$242,282Average Value$184Average Price per Sq Ft39Homes For Sale
"A lazy little Southern town"
Fort Meade, Florida, is a historic settlement and the oldest city in Polk County. It’s named after Army Lieutenant George Meade, who settled the area in 1849. Amid the cattle farms and citrus groves, change has come slowly to Fort Meade, but that can be an attraction of its own. “It’s a lazy little Southern town that has been the same for 50 years,” says Realtor Nell Nelson of Florida Land Office LLC. “And some people like that.” Fort Meade Chamber of Commerce Director Russell Hancock adds, “It’s a very rural area with a quiet, small-town atmosphere. It’s a great place to raise a family.
Named after the man who put it on the map, Fort Meade is a historic settlement in Polk County.
Fort Meade’s small downtown district along Broadway Street remains loyal to its historic past.
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A downtown straight from the late 1800s
Fort Meade’s small downtown district along Broadway Street remains reminiscent of the city’s late-1800s heyday. Fort Meade Main Street focuses on preserving the local history while moving forward economically. It was named the 2023 Main Street program of the year by Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd. Small, independent businesses — furniture and antique shops, a tattoo parlor, a gunsmith and others — line a strip near the railroad. Broadway intersects with U.S. Route 17, itself home to several notable businesses. These include Kiki’s Egg House, a popular breakfast stop, and John’s Drive-In, which serves classic American dinner favorites. “We have to go to either Bartow or south to Hardee County for most shopping,” Hancock says. This requires a quick drive up or down Route 17.
Downtown Fort Meade features several independent businesses.
Locals can enjoy some lunch in the sunshine next to the historic train engine.
Kiki’s Egg House is a popular breakfast spot for Fort Meade Locals.
John's Drive-In serves classic American diner fare.
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Canoeing and kayaking on the Peace River
Much of Fort Meade’s growth has come from ecotourism. The Peace River offers an array of water-related activities. As one of the first locales in Florida to be designated a “Blueway” city, Fort Meade has become a haven for canoers, kayakers and paddle boarders. It is also a stop on the 67-mile Peace River Paddling Trail. Patterson Park is another spot for outdoor recreation in Fort Meade. Built around three lakes that were once phosphate mines, the 17-acre park offers a pair of docks for fishing and a paved trail along the water.
The Peace River offers an array of water-related activities such as kayaking and fishing.
Fishing is a popular pastime along the Peace River.
Once an old phosphate mine pit Patterson Park located in Fort Meade offers residents a great place to enjoy nature and fishing off the banks.
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From 55-and-older communities to historic farmhouses
A checkerboard of gridded residential streets surrounds Fort Meade’s two main roadways. Midcentury ranch-style homes are common throughout the city, while large farmhouses on sizeable plots appear occasionally. Two 55-and-over mobile home communities occupy the city’s eastern section: Fort Meade Estates and Oakview Lakes. The latter features a nine-hole golf course and access to a nature trail along Peace River. Mobile homes start at around $20,000 for two-bedroom units needing updates. Turnkey detached houses typically cost between $200,000 and $800,000, depending on square footage, lot size and upkeep.
Fort Meade offers a mixture of home types from all ages of architecture.
Oakview Lakes offers great affordability for its home lease manufactured homes.
New home construction brings a taste of modernness to a historical city.
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Two public schools serving all students
Lewis Anna Woodbury Elementary School accommodates kindergarten through fifth grade on two campuses. It has nearly 600 total students and a C rating from Niche. About 800 sixth through 12th graders attend Fort Meade Middle-Senior High School, which has a B. Students can develop skills in construction, hospitality, business and other trades in the school’s career academies.
Lewis Elementary School's goal is to provide high-quality education for all students.
Fort Meade Middle Senior High School is a public school located in Fort Meade, FL.
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Community gatherings under the stars
Patterson Park hosts several community events, including a youth fishing tournament in July and a Halloween costume contest. Other holiday events include Fourth of July fireworks and a Christmas parade. Every spring, the Fort Meade Chamber of Commerce hosts Moonlight & Music on Main Street. Several musical acts perform at this free event, including the Fort Meade Middle-Senior High School chorus and band. “It’s just a fun, relaxing family event. We have a few food trucks, and businesses downtown stay open during,” Hancock says.
Fort Meade locals often take U.S. 17 to shopping areas in Bartow and Bowling Green.
A straight shot to Lakeland
Route 17 takes drivers about 22 miles north into Lakeland. It also connects to several routes to Tampa, which is about 40 miles east of Fort Meade.
Written By
John Battiston
Video By
Jarrod Bock
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Fort Meade, FL sell after 103 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Fort Meade, FL over the last 12 months is $265,450, up 16% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
**$5100 PRICE REDUCTION as of 4/7/2026!!** Brand-new build in the heart of historic Fort Meade, FL! This gorgeous 3-bedroom, 2-bath block home combines modern construction with classic small-town charm and curb appeal that stands out from the street. Step inside to an open, bright floorplan wrapped in natural light. The kitchen anchors the home with stainless steel appliances, stylish cabinetry,
Your Dream Home Awaits!Welcome to this stunning property where country charm meets modern elegance. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be captivated by the exceptional curb appeal, setting the stage for the beauty within. Step into unparalleled luxury and farmhouse-style living with this breathtaking 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home, set on 3.17 acres. This meticulously renovated property, offering
Ask about assumable rate of 3.25% Motivated Seller! Welcome to 400 Wilson St NE in Fort Meade, FL—a charming and versatile property offering space, freedom, and no HOA restrictions. This 2-bedroom, 1 full bath, 1 half bath home features 1,329 sq ft of living space on a generous 0.29-acre lot. Inside, you’ll find a functional layout with an attached garage, while out back you can enjoy the covered
WIDE OPEN SPACES! What would you do with over 50 acres of prime land? Motivated seller. Your country retreat and peaceful life are waiting.Two beautiful parcels of leveled land near Hwy 17/98 in Fort Meade ready for one lucky buyer or developer. There is a 12 inch well near the center of the property. Much of the east property line backs up to picturesque pond views. Minutes from major
Short Sale. United States Bankruptcy Sale. This is a lender initiated short sale through the United States Bankruptcy Court System. All offers are subject to Lender and Court Approval. SOLD AS-IS SUPER CUTE HOME with a clean-up needed but ALL the BIG-Ticket things are done! This 3 bedroom and easy could be made into a 4 bedroom and a den is Located in Historic Fort Meade in a quiet and peaceful
Updated 3 bedroom 2 bath MH. Kitchen 13 x 8, Dining 8 x 6, Family/Living room 21 x 14, Fl Screen room, 21 x 11, Master bed 13 x 11, 2nd bed 12 x 10, 3rd bed 11 x 8, Shed inside work shop 11 x 11. Gutters and inside laundry. Lot rent includes Water Sewage Trash and Lawn Maintenance.
Nestled in the peaceful countryside of Fort Meade, Florida, this 5.54 acre vacant land parcel on Old Bowling Green Road offers an excellent opportunity for rural living or agricultural use. With wide-open spaces, privacy, and scenic country views, the property is ideal for building a custom home, placing a manufactured home, or creating a small hobby farm. And additional adjacent acreage is
Nestled in the peaceful countryside of Fort Meade, Florida, this 5.54 acre vacant land parcel on Old Bowling Green Road offers an excellent opportunity for rural living or agricultural use. With wide-open spaces, privacy, and scenic country views, the property is ideal for building a custom home, placing a manufactured home, or creating a small hobby farm. And additional adjacent acreage is
PRICE REDUCED!! Cleared, oversized vacant lot... ready for immediate development w/ potential to subdivide. This property presents a unique opportunity to maximize your return. Ample space for your custom home and outdoor living. Located in a desirable rural residential area. Secure your future in Ft Meade, Florida today.
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. This BRAND-NEW BLOCK CONSTRUCTION home is a must-see!!! Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a 1-car garage on a spacious lot offers over 1,300 sq. ft. of living space. Step inside to discover an OPEN FLOOR PLAN that seamlessly connects the living room, dining area, and kitchen, creating the perfect space for everyday living. Enjoy LUXURY VINYL
Discover this 5 +/- acre homesite property located on Singletary Road in Polk County, FL. The property has paved road frontage with power at the road. This property is ready for your vision with a culvert and driveway already in place for easy access, and a wooden fence along the road frontage for privacy.The majority of the property offers a natural setting of palm thickets while there
Discover this charming duplex offering two separate units, each featuring 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom, ideal for investors or owner-occupants looking to offset their mortgage. Both units showcase updated flooring throughout, creating a warm and cohesive feel, along with neutral interior tones that make each space move-in ready. Each unit includes a functional kitchen with ample cabinet space, a
Step into this newly renovated home in Fort Meade – a move-in ready opportunity you don’t want to miss! Enjoy year-round comfort with a brand-new A/C system, a new tankless water heater, and a new roof. Inside, the home features all-new luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the main living areas, complemented by plush new carpet in the bedrooms for added comfort.The completely renovated
Property Id: 2431769Discover comfort and convenience in this beautifully updated apartment located in one of the most desirable areas of town. Nestled in a friendly, walkable neighborhood, this cozy rental is just steps away from the local general store, grocery store, quick dining options, and the vibrant downtown district.Enjoy the perfect blend of modern living and small-town
Welcome to these charming One-Bedroom, One-Bath First-Floor Apartments with updated kitchens and bathrooms, central A/C, off-street parking, with both tile and carpet, and a NEW ROOF!! 2 apartment unit available #505 & #517. Available Immediately, NO PETS. Rent is $990.00 per month, ($960.00 rent, plus a $30.00/month water/sewer utility fee.) The total amount needed to move in,1st-month rent,
Remodeled 2 Bdrm apartment on shady treed area in quiet well kept neighborhood .close to city hall post office, fire de, sheriff, ace hardware, Mc Donald’s, Wa Wa, Dollar store, Grocery shopping, laundry mat, community center, bust stop and very safe friendly neighborhood.
Step into this stunning brand new duplex designed with modern living in mind. The open-concept layout creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for entertaining or relaxing at home. The kitchen boasts sleek granite countertops and stainless steel appliances, making meal prep a joy. Both bedrooms are generously sized, with two full bathrooms for added convenience. Enjoy the durability and
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