Why Live in Lake City
Lake City, historically known as Alligator Town and now often referred to as Florida’s Gateway, is a rural community surrounded by natural beauty. The area is rich in outdoor attractions, with Ichetucknee Springs State Park located about 20 miles south and Suwannee Springs nearly 30 miles northeast, both offering crystal-clear pools and scenic views. Within the city, Alligator Lake Recreational Area provides 1,000 acres of wetlands, picnic pavilions, trails, and a playground, showcasing the lush greenery of the nearby Osceola National Forest. Downtown Lake City, centered around Marion Avenue, features local shops and dining options, including the historic Marion Street Bistro and Brewhouse. The area also hosts the Lake City-Columbia County Historical Museum, adding a touch of local history.
The housing market includes historic ranch-style homes and bungalows downtown, with newer planned communities featuring New Traditional properties developed from the 1980s to early 2000s. Flood insurance and hurricane-proofing are recommended due to past weather events like Hurricane Helene in 2024. The Colombia County School District serves the area and is highly rated, providing quality education options. For higher education, Florida Gateway University offers programs in industry, manufacturing, construction, and transportation.
Lake City’s agricultural roots are evident in the surrounding farms and ranches, with major highways like Interstate 10 and Interstate 75 providing access to nearby cities. Jacksonville, with the closest international airport, is 60 miles east, while Gainesville is about 50 miles south.
Home Trends in Lake City, FL
On average, homes in Lake City, FL sell after 39 days on the market compared to the national average of 50 days. The median sale price for homes in Lake City, FL over the last 12 months is $289,000, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$289,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$299,000
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$160,000
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$179
Number of Homes for Sale
219
Last 12 months Home Sales
481
Median List Price
$304,950
Median Change From 1st List Price
0%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
3%