Welcome to Polk County
A Wonderful Place to Call Home!
Did You Know There Are Over 550 Lakes in Polk County?
Polk County boasts a distinctive and coveted status that sets it apart from any other county in Florida. It’s recognized as the state’s most rapidly expanding county.
What’s the reason? Polk serves as a pivotal link uniting individuals, destinations, and possibilities—it’s the intersection of potential. Strategically situated along the I-4 corridor, nestled between the metropolitan areas of Orlando and Tampa, Polk harmonizes a mix of swiftly urbanizing communities in its northern reaches.
Venture south of State Road 60, which bisects the county, and you’ll discover expansive stretches of untouched rural ranches and scrublands, preserved from the encroachments of development.
Polk presents the perfect mix of accessibility, affordability, and undiscovered prospects for tourists, locals, and businesses considering relocation. Discover Polk County, Florida—a truly remarkable place to explore and call home.
Polk County’s allure for fishing aficionados isn’t solely due to its impressive expanse of over 550 lakes covering more than 135 square miles. It’s the rich variety of freshwater ecosystems and the abundance of fish species within these waters that consistently reel in enthusiasts for repeated adventures.
In Polk County, Florida, you can catch a diverse array of fish species, including:
- Largemouth Bass: Often the star of the show, known for its size and fight.
- Black Crappie: Popular for its delicious taste.
- Bluegill: A favorite for its feisty nature on the line.
- Channel Catfish: Sought after for its size and flavor.
- Bream: Provides a fun challenge for anglers of all levels.
- Sunshine Bass: A hybrid species that’s exciting to catch.
- Gar: Known for its prehistoric appearance and tough demeanor.
- Tilapia: An invasive species that’s plentiful in local waters.
- Chain Pickerel: A toothy predator that offers a thrilling catch1.
These species thrive across the county’s numerous lakes and rivers, making it a prime destination for freshwater fishing enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, Polk County’s waters promise an exciting and rewarding fishing experience.
Polk County, Florida, is a region rich with unique attractions and characteristics that make it stand out:
- Geographic Heart: It’s located in the geographic center of Florida, making it a strategic hub between the bustling cities of Tampa and Orlando.
- Natural Beauty: The county is home to over 550 lakes and a variety of natural landscapes, from urbanizing communities to untouched rural lands.
- Cultural Heritage: Polk County houses the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture at Florida Southern College and the historic Bok Tower Gardens, both National Historic Landmarks.
- Recreational Activities: With LEGOLAND® Florida Resort and the Circle B Bar Reserve, it offers a range of activities for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
- Agricultural Richness: The county’s fertile lands support citrus groves and provide fresh local produce.
- Sports Fame: It’s the location of the Florida Sports Hall of Fame, celebrating the state’s sports history and achievements.
These features, combined with its central location, make Polk County a special place to visit and live, offering a blend of accessibility, leisure, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a peaceful place to reside, Polk County has something for everyone.
Polk County is perceived to have a lower crime rate compared to nearby regions. Despite occasional traffic, which can be surprising, the county continues to draw people in. This is attributed to its cost-effective living, high quality of life, and the timeless real estate adage: location, location, location.
Crime statistics in Polk County, Florida, indicate a mixed picture. The overall crime rate is 23.82 per 1,000 residents during a standard year. Residents generally consider the southwest part of the county to be the safest. However, while overall crimes decreased by more than 12% from 13,787 to 12,117 in 2020, violent crime saw an increase of more than 6%, from 1,990 to 2,115 incidents.
It’s important to note that crime rates can be influenced by various factors, including population density and the presence of retail areas or other locations that attract large numbers of people but have few residents. Therefore, areas with high crime rates on maps may not always indicate danger for residents living there.
