Lakeland, FL Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Lakeland, FL: What You Need to Know

Lakeland in central Florida got its name from the 38 lakes in the area. The city is conveniently located halfway between Tampa and Orlando. 

Job Opportunities

Manufacturing and distribution, health care, and tourism are the pillars of Lakeland’s economy. Publix Supermarkets, one of the country’s biggest grocers, and Saddle Creek Logistics are based in the city. It’s also the location for distribution centers of Amazon, GEICO Insurance, Lockheed Martin, FedEx, and Pepperidge Farm. Other major employers include JBT FoodTech, Carpenter Co., Lakeland Regional Health, and Polk County Public Schools.

Things to Do Around Town

Over 140,000 people visit the Polk Museum of Art every year. Its permanent collection includes modern and contemporary art, Asian art, European Decorative Arts, African Art, and art of the ancient Americas. Lakeland’s annual events related to transportation attracts thousands of people. The SUN 'n FUN Aerospace Expo, one of the world’s largest aviation events, consists of a week-long exhibit, discussions, career fair, and an air show featuring a wide range of aircraft. The MIDFLORIDA Auto Show and Lake Mirror Concours draw car collectors far and wide for an exhibit of classic automobiles and a competition. 

Schools and Higher Education

There are three universities in Lakeland, including Florida Southern College (3,154 students), famous for its Frank Lloyd Wright architecture. He designed the campus, including 20 faculty houses, a planetarium, and chapels. The college houses a permanent display of furniture, pictures, and drawings depicting Wright’s special relationship with the college. Lakeland has 59 public schools serving 38,678 students. Lincoln Avenue Academy and Magnolia Montessori Academy are among the highly ranked schools.

Cost of Living

As if Lakeland’s (population: 112,136) beautiful lakes aren’t enough, it’s also an inexpensive place to live. The city’s cost of living rate, food, and housing costs are 6.2%, 11%, and 1.3% lower than the national average, respectively. The median gross rent is $968. The Sunshine State is known for its low taxes. In fact, it doesn’t collect any income tax. It levies 6% to 8.50% in sales tax.

Know Your Neighborhoods

Lakeland is both a college town and a retirement paradise. Residents love the art and entertainment scene downtown and the abundance of parks and trails. A big percentage (45%) of Lakeland residents rent. Those who are looking for great schools in the suburbs should check out Lake Hollingsworth and Lake Highlands, both a short drive from Lakeland. Lake Hollingsworth is known for its excellent amenities, and Lake Highlands for its safe and clean environment.