The City of Coleman spans industrial and agricultural areas
Coleman has become a center for industry since its establishment in Central Florida in the 1880s as an agricultural city. “People are drawn to Coleman for its small-town charm, peaceful rural setting and convenient central location,” says Melissa Barnes, a broker associate with ERA Grizzard Real Estate, with over 23 years of experience. “Many appreciate the open space, lower cost of living and strong sense of community. It’s an ideal spot for those who want the tranquility of country living while still being close to shopping, dining and modern amenities,” she says regarding the city’s proximity to Lake Panasoffkee and The Villages master-planned community.
Residential areas with bungalows, ranch-style and manufactured homes
Bungalows and ranch-style homes are common near industrial areas. Many houses have two to four bedrooms and long driveways or an attached carport. Ranch-style home prices range from nearly $80,000 to $480,000. Bungalows are priced roughly between $100,000 and $230,000. Manufactured homes go for $40,000 to $380,000.
The CAP Index Crime Score in Coleman is 2 out of 10; lower than the national average of 4.
Center of industry and a crossroads for trains and Interstate 75
Farms, industrial parks and a low security Federal Correctional Complex are major local employers. Governor Rick Scott Industrial Park is home to the DZ Corporation, a manufacturing and concrete company. The park sits on Interstate 75, a road which, in addition to U.S. Route 301, connects the area to Tampa, about 70 miles south. Cargo trains travel through the city’s center, passing many industrial and commercial areas and a few residential areas. Some streets near the tracks may experience noise or traffic when trains pass. The University of Florida Health Brownwood Freestanding Emergency Room is approximately a 6-mile drive. Florida’s Turnpike runs nearby and ties Coleman to Orlando in around 55 miles, and Orlando International Airport is nearly 5 miles farther.
Local shops in historic storefronts and dining in The Villages
Coleman Crossing’s shops, which sell home décor, glass art and boutique clothing, occupy historic buildings once housing the city’s jail, post office and train depot. The Villages of Fenney, a nearby community, is home to Fenney Grill, a casual restaurant serving American fare. “Fenney Grille is not only a great restaurant right around the corner but also has a beautiful walking path with lots of beautiful nature to take in,” Barnes says. Magnolia Plaza in The Villages is a shopping center with a Publix, Reveille Café and Willie Jewell’s Old School Bar-B-Q.
Watersports, swamp excursions and trails at Lake Panasoffkee
Coleman Landing Park and Boat Ramp is the area’s western region, providing access to Lake Panasoffkee. “The spring-fed lake, surrounded by floodplain forests, offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping and paddling,” Barnes says. Lake Panasoffkee Wildlife Management Area has 18 miles of horse-friendly trails and over 8 miles of shared bike-friendly paths. “Swamp Fever Airboat Adventures and Tom and Jerry’s Airboat Tours provide thrilling swamp excursions and alligator sightings, while [Lake Panasoffkee’s] many fish camps, boat rentals and recreational vehicle parks reflect its strong fishing culture,” she says. Fenney Recreation Center in The Villages includes an outdoor pool and a billiards room. Since Coleman is outside the community, residents must get a guest pass.
Zoning and career and technical education in Sumter County schools
Coleman is in the northern region of the Sumter County School District, where elementary school attendance boundaries meet. As a result, students in Western Coleman may attend Lake Panasoffkee Elementary School, which earns a B-plus from Niche. Eastern Coleman is in the zone for Wildwood Elementary School, a B-graded school. Wildwood Intermediate School, which opened in 2023, serves fourth through sixth grade and does not yet have a Niche grade. Wildwood Middle High School, a seventh through 12th-grade institution, receives a B-minus. High school students may enroll in career and technical education courses, such as digital design.
