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
Michelle Smith,
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On average, homes in Lake Hamilton, FL sell after 77 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 $310,000, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Discover this dynamic Fraser home, ready for quick move-in! Included features: a covered entry; an elegant kitchen showcasing white 42" cabinets, stainless-steel appliances, a sizable island, and an open dining area; a comfortable great room; a stunning primary suite offering a generous walk-in closet and a private bath with double sinks; two secondary bedrooms with a shared bath; a convenient
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,
Discover the Linden at Scenic Terrace, an ideal setting for outdoor recreation and convenient shopping minutes away. This Linden delivers 2,434 square feet across two floors, with five bedrooms, three full baths, and a two-car garage. The main level opens into a great room, dining area, and kitchen that stretch nearly 40 feet, anchored by a large island and a walk-in pantry. The extended lanai
Welcome to your own private lakefront retreat on 1.23 acres along Lake Hamilton with NO HOA! This stunning 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers an exceptional combination of luxury, entertaining space, and the ultimate Florida waterfront lifestyle. Bring your boat and jet skis and enjoy the convenience of a private dock featuring an electric covered boat lift and built-in fishing bench. The outdoor
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Own the original model home that introduced buyers to Scenic Terrace! This stunning Magnolia floor plan by Taylor Morrison offers 2,106 square feet of beautifully designed living space featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and a 2-car garage. Showcasing premium model-home upgrades and designer finishes throughout, this home perfectly blends modern style, comfort, and functionality. The
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You’ll be delighted by all the thoughtful details of this single-family home. An open floorplan, spacious rooms and a gorgeous primary suite create a home that’s perfect for entertaining, raising a family and just making the most of every day.From the inviting front porch, a foyer leads to a large kitchen with adjoining dining area and family room, perfect for hosting guests, watching movies,
The Juniper offers the perfect blend of modern design and practical living. From its spacious two-car garage to a cozy outdoor lanai, this home accommodates all your living needs while keeping up with today’s style standards. Three main level bedrooms located at the front of the home have access to a dual vanity bathroom and a walk-in laundry room right across the hall—all thoughtfully designed
CASTAWAY MULTI-GEN: Beautiful 1 Level, 2 Car Garage Home with Open Concept Living and 3 Bedrooms! Featuring a Private Retreat: Whether it’s space for extended family, a private retreat for guests, or room to grow, these thoughtfully designed homes offer flexibility without added monthly costs.Designed for flexibility, the Castaway Retreat offers the ideal solution for extended family, guests,
Brand new, energy-efficient home available! Prepare dinner from this home's open kitchen which overlooks a spacious great room. Now selling from the low $300s, Hamilton Bluff Signature Series features new single-family homes in Polk County. Surrounded by scenic lakes, this community is located minutes away from Hwy 27, providing convenient to access major metro areas. Residents will have access
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Property Id: 1170192 Charming Historic Single-Family Home with 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, and a Detached garage almost as large as the house. Includes washer, dryer, refrigerator, stove, new granite countertops, and central A/C. Conveniently located within walking distance of City Hall, the Post Office, Police Station, Fire Station, and a Community Park. Rent: $1,390 / month. Security Deposit:
This home is move-in ready. Schedule your tour now or start your application today.Welcome to 1021 Church St in Haines City, FL, a 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offering 1,168 square feet of living space. Step inside to a spacious open living and dining area with fresh carpet flooring and plenty of windows for natural light. The front porch adds a welcoming entry point, while the comfortable
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
Be the first to live in this newly constructed 2026 duplex residence located in Haines City. Designed with comfort and privacy in mind, each residence offers approximately ample square feet of living space and features its own private entrance, electric meter, and septic system. Situated on a spacious fenced corner lot with no HOA, residents can enjoy a generous outdoor setting rarely
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This well maintained 2 bedroom, 1 bath is available for move in now. Lawn and exterior maintenance included. Tenant is responsible for water and utilities. Tile everywhere, no carpets and Central heat in air. In closet laundry included.Haines City is a growing area, and this corner unit is priced under market rent. Ideally located near shopping, dining, schools, and major roadways, making
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