Lake City has been called many things over the years. To the Seminoles who settled this North Florida community, it was Alligator Town, dubbed for the Alligator Warrior who once served as chief. To the tourists who visit the nearby natural springs, it has become Florida’s Springlands. And to the travelers who pass through on their way to Disney World, it is Florida’s Gateway. But for those who simply call it “home,” this quiet, rural spot is the perfect location for country living. “Pickup trucks, hunting dogs and shotguns – that was my childhood,” says Chuck Brown, owner of Propertunity Real Estate Pros. Brown grew up on a chicken farm just outside Lake City and has sold homes in the community for 41 years. “When we went into town back then, we knew everyone,” he says. “That’s changed. Now, faces are less familiar but still friendly.”
Olustee Park holds a plaque of the history of Lake City, which was once called Alligator Town.
Lake City is a humble, quiet city, that anyone would be proud to call home.
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Florida’s Springlands
Lake City is surrounded by state parks, national forests and natural springs. Ichetucknee Springs State Park is about 20 miles south of the city and attracts around 200,000 visitors annually with its spring-fed river and natural, crystal-clear pools. Almost 30 miles northeast, Suwannee Springs is a hidden gem in the over 1,800-acre Suwanee River State Park. While there aren’t any natural springs within city limits, there are four big lakes. Lake Montgomery and Alligator Lake are favorites among local anglers. Alligator Lake anchors the Alligator Lake Recreational Area, which sprawls across 1,000 acres of wetlands and parkland, featuring picnic pavilions, trails and a playground. The verdant space offers a peak into the stunning greenery of the Osceola National Forest on the city’s east side.
Alligator Lake Park is a beautiful recreation area where you can fish or hike with your family.
Walk the trails at Osceola National Forest and enjoy the rich history of the area.
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Historic homes in Downtown Lake City
The median home price in Lake City is around $300,000, which is roughly more than $100,000 less than the national median. The city’s historic district, focused around downtown, features vintage ranch-style homes and bungalows built as early as 1900. Moving away from the heart of town, various planned communities, typically featuring New Traditional properties with open floorplans, developed between the 1980s and early 2000s.
Flood insurance and hurricane-proofing updates are recommended across Colombia County. Despite Lake City’s northcentral location, the community experienced widespread power outages, damages and flooding in 2024 due to Hurricane Helene.
There are quite a few bungalow Homes that can be found in Lake City.
Beautiful new traditional homes can be found in the Lake City area.
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Shopping and dining on Marion Avenue
Downtown Lake City is a quaint area focused around U.S. Route 441, locally known as Marion Avenue. The walkable strip is lined by local shops and restaurants, such as Marion Street Bistro and Brewhouse. Although its flatscreens aren’t exactly period-accurate, the gastropub champions Lake City history. It is situated in a century-old brick building with walls lined by old articles, vintage black-and-white photos and antiques. Interest piqued by the historic decor might lead visitors down the street to the Lake City-Columbia County Historical Museum.
The Marion Street Bisto is a popular place for people to eat and gather.
The Lake City Historical Museum is free to the public and has guided tours of the area's history.
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Colombia County Public Schools and Florida Gateway University
Lake City is served by Colombia County School District, which ranks No. 20 with an A-minus grade on Niche’s list of Florida’s best school districts. Higher education is on the city’s east side at Florida Gateway University. What started as a small forestry school in the late 1940s has grown into a community college with a strong industry, manufacturing, construction and transportation program.
Lake City Middle School take price in giving the students a quality education.
Florida Gateway College in Lake City is a state college offering four-year bachelor's degrees.
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Farms, ranches and major highways
Lake City developed as a hub for mixed farming after its incorporation, and those agricultural roots hold strong today. Getting in and out of town takes folks past dozens of ranches and farms. The green stretches border Interstate 10 and Interstate 75, which respectively run through the north and west sides of town. Downtown Lake City has a Greyhound bus station with direct routes to surrounding cities like Jacksonville, which is 60 miles east and has the closest international airport. Gainesville is roughly 50 miles south of town.
On the outskirts of Lake City, you will find many farms and ranches.
Interstate I-75 runs through Lake City and will take north to Georgia, or south to Tampa.
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Niche on Lake City crime
Although recent crime statistics for Lake City or Columbia County aren’t readily available, Niche grades Lake City a C-minus for crime and reports that crime in the city and county is significantly higher than the national average.
The Columbia County Sheriff's Office stands ready to protect the residents of Lake City and all of Columbia County.
The Lake City Police and Fire Departments are together in one building. in Downtown Lake City.
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Written By
Micaela Willoughby
Photography Contributed By
Lori Smith
Video By
TJ Wengert
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Daniel Gilland,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Lake City, FL sell after 40 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Lake City, FL over the last 12 months is $260,000, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Looking for "multi-family"property? This property offers "two separate dwellings". The main home boast 3,386 sq ft and features (2) master bedrooms with (2) master en suite bathrooms. Perfectly situated on just shy of 13 acres compliments a plethora of amenities with an immense amount of detail and labor of love. All the bells and whistles with no stone left unturned. There is also a 2nd dwelling
Looking for Residential living where the grass is always greener? This 2-acre parcel has been completely cleared and planted with Bahia grass. Enjoy the best of both worlds: rural living with convenient access to town. Whether you're planning to build your dream home, add a second unit, or invest in peaceful land, this property offers flexibility and value. According to Columbia County zoning,
Charming 2-bedroom, 2-bath home in a great retirement community. Very spacious with a large living room, dining room, and kitchen that are all open. New central air & heat system installed 2024, all new luxury vinyl plank flooring, new lighting throughout, and fresh paint on the inside and out! Enjoy a screened-in side porch on cool mornings and evenings. Benefits of the HOA: the use of a
Welcome to this stunning 2020-built home offering a luxurious 3-bedroom, 2-bath split floor plan with ample storage. Enjoy elegant LVP flooring, granite countertops, and a spacious kitchen island with barstools included—perfect for entertaining. Step outside to a beautifully fenced backyard ideal for kids and pets, plus a storage shed for added convenience. The garage features durable Shark
Like new, immaculate 2021 manufactured home on 2.5 acres. This 1458 sf home has 4 bedrooms and 2 baths with an open floor plan. Comes with two sheds, the bigger one has electric and insulation. Large master bedroom. Spacious utility room with plenty of space for storage. Enjoy the peace and quiet of living in the country on a dirt road while being just 20 minutes from Lake City & 15 minutes from
Nestled in the heart of Quail Heights Golf and Country Club with no HOA!. This beautifully updated all-brick home boasts a host of recent upgrades, including a New Roof, Septic System, Water Heater, Windows,Tile, Stainless Appliances, Cabinets and Countertops. There is also a bonus room for an office, media or guest room. The community offers serene views and access to a course that challenges
****Assumable 2.75% Mortgage**** For this one of a kind in Lake City, this luxurious 3 bedroom, 3 bath residence offers approximately 3,335 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space on a pristine half acre homesite. From the moment you enter, you are greeted by elegant travertine floors that flow throughout the home, custom lighting, and beautiful architectural details. The fabulous
Charming house in Downtown Lake City – A Great Investment Opportunity Nestled on a peaceful, single access paved road in the heart of Downtown Lake City, this beautifully renovated single-story bungalow offers 1,449 sq. ft. of heated living space (1,584 sq. ft. total). Originally built in the 1950s, this home has been thoughtfully updated with new flooring, windows, and modern finishes
Welcome Home to this very nicely updated 16x80 3Br/2Ba home on a beautiful 4.32 acre lot. This home is tucked away for your privacy, located off of a paved road and nicely cleared with a tree buffer from the road. Home features a beautifully updated kitchen with new cabinets and butcher block countertops, spacious rooms, luxury vinyl plank flooring, spilt bedrooms, metal roof, upgraded FHA
Spacious 3BR/3BA custom brick home offering 2,340 sq ft of comfortable living on 3.34 cleared acres. Built in 1987 and beautifully maintained, this property is perfect for anyone seeking country living with modern convenience. Bring your horses, chickens, or start the garden you’ve always wanted. The possibilities are endless on this open, usable acreage. Inside, you’ll find large, inviting rooms
Charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home located in an established Lake City neighborhood. This property features a functional floor plan with large living room and a generously sized laundry room that offers added storage and flexibility. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, and everyday amenities, this home is ready for its next owner to make it their own. Sorry investors, only Owner occupant
Unlock the full potential of this spacious floor plan that features 3 large bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and is only minutes from Lake City and I-75. Inside, you will find an open floor plan featuring a living room, dining room, kitchen with an island and pantry, as well as a family room. The 0.87 of an acre is cleared around the home, with the remainder in natural woods, paved road frontage, and
Now taking applications! Beautiful 2-bedroom apartments, in a friendly community. All units are $1,000.00 per month for a 12 month lease. We do offer 7 month leases for $1,050.00 per month. Each unit offers 2 bedrooms and 1, 1.5 or 2 bathrooms. 750 sq. ft. Includes kitchen appliances, eat-in kitchen, washer/dryer hookups. Keep cool in our community pool, and enjoy the playground on site. Easy
1BR/1BA rental on second floor with private outdoor staircase (to be installed). Completion mid-February. Features open living area, kitchen space, full bath with tub/shower, and spacious bedroom. One dedicated parking spot plus paved overflow parking available. Save on electric and water cost - Electric is $50 monthly to owner, Water is $25 monthly to owner.
Discover your new home at Sundial Apartments. This property is situated in the 32025 area of Lake City. Compare 0 to 1 bedroom apartments then schedule a tour. The professional leasing team is ready to show off our wonderful community. Start living the good life at Sundial Apartments. Contact us or stop in to discuss your new apartment.
An apartment in a GREAT location. Close to I75, lots of shopping, and restaurants. All tile flooring throughout. Included in the rent is Lawn care. This unit has laundry hookups and a private patio. This apartment won't last long!! Total to move in is $2300.00 Break Down: $1100.00 1st month's rent, $1100.00 Security Deposit, and $100.00 leasing fee. All properties require an application with a
The lifestyle you've been waiting for is at Amberwood Hills in Lake City, FL. Our 826 SW Amberwood Loop location in Lake City is a solid choice with plenty to see and do. Featuring 1 to 2-bedroom options with rents that range from $1025 to $1,250, your perfect match is waiting. Our friendly team is eager for you to come by for a visit. Call us to set up a visit today and find that perfect new
1 BED AND 1 BATH CONVENIENT TO HOSPITALS AND SHOPPING. THIS COZY 1 BEDROOM 1 BATH UPSTAIRS APT. HAS HIGH CEILINGS AND HARD WOOD FLOORS TO GO WITH ALL THE CHARM. INCLUDES WATER
Nate SweatMagnolia Real Estate Group of North FL LLC
Property Id: 2005003MOVE-IN READY!Come home for the New Year in this beautifully built home featuring ALL NEW energy-efficient appliances, fixtures, and a brand-new central heating & air conditioning system!? ALL-INCLUSIVE RENTAL PACKAGEIncluded in your rent:•Water & Sewer• Trash Service• Lawn Care• Pest ControlThat means no surprise
A REAL BEAUTY HERE HAS 3 BEDROOMS 2 FULL BATH WITH OVER 1400 SQ. FT. HAS SOLID FLOORING THROUGHOUT, A FENCED IN BACKYARD AND A NICE PATIO POOL OUT BACK. COMES WITH POOL SERVICE.
Property Id: 2341932This 4000 square foot single family home has 4 bedrooms and 3.0 bathrooms. This home is located at 294 SW Greenridge Ln, Lake City, FL 32025.
An apartment in a GREAT location. Close to I-75, lots of shopping, and restaurants. All tile flooring throughout. Included in the rent is Lawn care, Pest control, and a/c filter change. This unit has laundry hookups, a 1 Car Garage, and a private patio. This apartment won't last long!! The total to move in is $2400.00. Breakdown: $1150.00 1st month's rent, $1150.00 Security Deposit, & $100.00
Property Id: 2312079Welcome to Doe Run! This newly remodeled two-bedroom, one-bath home has a full size kitchen and bath. Comfortably sleeps four. Close to I-10 and downtown Lake City. With a lovely community area, you can relax in your own sanctuary.Security Deposit Due at signing. Water/Trash/Sewer $200.00 per month.
3 bedroom 1 and a half bath home on .95 of an acre. Property has just recently been remodeled, ceiling fans and no carpet all flooring is tile. No pets allowed
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