Introducing: New to Lakeland

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.

Lake-Mirror---BeFly-Bike-Tours---biking-Lake-Mirror-2.jpg

Lake Mirror is one of the many lakes residents + visitors can take a ride around.

Photo by BeFly Bike Tours

Lakeland, Florida. Yes, we have our fair share of lakes as the name implies. And we may be a little obsessed with birds and royalty in the Swan City (don’t worry, we’ll explain that later).

The people who live here, however, would tell you there is so much more to discover about one of the country’s fastest growing cities.

In Lakeland, you’ll find a community genuinely connected to our authentic roots and Florida lifestyle, but also proactively evolving to anticipate the needs of our diverse, innovative, and growing number of residents.

The team that has brought you LALtoday has put together this ultimate guide to help those who may be asking, “Why Lakeland?” Whether you’re interviewing for a job in Lakeland, searching for a place to live that will enhance your quality of life, or you’re already here and want to learn more about the community, this guide is meant for you. And all you longtime Lakelanders might even discover something new about the city you call home.

This guide is categorized in a way to give you insight into the most frequently asked questions about our community, how to live like a local, find your community within the community, and hear from real people who live here.

More from LALtoday
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LALtoday readers shared which local restaurants + meals spark deep nostalgia — and we think you’ll agree.
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This interactive map can help you determine how walkable certain blocks are to destinations like supermarkets, parks, restaurants, and schools.
Learn what Lakelanders could expect in terms of the cuisine, experience, and opening timeline should the plan get approved.
Add some Lakeland flair to your Thanksgiving spread with classic dishes from these Swan City restaurants.
It’s not such a small town anymore — check out how Lakeland’s growth is reflected in rankings from the past year.
This list of volunteer opportunities in Lakeland includes everything from packing food for children in need to fostering pets.
Find a unique gift by local vendors, artists, and makers at these holiday-themed markets in and around Lakeland.
Here’s how you can help the family of restaurant owner Jeannie Weaver-Lopez.