Wahneta offers more space and lower density than Winter Haven
The residents of Wahneta, a small community in Polk County, enjoy the perks of living close to Winter Haven, like shopping, dining and proximity to its Chain of Lakes, a series of interconnected lakes popular for activities such as tubing, water skiing, fishing and kayaking. Home to larger lots, Wahneta gives its 4,400 residents a little more space than in its tightly packed neighbor.
Homes range from $120K to $350K with no HOA fees
Common home styles in Wahneta are ranch, manufactured and New Traditional with three or four bedrooms. They sit on grass lawns, flanked by mature trees, along narrow residential streets. There are no HOAs in the community, so residents can park RVs and other vehicles on their property. Prices range from around $120,000 to $350,000, with homes on the higher end featuring more square footage or more land. When lots hit the market, buys can typically get just under a quarter acre for about $25,000.
Local students attend B-rated Polk County Schools
Polk County Public Schools serves the community and rates a B on Niche. Some options are C-rated Wahneta Elementary, C-minus-rated Westwood Middle and C-plus-rated Lake Region High. The district is one of the largest in the country, encompassing more than 120 schools and serving over 117,000 students. Controlled Open Enrollment and magnet school options are available.
Outdoor spaces include lakes, green parks and walking paths
Wahneta is close to several lakes, including Lake McLeod, making it easy for residents to enjoy all sorts of water activities, including boating and fishing. Wahneta Park and Lake Gwyn Park are green spaces near the heart of the community and both feature basketball courts, playgrounds and picnic shelters. Lake Gwyn Park also has a newly renovated wetland that includes an observation pier, walking trails and attracts birds and other wildlife. Lake Wales Ridge National Wildlife Refuge is on the community’s west side and is not open to the public.
Groceries and dining options line Rifle Range Road
Residents shop for groceries at La Plazita Mexico and Wahneta Supermarket, both off Rifle Range Road, the community’s main thoroughfare. Residents also pick up essentials at Dollar General. Dining out options include regional chain Hungry Howie’s, popular for its pizza and subs, and locally owned Diego’s Taqueria, a laid-back spot serving authentic Mexican dishes. Winter Haven Hospital and other medical offices are about 5 miles away.
Bingo and First Fridays in Winter Haven offer casual community fun
Winter Haven has regular events like Bingo Night at Bowen Yard, a popular outdoor space with food halls, and First Fridays, when restaurants and shops downtown stay open late and attendees enjoy dining outside while listening to live music.
Rifle Range Road connects Wahneta to nearby towns
Due to the lack of a fixed route bus line, residents get around by car. However, Citrus Connection buses have multiple stops in Winter Haven. Rifle Range Road connects to nearby communities. The closest airport is Lakeland Linder International, about 20 miles away.
Warm year-round weather with occasional hurricane risks
Summer temperatures are in the 80s and 90s, and winter temperatures are in the 70s. Hurricanes are possible. The county’s website has multiple resources to keep residents prepared for severe weather.
![Jeffery Palmer]()
Photography Contributed By
Jeffery Palmer
