Lakeland: The Swan City

Lakeland, located in Polk County, boasts the world’s largest one-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture at Florida Southern College. It’s home to several notable attractions, including the Circle B Bar Reserve, Detroit Tigers Spring Training, and Safari Wilderness.

Convenient

Residents of Lakeland appreciate its convenient proximity to larger cities like Tampa and Orlando, which ensures there’s always something to do. The city is renowned for its diverse Florida wildlife and numerous waterways.

Swans

One of Lakeland’s most iconic features is its population of swans, particularly those gracefully gliding on Lake Morton and other local lakes. These swans arrived in 1923, but unfortunately, predators and diseases decimated the native swan population by 1954. In a heartwarming twist, a former Lakeland resident living in England reached out to Queen Elizabeth II for assistance. As a result, Lakeland earned the nickname “Swan City,” thanks to the descendants of two mute swans gifted by the Queen in 1957.

Population

Lakeland prioritizes infrastructure, healthcare, education, and affordable housing. Its population is rapidly growing, projected to reach 500,000 by 2035 (currently at 260,000). The city’s appeal lies partly in its cost of living, which is 13% below the national average and 17% below the state average. Additionally, the expansion of Publix’s corporate office and Amazon’s growth contribute to Lakeland’s development. Notably, the city maintains a lower crime rate than the national average, with a slightly lower violent crime rate compared to Florida as a whole.