You may be asking “why Lakeland?” From neighborhoods to schools to our favorite coffee spots, we’ve made it easy to answer this question by creating an ultimate guide to living, working + experiencing the city.
Becoming a new resident is easy with our Lakelander 101 guide to all things Lakeland citizenship.
Need that big backyard for the kiddos to roam? Or does a vibrant street scene draw you in? Our fun quiz will help you pick the Lakeland neighborhood that’s right for you.
From comedy shows and Broadway tours to local organizations supporting Lakeland’s arts community, we’ve rounded up 19 places to get your arts and culture fix around Swan City.
Explore the leading economic drivers in Lakeland, from exciting, new technology to top leaders in growing and distributing delicious eats.

A newcomer’s guide to Lakeland in partnership with the Lakeland Economic Development Council

Live
Becoming a new resident is easy with our Lakelander 101 guide to all things Lakeland citizenship.
In this guide to schools in Lakeland, we’ll explain all the options, including charter schools, school choice, demographics, enrollment information, and more.
Need that big backyard for the kiddos to roam? Or does a vibrant street scene draw you in? Our fun quiz will help you pick the Lakeland neighborhood that’s right for you.
From churches to mosques to synagogues to temples, Lakeland is home to a wide array of religious organizations.
Experience
From comedy shows and Broadway tours to local organizations supporting Lakeland’s arts community, we’ve rounded up 19 places to get your arts and culture fix around Swan City.
This list of volunteer opportunities in Lakeland includes everything from packing food for children in need to fostering pets.
We’re highlighting the top parks that Lakeland has to offer — complete with splash pads, playgrounds, WiFi, walking trails, and even a few dog-friendly spots.
There’s a reason they call it Lakeland. With 38 lakes, this guide takes a deep dive into the must-visit spots and how best to enjoy our city’s most iconic features.
Work
Lakeland has experienced abundant growth and development over the past several years. Check out the city’s 15 largest employers, and learn a thing or two about each of them.
Explore the leading economic drivers in Lakeland, from exciting, new technology to top leaders in growing and distributing delicious eats.
With many companies transitioning to hybrid or remote work models in recent years, Lakeland’s options for remote workers have continued to expand.
Need a new job or new connections for professional development? Try one of these networking opportunities in Lakeland to take the next step in your career.
This city boasts top-ranked medical providers and specialty services. Our comprehensive guide will help you find the care you need — whether you’re new to town or just looking around.
Whether you’re looking to shop, dine, or just enjoy Swan City without a car, we’re talking about our local public transportation + walkability.
Check out summer-themed events happening in and around Lakeland in this seasonal guide.
Finding the right school for your family can be a challenge — but we’re here to help. Check out our list of the top elementary, middle, and high schools in Lakeland based on Florida Department of Education ratings.
Canopy roads, bungalows, brick streets, and royal swans — you’ll find all this and more throughout Lakeland’s seven historic districts.
Learn about the historic places and faces that influenced the streets you drive every day here in Lakeland, FL.
Prepare for spring weather in Lakeland, FL with these seasonal temperature and precipitation outlooks.
While you really can’t go wrong in Swan City, this quiz will guide you to the perfect Lakeland neighborhood just for you.
Be a tourist in your own town. Get out and try these 11 fantastic tours of Lakeland and beyond to learn something new.
Lakeland history is the gift that keeps on giving. Read on for key moments in Swan City history.
Our town has become a regular star on the silver screen — how many of these movies have you seen that were filmed on location in Lakeland?
More from LALtoday
Whether you have students at Polk County Public Schools or you’re just planning around school breaks, keep these dates in mind.
Head east to the newly opened River Country Water Park for fun in the sun at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo.
Your home could have been built by a Lakelander of the past — and ordered from a catalog.
Pro tip: Leave the ugly sweater at home and opt for flip flops instead.
Get an exclusive look inside this downtown high-rise to see a collection of murals by seven Lakeland artists.
A new online tool shows the most notable celebrity from each birthplace on earth — these are the four highest-ranking stars from Polk County.
Check out the list of participating eateries to find a Burger Week deal near you July 18-27.
Check out these 13 hiking trails catered to all skill levels in and around Lakeland, Florida for outdoor adventures.
Tourism is one of Polk County’s top three industries, and you can help Visit Central Florida keep it growing through the Certified Ambassadors of Tourism and Sports program.
Before a planned redevelopment of Memorial Boulevard, Lakeland officials have approved a strategic plan and a nearby affordable housing development.