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
Omar Andreasen,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Lake Hamilton, FL sell after 69 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Lake Hamilton, FL over the last 12 months is $319,999, down 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Under Construction. BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES with use of Seller's Preferred Lender.Check out the Indigo, a spacious two-story, 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom, 2-car garage home perfect for growing families or hosting guests. Enter the impressive foyer with soaring ceilings that creates an immediate sense of openness. From the foyer, the home
This contemporary home is assured to to catch your eye as you enter through the 8' exterior doorway. Preeminent luxury 7"x22" Wood-Look Tile Flooring graces the main walkway, dining, kitchen, and great room areas. Upgraded great room, bathroom & laundry room windows enhance this homes natural light on sunny Florida days. Ultra modern stainless steel GE appliances, white quartz countertops,
Spacious and accommodating, the one-story Fraser features an open-concept floorplan with 3- bedrooms. Just off the entryway, you'll find a secluded area for work or storage space, next to garage entry. Toward the back of the home, a large Primary Suite is ready for you with it's ensuite Bathroom, shower enclosure and double vanity. The family room flows into an inviting kitchen with a center
Schedule your appointment and learn more about this quick move-in opportunity with an immediate move-in date! This home includes: - Granite countertops in the kitchen - Quartz in bathrooms - All appliances included - Tile floor in the main living area - Brick paver driveway and leadwalk - Lanai - Stone exterior.
Schedule your appointment and learn more about this quick move-in opportunity with an immediate move-in date! This home includes: - Granite countertops in the kitchen - Quartz in the bathrooms - All appliances included - Tile in the main living area - Brick paver driveway and leadwalk - Lanai - Stone Exterior - 2-story
Step into the foyer, where two bedrooms with a shared bath are located at the front of the home. As you continue down the hallway, you’ll pass the laundry room and access to the two-car garage before entering the open-concept kitchen, family room, and dining area. A covered patio sits just off the dining space, and tucked away on the opposite side of the family room is the primary bedroom,
ATLANTIC: Beautiful Single Level, 2 Car Garage Home with Open Concept Living and 3 Bedrooms! The Atlantic plan is available in Coastal, Farmhouse or Traditional exterior designs. The front entry and the private garage entry open to the foyer with an optional drop zone. A well-appointed island kitchen is centered between the cafe and the family room with access to the lanai. The primary suite
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. The advertised photos may differ from the home's exact finishes and are only a representation of the home. Located in the heart of scenic Polk County, centrally located between Orlando and Tampa, this neighborhood offers the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and charm. Scenic Terrace is ideally situated next to Scenic Terrace Elementary
Entering from the front porch, you step into the foyer, where two bedrooms greet you at the front of the home—each featuring a walk-in closet and sharing a full bath. As you continue down the hallway, you'll pass a coat closet, the laundry room, and access to the two-car garage. The layout then opens into the kitchen, family room, and dining area, creating a welcoming space for everyday living. A
Feel at home with the Magenta, a single-story home with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage. This layout is a true gem, seamlessly blending modern comfort with Florida charm. Open concept living dazzles with luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the main living areas. The kitchen, featuring quartz countertops, new stainless-steel appliances and ample storage overlooks the dining and
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Under Construction. BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATES with use of Seller's Preferred Lender.Check out the Indigo, a spacious two-story, 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom, 2-car garage home perfect for growing families or hosting guests. Enter the impressive foyer with soaring ceilings that creates an immediate sense of openness. From the foyer, the home
Ready Now! Discover the charm of the Atwood model at Hamilton Bluff – a beautifully designed 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with 1,598 square feet of modern living space. This one-story split floor plan offers both privacy and functionality, ideal for families or those who love to entertain. Enjoy a spacious open concept layout with a seamless flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas. Step
The Turquesa is the ultimate family haven, a two-story home featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and a private 2-car garage. This home offers an open concept living space designed for both relaxation and entertainment. The half bathroom off the foyer ensures every guest feels at home while the extended foyer opens to the main living and dining area. Featuring luxury vinyl plank flooring and
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Under Construction. Located in the heart of scenic Polk County, centrally located between Orlando and Tampa, this neighborhood offers the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and charm. Scenic Terrace is ideally situated next to Scenic Terrace Elementary and Middle School, making it easy to get to and from school. Everyday essentials are
Meet the Esperanza, a single-story, multi-generational home designed for modern living with flexibility and comfort. This 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom, 2-car garage home features a separate multi-gen suite with its own bathroom and kitchenette, ideal for extended family or guests. The spacious layout offers distinct areas for gathering and relaxing, including an open-concept living and dining space
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
We make Pre-Leasing easy! Apply now and, once you’re approved, take this home off the market by paying a Pre-Lease Hold Fee; ask your Leasing Professional for more information. Once the home is made ready, we'll notify you that it's available for touring and for you to accept or decline. If you decline the home, we'll be happy to help you find a different home or refund your Hold Fee. This home
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
FOR RENT beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bath home, new construction, located in the desirable Scenic Terrace community.Features include stainless steel appliances, washer and dryer, a whole-house water purification system, quartz countertops, vinyl flooring, and high cathedral-style ceilings that provide a bright and open feel. Enjoy a covered patio with access through sliding glass doors, perfect
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
Welcome to this brand-new 4-bedroom, 2-bath single-family home, built in 2025 by Taylor Morrison, located in the desirable Scenic Terrace South community in Lake Hamilton. The popular Cypress model features a spacious open-concept layout, tile flooring throughout, quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances. The property backs to an open area with no rear neighbors, offering extra privacy.
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
This stunning, newly constructed property has never been lived in, offering a fresh start with modern finishes throughout. Enjoy an open and bright floor plan, spacious living areas, and a beautifully designed kitchen perfect for entertaining. The home is move-in ready and located in a peaceful, well-kept community.Bonus: High-speed internet is included, making it ideal for remote work,
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,
Olga Rocio Forero PA, PAEXP REALTY LLC
$1,845 per month
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,623 Sq Ft
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Welcome to this well-designed 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home offering 1,623 square feet of thoughtfully arranged living space in Haines City. The exterior features a clean, modern faade with an attached garage and inviting curb appeal. Inside, highlight a bright, open-concept layout with neutral finishes and durable flooring throughout the main living
Tammy ThompsonHOMERIVER GROUP
$2,075 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
Tammy ThompsonHOMERIVER GROUP
$2,040 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 March 15, 2026. Lease shall reflect Actual Base rent. Base Rent $2,140.00 with $100.00 off each month for 14 months!!This well-designed 4 bedroom 3 bathroom home offers 1,941 square feet of thoughtfully planned living space at 2527 Cardamom Ct in Haines City, Polk
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