lots for custom building start around $20K–$75K+
Whether you’re looking for a full-time home, a weekend escape, or an investment property, Lake Wales gives you flexibility and space to grow.
If you’re ready for fresh air, friendly neighbors, and a front-row seat to Central Florida’s natural beauty, Lake Wales might be just what you’ve been looking for. With lakeside charm, a strong community vibe, and homes that still fit the budget, it’s the perfect blend of affordability and Florida lifestyle.
What’s Next for Two Rivers? Golf, Growth & Lifestyle Expansion
Which Village in Two Rivers Fits Your Lifestyle?
Which Village in Two Rivers Fits Your Lifestyle?
Why Two Rivers is Zephyrhills’ most sought after new home community?
Discover Two Rivers in Zephyrhills—an 1,800-acre master-planned community offering new construction homes, scenic trails, resort-style amenities, and a short commute to Tampa. With villages designed for every stage of life, from first-time buyers to forever homes, Two Rivers is where lifestyle meets location. Explore your perfect fit in this nature-connected, amenity-rich neighborhood today.
Carla Goddard
Team Lead
License Number SL3392494
Broker Number BO2031053
813-716-4498
267511 SR 56
Wesley Chapel FL
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