Building Your Future in Lake Wales

Welcome to our new blog, dedicated to showcasing the vibrant and rapidly growing community of Lake Wales, Florida. Whether you’re a local resident, a potential homebuyer, or simply curious about this charming town in Polk County, we’re here to provide valuable insights into what makes Lake Wales special. In this inaugural post, we’ll explore the city’s growth, affordability, unique natural features like the Lake Wales Ridge, and its revitalized downtown with historic murals and a lively farmers market. We’ll also highlight major upcoming projects, the iconic Bok Tower and its gardens, and why Lake Wales is an ideal place to call home. Stay tuned for future posts on neighborhoods, local events, and homes for sale in this exciting area.

Why Lake Wales?

Lake Wales is a hidden gem in Central Florida, blending small-town charm with modern development. With a population of approximately 16,000, the city is strategically located at the crossroads of State Road 60 and U.S. Highway 27, offering convenient access to major hubs like Tampa (about 60 miles west) and Orlando (about 50 miles northeast) while retaining a peaceful atmosphere. Established in 1911–1912 by the Lake Wales Land Company, the city has roots in citrus and tourism but is now diversifying with industries like manufacturing and construction, as noted by the Central Florida Development Council. Its growth trajectory makes it an appealing destination for families, retirees, and professionals alike.

Growth and Development

Lake Wales is experiencing a surge in development, positioning it as a hub of opportunity. One of the most significant projects is the recent acquisition of 4,158 acres by Richland Communities, a developer known for large master-planned communities. Purchased for $50 million, this land southwest of Lake Wales, near the Lake Wales Municipal Airport, could potentially host nearly 3,000 new homes and 4 million square feet of industrial space. While no immediate plans have been confirmed, this project reflects confidence in the area’s growth potential. However, past proposals for this site faced opposition due to environmental concerns, as parts of the land are flood-prone and home to endangered species, highlighting the need for balanced development (LakeWalesNews.net).

Another transformative project is the proposed Central Polk Parkway East, a toll expressway that would connect State Road 60 to US 17-92, with potential extensions to Interstate 4. Led by the Florida Turnpike Authority, this road aims to alleviate traffic congestion on the busy US 27 corridor, improving connectivity to metro Orlando. The project has sparked both support from developers and skepticism from residents concerned about environmental and community impacts (LakeWalesNews.net).

Other developments include the annexation of 558 acres west of US 27 for the Lake Wales Commons, a mixed-use project with single-family homes, apartments, and commercial spaces (The Ledger). The city’s commitment to sustainable growth is evident in initiatives like the Lake Wales Envisioned Charrette, set for April 2025, which will gather community input to shape future development while preserving the city’s character (City of Lake Wales).

Affordability

Lake Wales is notably affordable, with a cost of living lower than 98% of Florida cities and towns, according to community insights (Nextdoor). This affordability makes it an attractive option for those relocating from high-cost areas like Miami, Tampa, or out-of-state regions. Housing options are diverse, with new construction homes starting in the mid-$200,000s and resale properties offering excellent value.

The Lake Wales Ridge and Bok Tower

Lake Wales is uniquely situated on the Lake Wales Ridge, a geological feature formed over a million years ago as ancient islands. Reaching elevations of up to 295 feet at Bok Tower and 312 feet at Sugarloaf Mountain, the ridge offers scenic views, a slightly cooler climate, and a natural buffer against flooding—a significant advantage in Florida (Wikipedia). The ridge is an ecological treasure, hosting rare and endemic species, with Highlands and Polk counties ranking among the top in the U.S. for biodiversity (Lake Placid Chamber). Conservation efforts, such as those at the Lake Wales Ridge Wildlife and Environmental Area, protect this delicate ecosystem, making it a draw for nature enthusiasts (FWC).

A defining landmark of Lake Wales, visible on the skyline while driving through town, is the historic Bok Tower, a 205-foot neo-Gothic and art deco singing tower completed in 1929. Often referred to as the “Singing Tower,” it houses a 60-bell carillon that performs daily concerts, filling the air with serene melodies. The tower, designed by architect Milton B. Medary and adorned with intricate sculptures, stands as a testament to the vision of Edward W. Bok, who gifted it to the American people. Surrounding the tower are the Bok Tower Gardens, a 250-acre sanctuary featuring lush landscapes designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr., vibrant flower gardens, and trails that showcase the area’s natural beauty. The gardens attract visitors year-round, offering a peaceful retreat and cultural events, making Bok Tower a cherished symbol of Lake Wales’ heritage and natural splendor (Bok Tower Gardens).

Downtown Lake Wales

The heart of Lake Wales is its historic downtown, a vibrant area undergoing revitalization to create a walkable, cultural hub. The downtown features stunning murals coordinated by the Lake Wales Murals and Enhancement Board, depicting the city’s history. Notable works include a restored city scene from the 1920s and 1930s by artist Lisa Moore and a mural at the library honoring R.T. “Tom” Nelson (City of Lake Wales). The Lake Wales Downtown Farmers Market, held on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month from 9 am to 1 pm at the Downtown Marketplace, offers fresh produce, artisan goods, and a lively community atmosphere (City of Lake Wales). The 3rd Thursday Market on Stuart Avenue adds to the vibrancy with crafts and food trucks (Lakeland Mom).

The Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is driving projects like the Market Plaza Design, which aims to enhance public spaces and activate Historic Downtown Lake Wales (City of Lake Wales). These efforts ensure that Lake Wales remains a place where history and progress coexist, fostering a strong sense of community.

New Communities and Homes for Sale

Lake Wales is a hotspot for new construction, with builders like Lennar, Southern Homes, D.R. Horton, LGI Homes, and KB Homes developing communities to suit various lifestyles. Lennar’s Hunt Club Groves offers move-in-ready homes starting in the mid-$200,000s.

Southern Homes provides customizable floor plans, while D.R. Horton and KB Homes contribute affordable options for first-time buyers (New Home Source). KB Homes’ Reserve at Forest Lake offers townhomes starting at $240,000, adding to the variety of options. Robin’s Run by KB Home is another community bringing new homes to the area near Sunset Drive.

Resale properties are abundant, with over 400 homes listed on the local MLS, ranging from an affordable $50,000 mobile home in a 55+ community to a $5 million 8 acre estate on Lake Kissimmee, offering options for every budget.

Community	Builder	Starting Price
Hunt Club Groves	Lennar	$266,000
Robin’s Run	KB Home	$262,000
The Meadows at Belle Lago	Century Complete	TBD
Reserve at Forest Lake	KB Homes	$240,000
Lake Wales Commons	TBD	TBD
Stoneridge	TBD	TBD

Why Consider Moving to Lake Wales?

Lake Wales offers a compelling combination of affordability, natural beauty, and community spirit. Its strategic location ensures easy access to major highways, making it ideal for commuters, while its small-town feel provides a peaceful retreat. The Lake Wales Ridge, iconic Bok Tower, vibrant downtown, and ongoing development projects make it a standout choice for those seeking a high quality of life. Whether you’re drawn to the ecological wonders, cultural vibrancy, or affordable housing, Lake Wales has something for everyone.

Are you ready to make Lake Wales your home? Submit your information below to explore new construction homes by builders like Lennar, Southern Homes, D.R. Horton, and KB Homes, or discover resale properties tailored to your needs. Start your journey to homeownership in this growing and welcoming community by contacting us today.

Stay Tuned

This is just the beginning of our exploration of Lake Wales. In future posts, we’ll dive deeper into specific neighborhoods, highlight local events like the farmers market or community festivals, and provide updates on new developments and homes for sale. Thank you for joining us, and we look forward to sharing more about this wonderful community in the heart of Central Florida.