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.
1/2
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.
1/3
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.
1/4
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.
1/2
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.
1/2
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.
1/3
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.
1/2
Written By
Matt Pallister
Video By
Victoria Sharpe
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Glenda Starn,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Lake Hamilton, FL sell after 112 days on the market compared to the national average of 50 days. The median sale price for homes in Lake Hamilton, FL over the last 12 months is $328,497, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Under Construction. Begin your next chapter in this stunning new construction home located in the charming Scenic Terrace! Explore the vibrant the spacious and inviting Marshfield plan. This two-story home features an open great room that flows into a charming dining area, perfect for gatherings. The kitchen dazzles with stylish cabinets, striking granite countertops, and stainless steel
Under Construction. Discover unparalleled comfort in this exquisite home situated in the serene Scenic Terrace! Step into the Quail Ridge Plan -- this delightful home features an open living room that flows into a beautifully designed dining area and kitchen, perfect for gatherings. The kitchen is the heart of the house, boasting elegant cabinetry, granite countertops, and stainless steel
Under Construction. Discover modern luxury with in the sought-after Scenic Terrace! The Cambria Plan is a 2-story home that seamlessly blends communal and private spaces, ideal for both entertaining and relaxing. The sleek kitchen showcases beautiful cabinetry, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances, including a smooth-top range, microwave hood, and dishwasher.The main floor
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 Florida’s fastest-growing areas. The location provides easy access to major routes, making it ideal for personal use and future development. The
1. Curtis Campbell, The Seller is Jim Campbell, the Listing Agent's Brother.This house is the very definition of: Fixer-Upper.This home, built in 1946, is ready to be Up-Dated and Modernized.If you like the challenge of home improvement and have an eye for remodeling, this may be the opportunity that you are looking for.2. The Seller will consider Owner Financing is the Buyer is
Welcome to this beautifully updated 4-bed, 2-bath home perfect for both entertaining and relaxing. Enjoy open living and dining areas, a spacious kitchen with modern appliances, and a split-bedroom layout offering privacy. The master suite features a soaking tub, separate shower, and dual sinks. Additional highlights include an office/den, new hurricane windows, a new roof, upgraded plumbing, a
Freshly updated and move-in ready, this 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offers a low-maintenance lifestyle, with freshly painted interiors and new flooring throughout—completely free of carpet. Whether you’re a small family, a professional, or someone looking to downsize without sacrificing comfort, this layout delivers just the right amount of space and functionality.An open-concept floor plan
Located in the heart of picturesque 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 accessible with the Haines City Mall and Publix just 8 minutes
Step inside this stunning home to find elegant vinyl plank flooring that flows seamlessly throughout the open-concept living space. The modern kitchen features sleek quartz countertops and brand-new stainless-steel appliances, overlooking the dining area and outdoor patioperfect for entertaining. A handy half bath is located on the main level for guests, while upstairs, you'll discover a spacious
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
