Lived in Lakeland Florida, whole life. 50 years, husband and I are selling our Knoxville Tennessee home we bought 6 years ago and coming back home next February to our Lakeland fla. Home sweet home.
I get a real kick out of people who come to Florida then complain about the heat and lock themselves indoors with the A/C set on freeze. As for bugs, roaches and mosquito's, Florida is sub-tropical you should expect bugs and as for the mosquitos Florida mosquitos are tiny whereas Jersey mosquitos are the size of trucks. If you love the noisy nightlife stay in the big cities and you'll get a hefty dose of crime free along with the nightlife. Nowhere in Florida is 'walk friendly' and public transportation was designed by idiots and there's no such thing as pleasure driving, driving in Florida is no pleasure. Hurricanes are a fact of life in Florida, pay your money, take your chances.
I have lived here in lakeland 33 years and I love it and will never live anywhere else. Lakeland is amazing and that is why is growing so fast, also we have Sheriff Grady Judd. People here are nice and if you are worried about drugs remm there is California as an option for you. There is drugs everywhere and I have never had a problem because we have great police and sheriffs. I also love the fact that we don’t have all that night life and is family friendly. I feel safe living here. Lakeland is home ❤
I’m a pilot about to be based in Orlando. I am looking for a safe, quieter area with decent schools where my aging parents can come down and relax by the pool. I already live in FL and can deal with everything you mentioned already (except I do hate the palmetto bugs with a passion 😂). I’m torn between Ocala, Gainesville, Lakeland, Winter Haven, Sanford, and possibly a few places on the east coast like St Augustine or Sebastian. Do you find it to be a good place for someone who wants to settle and start a family?
Lots of good choices in your list, I can answer all of your Winter Haven/Lakeland questions. I’ve helped a bunch of people bring their families here. Reach out with any questions! 863-333-5053 or Ben@HavenRealtyFL.com
Florida has been my second home and post-retirement snowbird plan since the '70s. Snowbird 1.x & Snowbird 2.x with my first wife were for the Clearwater area; widowed since '03, reconnected with an acquaintance from childhood since 2016, the second greatest love of my life is co-author of Snowbird 3.x in Lakeland. The post-COVID modifications are called Snowbird 3.2 now.
Thank you, @LivingInLakelandFL Joy & I are both semi-professional singer / songwriters, and we're establishing The Holidays / John & Joy Holiday as a stage name. My first wife, Jan (1961-2003) was also quite talented musically (🎤+🎸+🎹). Being re-introduced in 2016 was a huge surprise for both of us, and the mutual friend behind that reconnection hadn't realized that we had already met 35 years earlier (among other times when our paths crossed briefly in between). Yesterday was a significant anniversary for us too.
Thank you again, @LivingInLakelandFL ! I'm not expecting much of a 'career' since we're both in our 50s now; but it would be great to work part-time 'dialing in mixes' for other artists and accepting invitations to participate as 'session musicians' occasionally. If I remember correctly, there's a studio right in Lakeland too. I'm thinking 'part-time Winter job' and still spending Summer with relatives here in NE Ohio. I'm still working on convincing my parents to join us, and my brother will be eligible for retirement from his main career soon. I'm a retired electrician, and Joy currently works in retail management.
Lakeland is very nice. My husband and I are retired and spent our winter there last year. We plan on returning in a couple of months. We will reach out once we are there. We are looking to move there.
Glad you hear you like it! Reach out when you are ready, I’m here to help. I have a few insurance brokers I can set you up with so we can get the best deal for you😃
My brother has now been living in Lakeland for almost 20 years.... and he says he'll die here 😂..... I would consider moving to Lakeland in the near future .....doing my research
Two things we strongly agree on. Skin-So-Soft (by Avon) is the best insect repellent ever made and smells great! You're the first guy who's mentioned it since I lived in D.C. Great for your skin too. Put some in a little Dollar Store sprayer and put it in your car. And, I can't for the life of me figure out why they would block off two incredibly needed lanes of S. Florida Ave. That is so ridiculous and they're going to have to change that back. I've heard the arguments in favor of it and they are simply wrong. One of their arguments is pedestrian safety. No one is running over sidewalk pedestrians anywhere else on Florida Ave., that's absurd and you can't even park there. They just built these dangerous concrete obstructions in the road that look like shit and will tear your car up if you're not careful. I like the growing airport, even though I haven't been on a plane since before 9/11 and probably won't again, but they built that nice 7-11 across the street and they have great hot dogs and I'm right off Airport Rd! I'm so easy to please, and a cheap date. They built up a lot over there and seem to keep going toward County Line Rd. I just happened to take photos before they did and they'll bring a lot of jobs here. Maybe a couple of them might pay that $7000 a month you said it takes to live here in your other video! I had a comment on that one also, but on this one, I really didn't see any of those things that bad, except Florida Ave. and anyone not knowing what that comment meant wouldn't understand it. I'm a mobile auto detailer so I work out in this stinking heat, but I also have a water hose and trust me, I use it on myself. I don't know how these construction workers make it. Thanks for the video!
Is there a part of town you recommend that’s better for luxury apartments? Moving to that area from Lake Nona because of work. Or Winter Haven. I’m a renter and have a young child.
Hey! I use to live in the apartments at lakeside village that is now called Town Center and enjoying being right there. There are also apartments on Bay Street downtown lakeland that are supposed to be nice. In Winter Haven there’s Raindance apartments that just opened up. If none of those fit the bill let me know and I’ll see what else I can remember 😃
🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:00 *🌞 Weather and Environment* - Living in Lakeland, Florida means dealing with extreme heat and humidity. - Sunscreen and hydration are essential due to high temperatures and humidity. - Mosquitoes and roaches are prevalent, requiring preventive measures like bug spray and screened areas. 02:33 *🌃 Nightlife and Entertainment* - Lakeland lacks a vibrant nightlife compared to larger cities like Tampa and Orlando. - Limited options for late-night activities, although some bars and music venues are open until 2 AM. - Nearby cities offer more extensive nightlife options for those seeking a lively entertainment scene. 03:42 *🚶 Walkability* - Lakeland's walkability score is generally low, requiring most residents to rely on vehicles for daily errands. - While some neighborhoods allow walking to amenities, many areas are spread out, necessitating transportation. - Limited walkable areas may inconvenience those accustomed to pedestrian-friendly communities. 04:24 *🏠 Population Growth* - Lakeland is experiencing rapid population growth, attracting residents from various states due to affordability and amenities. - The city's affordability compared to neighboring urban centers is a significant draw for newcomers. - Increased demand for housing and services reflects Lakeland's status as a desirable relocation destination. 05:21 *🚗 Traffic* - Lakeland suffers from significant traffic congestion, exacerbated by ongoing development and tourist influx. - Traffic issues extend beyond Lakeland, affecting major highways like I-4, especially during peak travel times. - Challenges include accidents, road construction, and diverse driving habits, contributing to commuting difficulties. 06:42 *📈 Population Growth (Continued&t=402)* - Lakeland ranks as one of the fastest-growing areas in the United States, attracting a steady stream of newcomers. - The city's growth trend reflects its appeal as a residential destination, necessitating consideration of associated pros and cons. - Increasing population influx requires infrastructure development and urban planning to accommodate demand. 07:09 *✈️ Airport Proximity* - South Lakeland's proximity to the expanding Lakeland Linder Airport may be a drawback for some residents. - Growth in air traffic, including cargo and passenger flights, affects noise levels and residential preferences. - The airport's potential as a regional hub offers convenience but also presents challenges related to noise and development. 08:19 *🌀 Hurricanes* - Living in Lakeland, like much of Florida, entails preparing for hurricanes, a recurring natural hazard. - Despite hurricane risks, proactive measures such as preparation and evacuation plans mitigate potential damage. - Residents balance the threat of hurricanes with the benefits of living in a region with no state income tax. 09:55 *💰 Cost of Living (Bonus Tips&t=595)* - Lakeland offers a cost-of-living advantage, including no state income tax and more affordable housing compared to nearby urban centers. - Affordability relative to larger cities attracts residents seeking economic opportunities and a lower cost of living. - Lack of snow and minimal winter-related expenses further contribute to Lakeland's appeal for relocating individuals. Made with HARPA AI
I was born in Lakeland Florida it's gotten too crowded and the drivers are horrible now people running stop signs like crazy people driving with no headlights it's crazy. and they build all theses houses and storage buildings and restaurants and every road in Lakeland is destroyed and massive pot holes they could atlest fix the roads all this money Lakeland is making.
Scam artist? Those aren't the locals their is an influx of northerners who brag about taking advantage of the "slow southerners" Lakeland isn't Lakeland anymore. Between the northerners and immigrants it's an over crowded mess
Where are these drug addicts, and what scam artists? I've been here 5 years, live over by Silver Moon and have never seen that here. I moved from D.C. so I know it when I see it, same with scam artists. Maybe I just go around that part of town.
I recently got my pool contractor license and I’m thinking about base my swimming pool construction business in Lakeland, do you honestly consider that there’s demand for new pool construction there? Thank you so much
Heat and Humidity is all over the State not just Lakeland. Bugs yes the Mosquitos are bad. Traffic The down town South Florida AVE. is like WTF did you do? Hurricane lol well Again thats all over the State. Ian was the worse since Andrew for Florida. Strongest Tornado on Record is an EF4 however that was in North Florida. But Sun N Fun is alot of Fun.....
Hot,cool weather mosquito,traffic, Rampage, wild Animals tornado,hurricanes,hail Damage come to Texas and I show You .!! People Don’t One The We Move To Florida.
WTF does California have to do with anything? Are you implying that you would need to move across country to feel safe if you are gay? Sick comment!! There are plenty more reasons to move to Cali. No humidity, no bugs, no screens on the patios, no lizards, canyons, trails, much prettier, mountains, hills, etc. It’s expensive, but it’s called the “Sunshine tax”.
Lived in Lakeland Florida, whole life. 50 years, husband and I are selling our Knoxville Tennessee home we bought 6 years ago and coming back home next February to our Lakeland fla. Home sweet home.
That is awesome!
Lakeland Florida is amazing and I love it there
It really is a great place to call home.
I live in Lakeland and yes the heat and humidity is absolutely horrible😂😂 I’ve lived here all my life though and I love it
Yep it’s better than dealing with snow for months at a time!
@@LivingInLakelandFL True that! 😆
How long do you think it would take until Lakeland is as big as Orlando/Tampa are today? Like 10 years?
I don’t think it’ll reach the same size, but they are growing together along the i-4 corridor. Are you thinking of moving to the area?
I get a real kick out of people who come to Florida then complain about the heat and lock themselves indoors with the A/C set on freeze. As for bugs, roaches and mosquito's, Florida is sub-tropical you should expect bugs and as for the mosquitos Florida mosquitos are tiny whereas Jersey mosquitos are the size of trucks. If you love the noisy nightlife stay in the big cities and you'll get a hefty dose of crime free along with the nightlife. Nowhere in Florida is 'walk friendly' and public transportation was designed by idiots and there's no such thing as pleasure driving, driving in Florida is no pleasure. Hurricanes are a fact of life in Florida, pay your money, take your chances.
I have lived here in lakeland 33 years and I love it and will never live anywhere else. Lakeland is amazing and that is why is growing so fast, also we have Sheriff Grady Judd. People here are nice and if you are worried about drugs remm there is California as an option for you. There is drugs everywhere and I have never had a problem because we have great police and sheriffs. I also love the fact that we don’t have all that night life and is family friendly. I feel safe living here. Lakeland is home ❤
I’m a pilot about to be based in Orlando. I am looking for a safe, quieter area with decent schools where my aging parents can come down and relax by the pool. I already live in FL and can deal with everything you mentioned already (except I do hate the palmetto bugs with a passion 😂). I’m torn between Ocala, Gainesville, Lakeland, Winter Haven, Sanford, and possibly a few places on the east coast like St Augustine or Sebastian.
Do you find it to be a good place for someone who wants to settle and start a family?
Lots of good choices in your list, I can answer all of your Winter Haven/Lakeland questions. I’ve helped a bunch of people bring their families here. Reach out with any questions! 863-333-5053 or Ben@HavenRealtyFL.com
Those are valid points, thank you!
Lakeland is not THAT
Being from the Bronx, lived in PR for a while Florida is great. Peace.
It’s hard to beat FL that’s for sure!
Florida has been my second home and post-retirement snowbird plan since the '70s. Snowbird 1.x & Snowbird 2.x with my first wife were for the Clearwater area; widowed since '03, reconnected with an acquaintance from childhood since 2016, the second greatest love of my life is co-author of Snowbird 3.x in Lakeland. The post-COVID modifications are called Snowbird 3.2 now.
Lakeland is a great place to be a snowbird, even if it took your three tries to find it!
Thank you, @LivingInLakelandFL
Joy & I are both semi-professional singer / songwriters, and we're establishing The Holidays / John & Joy Holiday as a stage name. My first wife, Jan (1961-2003) was also quite talented musically (🎤+🎸+🎹). Being re-introduced in 2016 was a huge surprise for both of us, and the mutual friend behind that reconnection hadn't realized that we had already met 35 years earlier (among other times when our paths crossed briefly in between). Yesterday was a significant anniversary for us too.
What a story! Thanks for sharing and good luck with your musical career! Maybe we’ll see you play one day.
Thank you again, @LivingInLakelandFL ! I'm not expecting much of a 'career' since we're both in our 50s now; but it would be great to work part-time 'dialing in mixes' for other artists and accepting invitations to participate as 'session musicians' occasionally. If I remember correctly, there's a studio right in Lakeland too. I'm thinking 'part-time Winter job' and still spending Summer with relatives here in NE Ohio. I'm still working on convincing my parents to join us, and my brother will be eligible for retirement from his main career soon. I'm a retired electrician, and Joy currently works in retail management.
Lakeland is very nice. My husband and I are retired and spent our winter there last year. We plan on returning in a couple of months. We will reach out once we are there. We are looking to move there.
Glad you hear you like it! Reach out when you are ready, I’m here to help. I have a few insurance brokers I can set you up with so we can get the best deal for you😃
Is home owner's insurance available in Lakeland?
My brother has now been living in Lakeland for almost 20 years.... and he says he'll die here 😂..... I would consider moving to Lakeland in the near future .....doing my research
Let me know how I can help!
Two things we strongly agree on. Skin-So-Soft (by Avon) is the best insect repellent ever made and smells great! You're the first guy who's mentioned it since I lived in D.C. Great for your skin too. Put some in a little Dollar Store sprayer and put it in your car. And, I can't for the life of me figure out why they would block off two incredibly needed lanes of S. Florida Ave. That is so ridiculous and they're going to have to change that back. I've heard the arguments in favor of it and they are simply wrong. One of their arguments is pedestrian safety. No one is running over sidewalk pedestrians anywhere else on Florida Ave., that's absurd and you can't even park there. They just built these dangerous concrete obstructions in the road that look like shit and will tear your car up if you're not careful.
I like the growing airport, even though I haven't been on a plane since before 9/11 and probably won't again, but they built that nice 7-11 across the street and they have great hot dogs and I'm right off Airport Rd! I'm so easy to please, and a cheap date. They built up a lot over there and seem to keep going toward County Line Rd. I just happened to take photos before they did and they'll bring a lot of jobs here. Maybe a couple of them might pay that $7000 a month you said it takes to live here in your other video! I had a comment on that one also, but on this one, I really didn't see any of those things that bad, except Florida Ave. and anyone not knowing what that comment meant wouldn't understand it. I'm a mobile auto detailer so I work out in this stinking heat, but I also have a water hose and trust me, I use it on myself. I don't know how these construction workers make it.
Thanks for the video!
Mosquitos are living that thug life when it comes to eating your axx alive
On the radio yesterday they were reviewing a recent poll where most people had rather have a sunburn that mosquito bites!
Is there a part of town you recommend that’s better for luxury apartments? Moving to that area from Lake Nona because of work. Or Winter Haven. I’m a renter and have a young child.
Hey! I use to live in the apartments at lakeside village that is now called Town Center and enjoying being right there. There are also apartments on Bay Street downtown lakeland that are supposed to be nice. In Winter Haven there’s Raindance apartments that just opened up. If none of those fit the bill let me know and I’ll see what else I can remember 😃
@@LivingInLakelandFL thanks!! I’ll look into these!
@@Introvertcat you’re welcome!
🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation:
00:00 *🌞 Weather and Environment*
- Living in Lakeland, Florida means dealing with extreme heat and humidity.
- Sunscreen and hydration are essential due to high temperatures and humidity.
- Mosquitoes and roaches are prevalent, requiring preventive measures like bug spray and screened areas.
02:33 *🌃 Nightlife and Entertainment*
- Lakeland lacks a vibrant nightlife compared to larger cities like Tampa and Orlando.
- Limited options for late-night activities, although some bars and music venues are open until 2 AM.
- Nearby cities offer more extensive nightlife options for those seeking a lively entertainment scene.
03:42 *🚶 Walkability*
- Lakeland's walkability score is generally low, requiring most residents to rely on vehicles for daily errands.
- While some neighborhoods allow walking to amenities, many areas are spread out, necessitating transportation.
- Limited walkable areas may inconvenience those accustomed to pedestrian-friendly communities.
04:24 *🏠 Population Growth*
- Lakeland is experiencing rapid population growth, attracting residents from various states due to affordability and amenities.
- The city's affordability compared to neighboring urban centers is a significant draw for newcomers.
- Increased demand for housing and services reflects Lakeland's status as a desirable relocation destination.
05:21 *🚗 Traffic*
- Lakeland suffers from significant traffic congestion, exacerbated by ongoing development and tourist influx.
- Traffic issues extend beyond Lakeland, affecting major highways like I-4, especially during peak travel times.
- Challenges include accidents, road construction, and diverse driving habits, contributing to commuting difficulties.
06:42 *📈 Population Growth (Continued&t=402)*
- Lakeland ranks as one of the fastest-growing areas in the United States, attracting a steady stream of newcomers.
- The city's growth trend reflects its appeal as a residential destination, necessitating consideration of associated pros and cons.
- Increasing population influx requires infrastructure development and urban planning to accommodate demand.
07:09 *✈️ Airport Proximity*
- South Lakeland's proximity to the expanding Lakeland Linder Airport may be a drawback for some residents.
- Growth in air traffic, including cargo and passenger flights, affects noise levels and residential preferences.
- The airport's potential as a regional hub offers convenience but also presents challenges related to noise and development.
08:19 *🌀 Hurricanes*
- Living in Lakeland, like much of Florida, entails preparing for hurricanes, a recurring natural hazard.
- Despite hurricane risks, proactive measures such as preparation and evacuation plans mitigate potential damage.
- Residents balance the threat of hurricanes with the benefits of living in a region with no state income tax.
09:55 *💰 Cost of Living (Bonus Tips&t=595)*
- Lakeland offers a cost-of-living advantage, including no state income tax and more affordable housing compared to nearby urban centers.
- Affordability relative to larger cities attracts residents seeking economic opportunities and a lower cost of living.
- Lack of snow and minimal winter-related expenses further contribute to Lakeland's appeal for relocating individuals.
Made with HARPA AI
Thanks! That’s a pretty cool AI tool. I’m planning on remaking this video over the next few months with some updates.
Ughhhh and now it's august it's too hot to even make decisions you may have a heatstroke
Yes it is certainly time to stay inside during the middle of the day!
Lakeland is inland little safer from hurricanes then the coast
Yes we go through less wind damage and certainly less storm surge than coastal areas
Does it flood there?
I’ve lived here my entire life and the only time we deal with “flooding” is during a hurricane and even then it’s not more than a few inches.
I was born in Lakeland Florida it's gotten too crowded and the drivers are horrible now people running stop signs like crazy people driving with no headlights it's crazy. and they build all theses houses and storage buildings and restaurants and every road in Lakeland is destroyed and massive pot holes they could atlest fix the roads all this money Lakeland is making.
Yes the traffic isn’t getting any better anytime soon. Thanks for the comment!
1) Drug Addiction is rampant. 2) people are scam artist 3) businesses are all rackets
Hey Mike. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the human race with us today!
I did not find anything human about dealing with businesses in lakeland. Beautiful place, shady folks.
Scam artist? Those aren't the locals their is an influx of northerners who brag about taking advantage of the "slow southerners" Lakeland isn't Lakeland anymore. Between the northerners and immigrants it's an over crowded mess
Where are these drug addicts, and what scam artists? I've been here 5 years, live over by Silver Moon and have never seen that here. I moved from D.C. so I know it when I see it, same with scam artists. Maybe I just go around that part of town.
I recently got my pool contractor license and I’m thinking about base my swimming pool construction business in Lakeland, do you honestly consider that there’s demand for new pool construction there? Thank you so much
Congratulations! Yes I’m sure you could do well, I believe most pool companies are months out before they can start a new job. Good luck!
I’m moving here where should I move? I want a luxury place, please ty 😊
Shoot me an email with what you are looking for and I’ll send you what’s available! Ben@HavenRealtyFL.com
Try living with no ac it gets to be 95 to 97 in my house
Ouch! I was just showing a house in S Lakeland where the air was off it and was 90° inside 🥵
Thank you very much for your honesty.. not the town for me,
Happy to help! Let me know where you end up.
Your the only honest realtor. The others who mafe videos on lakeland were full of shit
Thank you for the kind words. I love Lakeland but I know it isn’t for everyone. If you have questions reach out anytime
Very helpful.. thank you!
Thanks for your feedback! Anything else you’d like to see me make a video on?
Florida's a good place to become an alcoholic
I feel like that could be said of any of the states.
wow 😂... idiotic comment. You can become an alcoholic anywhere in there world especially if decide to become an alcoholic
Yea you can get your booze on in every city I’ve been to.
I don't care for the new apartment complex taking over Lakeland mall sears gonna be crazy
Yea that is not going to help with traffic at all!
Are there bike lanes?
There are bike lanes in some areas, but not completely city wide.
Are there a lot of snowbird retirees living in Lakeland?
Hey there! I feel like the whole area receives a bunch of snowbirds.
Heat and Humidity is all over the State not just Lakeland. Bugs yes the Mosquitos are bad. Traffic The down town South Florida AVE. is like WTF did you do? Hurricane lol well Again thats all over the State. Ian was the worse since Andrew for Florida. Strongest Tornado on Record is an EF4 however that was in North Florida. But Sun N Fun is alot of Fun.....
Yep most of the state is the same, but coming from another state people need to be aware of it. Yes Sun NFun is a huge event.
Been looking at Country oaks estates over on the North side. Your thoughts on that particular area? thanks in advance
Hey Mike! Sorry I missed your comment, did you already buy your house there in Country Oak Estates?
@@LivingInLakelandFL Yes I did
These reasons you're giving there makes no sense. Majority of states and city have these issues
Where’s the ghetto area? In the north or south side?
Hey Jason! I’d recommend checking our sites like neighborhoodscout.com to pick the areas you’d like
But my dad was born here😢
I’ve lived here my whole line and love it!
i live here in lakeland and i think its just as big as orlando or tampa
Population wise we are behind Orlando by about 200,000 people and Tampa by 270,000 people.
@@LivingInLakelandFL yeah for sure but it will be just as big in at least 5 years I say
That would be a large amount of growth. I’d put our population growing by another 20-30k, from 115k to 135-145.
Dont move there the sheriff is crazy Grady
Especially if you are a pedophile or criminal 🙄
Hot,cool weather mosquito,traffic, Rampage, wild Animals tornado,hurricanes,hail Damage come to Texas and I show You .!! People Don’t One The We Move To Florida.
Lots of people moving around for sure! Thanks for watching
How’s the crime?
Hi Jordan! Just like any city there is good and questionable parts of town, but I believe it is lower than the national average as a whole.
What about all the racist and anti-gay hatred? Been in the news lately. Not a good look.
Go to Cali
Hey Edward! I don't know what news you've been watching but I haven't seen this to be true.
😂😂😂😂 cali is for you bud
full of meth labs and rednecks AND a sherrif that can't seem to keep the crime down
WTF does California have to do with anything? Are you implying that you would need to move across country to feel safe if you are gay? Sick comment!! There are plenty more reasons to move to Cali. No humidity, no bugs, no screens on the patios, no lizards, canyons, trails, much prettier, mountains, hills, etc. It’s expensive, but it’s called the “Sunshine tax”.