Lake Hamilton prepares for change amid Polk County growth
Growth is encroaching on Lake Hamilton, a small town set amid the natural landscape of Central Florida. “All throughout Polk County, up and down Highway 27, the orange grove owners are selling off their land,” says Barbara Heddon, a Realtor with Century 21 Myers Realty in nearby Haines City. “We’re the fastest-growing county in the nation. It’s a popular place to be.” As growth spreads slowly but surely into the county’s rural enclaves, Lake Hamilton is ready to adjust as needed. “We see the growth all around us. It’s right on our doorstep,” says Chris Kirby, senior planner for the Town of Lake Hamilton. “But we’re trying to get ahead of the infrastructure and not be behind it so we’re ready for it. It’s a work in progress.” Ongoing residential development is the clearest sign that change isn’t simply on the way, it has arrived.
Lake Hamilton remains an up and coming area that floats the line between the peaceful rural and
Residential growth is concentrated in planned subdivisions lined with contemporary custom homes.
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Town's changing face illustrated by new home construction
Residential growth is concentrated in planned subdivisions dotted with sidewalks and populated with contemporary custom homes offering private driveways and attached garages. The town recently a held a ribbon-cutting for a new wastewater treatment plant, a significant infrastructure addition prompted by the ongoing construction and influx of new residents. Smaller traditional and ranch-style homes built primarily from the early 1960s to the early 1970s on spacious lots are prominent among the town’s established housing, which also includes acreage homes in the more rural areas of town. Prices typically range from the mid-$200,000s to the mid-$500,000s. The largest and most architecturally distinct homes, many of which include private piers and boat slips, are located along the shores of Lake Hamilton. The variety of housing options and the recent growth have made for an increasingly diverse group of residents. “Lake Hamilton attracts a mix of people,” says Angie Garcia, a Realtor with RE/MAX Heritage Professionals. “We have a lot of retirees from up north, but we also have a lot of couples and people who are still working. It’s a small town, but a great place for a big family.”
Larger estate homes on the banks of Lake Hamilton
Customize your own home how you want it in one of the new planned communities. With many home op
This European cottage style home brings a distinctive charm to the Lake Hamilton neighborhood.
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Anchored by a brewery, Port 27 will be the town's first mixed-use development
Another obvious sign of growth can be seen at Port 27. Anchored by a craft brewery that was producing beer by the spring of 2024, it is the town’s first mixed-use development. Located on the lakefront, plans include the addition of commercial shops and eateries, with an opening date slated for the summer of 2024. It’s a big addition and quite a change for a town that has long been home to a single restaurant. That lone eatery is Floridino’s Italian Kitchen, which has been serving up authentic specialties since 1988. Other retail and dining options can be found just south of town along Scenic Highway U.S. 27. Davidson of Dundee is a Polk County institution known for its candy and jams. The Dundee Diner is a popular breakfast destination that always draws a crowd. Nearby Dollar General and Winn-Dixie provide convenient shopping options.
Port 27 an up & coming development will offer a family friendly hot spot full of entertainment.
Dive into the delicious deep dish pizza at Floridino's located on the banks of Lake Hamilton.
Davidson of Dundee is a family-owned factory that has been making delicacies since the 1960's.
Residents of Lake Hamilton can grab their grocery essentials from the local Winn-Dixie.
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Still a small town rooted in tradition
Kirby assures prospective homebuyers that despite the growth, the town will maintain its small-town appeal. And Lake Hamilton remains rooted in tradition. A recent spaghetti dinner was held at the Lake Hamilton Woman’s Club to provide an update on Port 27. The club has been hosting community events at its quaint clubhouse building, a town landmark, for more than 100 years. “We’re a small town that’s big on community,” Kirby says. “We have a Fourth of July celebration, a Christmas celebration where we set up screens and watch Christmas movies, and we are moving forward with more downtown events, where we have music and vendors.”
The quaint clubhouse building is a downtown landmark that hosts public and private events.
With an expansive menu Floridino's offers something for everyone in the family.
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Recreation on the lake is a staple of the community
The lake for which the town is named forms much of the western border and is part of the northern system of Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes, all of which are connected by canals. “We have a lot of lakes, a LOT of lakes,” says Kirby. "So you don’t have to go to the Atlantic or the Gulf Coast to enjoy the outdoors and recreation on the water.” Fishing is especially popular on the lake, which is large enough to accommodate plenty of boating as well. Traditional green spaces are limited, but residents have access to basketball courts and a playground at Gunter Park.
With Lake Hamilton a large landmark in the neighborhood residents frequent the water on weekends
Fishing is a huge pastime in Lake Hamilton and the surrounding area with most owning boats.
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Students attend public schools in Dundee, Haines City
Students can attend Dundee Elementary Academy, a magnet school rated B-minus by Niche; Shelley S. Boone Middle, a C-minus-rated school; and Haines City Senior High, a C-plus-rated school that offers academy courses in subjects as varied as environmental agriculture and technology, media production and performing arts.
Dundee Elementary Academy is a public school in Dundee, FL.
Shelley S. Boone Middle School is a public school located in Haines City, FL.
Haines City Senior High School is a public high school in Haines City, FL.
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Centrally located between Tampa and Orlando
The town’s location blends rural comfort with accessibility to larger metropolitan areas. “It’s a great place to relocate because it’s between Tampa and Orlando, which are about 45 minutes in either direction,” says Kirby. “You’re close enough to enjoy the benefits of those cities without all the hustle and bustle.” Both Tampa and Orlando have international airports. In addition, Lakeland is 25 miles directly west. Polk County’s largest city is home to a buzzy downtown dining scene and cultural attractions that include the Florida Children’s Museum and the campus of Florida Southern College, a national landmark that is home to 13 buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the largest single-site collection of the famed architect’s work.
Lakeland is 25 miles directly west. Polk County’s largest city is home to a buzzy downtown area.
Florida Southern College, a national landmark designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
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Written By
Matt Pallister
Video By
Victoria Sharpe
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jennifer Sarria,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Lake Hamilton, FL sell after 71 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Lake Hamilton, FL over the last 12 months is $318,975, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to your dream home nestled in the picturesque Lake Hamilton neighborhood of Polk County, where comfort meets convenience. This charming community is ideally located between Orlando and Tampa, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a blend of suburban tranquility and urban accessibility. With Scenic Terrace Elementary and Middle School just a stone's throw away, families will
Welcome to your dream home in the picturesque Lake Hamilton community of Polk County, where comfort meets convenience. Nestled between Orlando and Tampa, this charming neighborhood offers an ideal backdrop for family living. Scenic Terrace is conveniently located near Scenic Terrace Elementary and Middle School, ensuring easy commutes for students. Everyday essentials are just a short drive away,
Welcome to the Seaton II, a stunning single-family home nestled in the picturesque neighborhood of Scenic Terrace, located in the heart of Lake Hamilton, Polk County. This community offers a delightful blend of comfort and convenience, with easy access to essential amenities such as Haines City Mall and Publix, just eight minutes away. Families will appreciate the proximity to Scenic Terrace
Discover a rare opportunity to own 13.91 +/- acres of prime land in the heart of Polk County. This expansive property offers unmatched flexibility and is perfectly positioned on a corner lot at Detour Road and Lake Hatchineha Road in one of Central Floridas fastest-growing areas. The location provides easy access to major routes, making it ideal for personal use and future development. The
***Gorgeous Fully Renovated Lakefront Home! No HOA or CDD fees *** Step into timeless elegance with this beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 2-bath home situated on a .33-acre lakefront lot with 60 feet of sparkling water frontage. This home features modern luxury, offering an open-concept layout filled with natural light and serene bass-fed lake views. The chef-inspired kitchen features granite
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Move-in ready in Haines City near Lake Hamilton! Built in 2018, this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home at 264 Hidden Lake Ln offers comfort, efficiency, and a prime location along the rapidly growing US-27 corridor in Polk County. Featuring a 2-car garage, open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, and a desirable split-bedroom layout, this home is
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1. No HOA. 2. New Roof-Summer-2025. 3. Curtis Campbell is my Brother. 4. This Mid-Century home is the very definition of: Fixer-Upper. 5. This Bungalow was built in the 1940's and is ready to be Up-Dated and Modernized. 6. If you love the challenge of Home Improvement and have a Stylish Eye, this may be the Opportunity that you are looking for. 7. The Seller may consider Financing. 8. Call me to
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BRAND NEW HOME located in a desirable and growing Haines City community. This spacious residence features 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a loft, offering a functional layout suitable for comfortable everyday living.The open-concept floor plan includes a modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, ample cabinet space, and a bright living and dining area. The primary suite offers a walk-in
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Brand New 5-Bedroom Home for Rent in Lake Hamilton – Modern Comfort & Prime Location Welcome to this stunning brand new two-story home located in the desirable area of Lake Hamilton. Designed with comfort and functionality in mind, this spacious residence offers 5 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, making it the perfect rental for families or anyone seeking generous living space in a prime location. The
Be the first to live in this new construction home, where modern design meets everyday functionality. The open-concept interior features durable luxury vinyl floors, premium quartz kitchen countertops, stainless steel appliances, the convenience of three full bathrooms, including a first-floor bath with a walk-in shower. Upstairs, 2 spacious bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. The exterior boasts an
Brand New Home for Rent in Charming Haines City. Discover this beautiful, newly constructed home located in the charming and fast-growing city of Haines City. This spacious property offers 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and 1 half bath, providing comfort and functionality for modern living. The home features a 2-car garage and sits on an excellent lot with a generous backyard, perfect for outdoor
Modern 3-bedroom, 2-bath home located in the Scenic Terrace community of Lake Hamilton. Built in 2024, this property features 1,615 square feet of open-concept living space designed for comfort and functionality. A covered rear porch offers a quiet outdoor area for relaxing or entertaining. The primary suite includes a private bath and walk-in closet. Additional highlights include a 2-car garage,
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Beautiful Brand New Home!!! Be the first one to occupy this stunning Edison two-story home is host to an open-concept layout that combines the kitchen with the living and dining areas, and an outdoor patio is easily reached off the main living space. Upstairs, five bedrooms surround a versatile loft, including the luxe owner’s suite, complete with a generous walk-in closet and en-suite bathroom
Yanet Sanchez TapiaLIV REALTY II INC.
$2,045 per month
4 Beds
3 Baths
1,941 Sq Ft
**MOVE IN SPECIAL TERMS: $1,400.00 in Free Rent prorated over 14 months as a monthly rent reduction with Lease start date by April 30, 2026. Lease shall reflect Actual Base rent. Base Rent $2,145.00 with $100.00 off each month for 14 months!!Welcome to this stunning two-story residence located at 2506 Cardamom Ct in Haines City, Florida. Boasting a spacious and thoughtful layout, this 4
Tammy ThompsonHOMERIVER GROUP
$2,040 per month
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,050 Sq Ft
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Welcome to 2538 Cardamom Ct, Haines City, FL 33844, a well-appointed two-story home offering 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and approximately 2,050 square feet of living space in Polk County. The exterior presents attractive curb appeal with a modern faade and an attached two-car garage. Inside, the home features an open and functional layout designed
Prepare to be impressed by this delightful 1-year-old home located in the beautiful Scenic Terrace community! This property is packed with value — solar panels (low or no power bill!), internet, landscaping service, and an entire home water filtration system are all included.The desirable Sanibel floor plan offers a bright, open layout featuring a spacious great room that flows into the
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