$258,814Average Value$171Average Price per Sq Ft84Homes For Sale
Collaborative efforts have created an enviable neighborhood
Eclectic dining. Cultural attractions. Lakefront recreation. On the surface, these are the reasons that Winter Haven is the fastest-growing city in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. But if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find that the work of city officials and business leaders has laid the foundation. “There’s a unique level of collaboration and cooperation to do what is best for Winter Haven,” says Sara Beth Wyatt, president and CEO of the Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce. “We start with ‘Yes,” and then see if we can make it happen.” Nothing epitomizes the ongoing success of their efforts more than Downtown Winter Haven, the vibrant centerpiece of a flourishing city. “Full disclosure, I live and work downtown, so I’m a big fan,” Wyatt says. “There’s just so much to do. A lot of that is centered around the lakes, and we like to joke that you run into a lake at the end of every street, but we’ve got bars, restaurants, ice cream shops, shopping. You can park your car once and enjoy all of it.”
Downtown Winter Haven is a laid back sunny neighborhood in Florida.
Downtown Winter Haven is the vibrant centerpiece of one of Florida’s fastest-growing cities.
A burgeoning contemporary dining scene. Historic venues. Downtown Winter Haven has it all.
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Dining options are endless
The neighborhood is anchored by a burgeoning dining scene. Nutwood, owned by Michelin star-rated chef Steven Rojas, is the city’s premier farm-to-table restaurant. Arabellas is known far and wide for its upscale Italian dishes. “I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve heard of people driving 45 minutes-plus just for the dining experience,” Wyatt says. Adler’s elevates comfort food with its contemporary twist on burgers. The Smokin’ Ox is the go-to spot for everything barbecue. For relaxed dockside dining away from the buzz of downtown, Harborside is a popular established eatery serving up seafood favorites. Bowen Yard, a new food and event space featuring six eateries, is the latest project of the Six/Ten LLC development group. “They are very partial to whom they want to attract,” Wyatt says. “A private entity that can be a little more particular in recruiting companies to Winter Haven will make sure we have a diverse mix.” Adding to the diversity are established eateries from outside the city such as Lucille’s American Café and Delectable Delights that have recently opened downtown locations. “They see something in Winter Haven,” Wyatt says. There are plenty of nightlife options as well. Featured stops include speakeasy-style Social Cocktail Lounge, which features live music, Grove Roots Brewing Co. and The Union Taproom. The neighborhood is served by two primary commercial corridors -- U.S. Route 17, known locally as 3rd Street, and Cypress Gardens Boulevard. Walmart, Publix, Aldi and Lowe’s are among the convenient retail options along the corridors.
Nutwood, is an intimate farm-to-table restaurant located in Downtown Winter Haven
Adler’s serves up elevated comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere.
The Smokin’ Ox offers the best in modern barbecue in Winter Haven.
Harborside is a popular dockside eatery serving up fresh seafood and other favorites.
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Cultural attractions and community gatherings
The neighborhood also is the city’s cultural center. Theatre Winter Haven is home to popular community theater productions, and the Historic Ritz Theatre, established in 1925, features movies, concerts and improv comedy acts. Gram Parsons Derry Down, a relatively new addition to the entertainment scene, is a contemporary concert venue that is the result of restoring a teen club originally built to showcase a young Gram Parsons, a Winter Haven native whose “Cosmic American music” is considered the precursor to alternative country. The downtown area also hosts citywide events throughout the year. Annual celebrations include Taste of Winter Haven, Craft Beer Crawl and family friendly gatherings such as CommunityFest and Bark in the Park. Downtown also hosts the popular Winter Haven Farmers Market every Saturday. “We’re not as busy or chaotic as Tampa or Orlando, but there’s still so much activity,” Wyatt says.
Located in the heart of Downtown Winter Haven is the Historic Ritz Theater.
Gram Parsons Derry Downs is an event venue in Downtown Winter Haven, FL.
Vibrant works of art are abundant at the festival where local artist showcase their works.
Winter Haven Farmers Market is a great weekly event to find fresh produce & local art pieces.
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"A lakefront lifestyle you don't often find"
At 624 acres, Lake Howard is the largest of several lakes in the neighborhood, several of which are connected by canals. Lakes Howard, May, Shipp, Cannon, Mirror and Spring Lake are all connected. Other neighborhood lakes include Silver, Martha, Maude and Idyl. That concentration provides residents with easy access to daily water-related activities throughout the year. Boaters in need of speed can put the throttle down and race across the larger lakes, which offer space for water skiing, an activity the city has long been known for. If relaxation is the aim, the lakes provide an idyllic setting for a pontoon boat float with friends and family. Anglers are ever-present, searching for their next big catch in waters stocked with bass, crappie and bluegill. “I think people appreciate the lakes, but they don’t quite realize what we have here,” Wyatt says. “You could jump in a boat and travel from southeast Winter Haven to northwest Winter Haven quicker than you could drive. The majority of the lakes in Winter Haven have public access, and the city has done a great job maintaining them. We have a lakefront lifestyle that you don’t often find.” South Lake Howard Nature Park and Martin Luther King Park are lakefront green spaces with walking trails. The latter is home to the Winter Haven City Tennis Center, the Winter Haven Senior Adult Center and monthly performance of the Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team on Lake Silver. Organized athletic activity takes place at the Chain O’ Lakes Complex, a sprawling park on the shores of Lake Lulu that is the site of a $20 million redevelopment project. Slated to be finished in early 2025 in time to host regional tournaments, the complex will be anchored by four artificial-turf baseball fields. Future plans include the addition of a multi-purpose field, playground and boardwalk.
With over 50 interconnected lakes throughout the Winter Haven area fishing is a common hobby.
The World Famous Cypress Gardens Ski Team continues with monthly shows in Winter Haven.
Locals can break a sweat at the Winter Haven Tennis Center playing Tennis for Pickleball.
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Affordable alternative to nearby metropolitan areas
Traditional ranch-style homes and other midcentury designs are prominent among established housing, which also includes Spanish-style and cottage-style homes. Contemporary custom homes in gated communities highlight new construction. Prices range from the low $200,000s to the mid-$600,000s. Lakefront homes are the neighborhood’s most expensive, typically priced from the low $800,000s to more than $1.5 million. Alternative options include waterfront condominiums starting in the low $100,000s and manufactured homes in 55-plus communities starting at $40,000. “A lot of people are looking to purchase a Florida home, and the Orlando/Kissimmee area is pretty tapped out. So if someone is looking to invest, Winter Haven is a great place,” says Emily Ward, a Realtor with EXP Realty. “We’re near Orlando and near Tampa, but we have a smaller state of mind. With lower prices, it’s a great place for people looking for longer-term investments.”
Ranch-style designs are prominent among the neighborhood’s established housing.
Lakefront homes are the neighborhood’s most expensive, but have the most majestic evening views.
Contemporary custom homes in gated communities highlight the new growth in Winter Haven.
Spring Lake Towers Boat Slip & Dock
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Neighborhood is home to city's top-rated school
Florida offers a robust school-choice program, and Winter Haven’s top-rated institution, Chain of Lakes Collegiate High, is located downtown. A-rated by Niche, the charter school allows motivated 11th- and 12th-graders to take high school and college courses simultaneously. The school is located on the Winter Haven campus of Polk State College, which offers a variety of work certificates, associate’s degrees and bachelor’s degrees focusing on health, science, education and law enforcement. Frank E. Brigham Academy, a B-plus-rated magnet school, is the top elementary option in the neighborhood, which also is home to Denison Middle, a C-rated school, and Winter Haven Senior High, a B-minus-rated school.
Frank E. Brigham Academy is a magnet school located in Winter Haven, FL.
Denison Middle School is home to over 800 students in grades 6-8.
Winter Haven Senior High School is a public school located in Winter Haven, FL.
Welcome to Chain of Lakes Collegiate High School in Downtown Winter Haven.
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Conveniently located to regional points of interest
The neighborhood’s centralized location provides easy access to travel throughout the region. U.S. Highway 17 connects south to Bartow and north to U.S. Highway 92, which connects directly to Lakeland about 15 miles west. U.S. Highway 27, located a few miles east of downtown, connects south to Lake Wales and north to Haines City and Davenport. The neighborhood is roughly equidistant between Tampa and Orlando. The major metropolitan areas are both about 50 miles away via Interstate 4. Closer to home, Citrus Connection bus stops are spread throughout the neighborhood, which also is home to an Amtrak train station that provides daily commuter service. The Winter Haven Regional Airport, located about 5 miles north of the neighborhood, is a busy public-use facility, but it does not offer commercial service. However, both Tampa and Orlando have international airports.
The neighborhood’s centralized location provides easy access to travel throughout the region.
The Citrus Connection bus stops are spread throughout the neighborhood of Winter Haven.
The Polk Parkway allows for access to Tampa & Orlando.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Kathy Alexander,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Central Park
Picnic Area
Sertoma Park
Baseball/Softball
Football
Picnic Area
Kiwanis Park
Fishing
Lake
Picnic Area
Lake Maude Nature Park
Football
Picnic Area
Soccer
Rotary Park
Baseball/Softball
Basketball
Picnic Area
Joyce B. Davis Memorial Park
Picnic Area
Trails
Inman Park
Picnic Area
Trails
Martin Luther King Park
Picnic Area
Kayak/Canoe
Playground
South Lake Howard Nature Park
Bike Trails
Fishing
Picnic Area
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Downtown Winter Haven
US
Homicide
5
4
Sexual Assault
6
4
Assault with Weapon
5
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
6
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
6
4
Crime Score
5
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Downtown Winter Haven, Winter Haven sell after 98 days on the market compared to the national average of 47 days. The average sale price for homes in Downtown Winter Haven, Winter Haven over the last 12 months is $262,155, up 6% from the average home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Step into timeless character blended with thoughtful updates in this charming 2-story home. Enter through a welcoming foyer where you’ll find the staircase leading to the second floor and a warm sense of home. The heart and soul of this property is the beautifully remodeled kitchen, featuring tall ceilings, eat-in area, and elegant granite countertops and backsplash—perfect for creating and
"HOUSE HACK OPPORTUNITY - INVESTOR GEM!"Live in one unit and rent out the rest! This multi-unit property is perfect for savvy buyers looking to offset their mortgage or cash flow immediately. Whether you're a first-time investor or adding to your portfolio, this gem offers strong rental potential in a prime location. Don't miss out! Beautifully Updated Corner Lot Home in the Heart of Winter Haven
Stephanie Morales AdriazolaKELLER WILLIAMS REALTY SMART 1
Welcome to Your Half Acre Lakeside Historic Retreat on Lake Elbert!Step back in time and experience the timeless charm of this beautiful 4-bedroom, 2-bath historic home, perfectly situated on half an acre of lakefront property in the heart of Winter Haven. Built in 1926 and spanning over 3,100 square feet, this residence offers a rare blend of classic elegance, vintage details, and serene
All new window in the building...Price improvement...Seller ready to sell! Beautifully maintained 55+ condominium located in Lake Ridge Winter Haven. This is a gated community offering a tranquil living space. Conveniently located near hospitals, restaurants, shopping, entertainment and so much more. This home offers everything you need to live a true Floridian lifestyle. Amenities include heated
TWO Income-Producing Properties, One Amazing Opportunity! This unique corner-lot package includes two CB 2-bedroom, 1-bath homes being sold together – ideal for investors, multi-generational living, or those looking to live in one and rent the other! Situated on a spacious 140x105 lot, Unit 577, boasts a brand-new roof, new HVAC system, and an all-new screened-in L-shaped lanai, that expands your
Welcome to the well-maintained 55+ owner occupant community of Oakview located in beautiful Winter Haven, Florida. This is a two bedroom two bath tastefully furnished home. The split bedroom plan gives lots of privacy to guests or residents. The living/dining room combination is spacious and located right off the kitchen for ease of entertaining family and friends. There is a den at the rear
Welcome to Raindance Apartments, located in the beautiful Winter Haven, FL. Our community offers a range of exceptional amenities designed to enhance your lifestyle. Take a dip in our heated pool, perfect for year-round enjoyment and relaxation. Stay active and maintain your fitness goals in our state-of-the-art gym, equipped with modern exercise equipment. We understand that your furry friends
Newly remodeled one bedroom one bathroom unit located at Park Lake. Centrally located in Winter Haven with easy access to HWY 17, Cypress Gardens Blvd. and the Polk Parkway. Shopping and restaurants all are nearby.
The Best Amenities in TownThe Jade offers the most comprehensive amenity package in town, offering an unmatched blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience at one inclusive price—no other apartment complex nearby provides such a diverse range of options under one roof.
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Kathy Alexander,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
19,858
Median Age
40
Population Density
4 ppl/acre
Population under 18
23%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
21.2%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$44,410
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$68,503
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
82.9%
College Graduates
18.8%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
6.6%
Below the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
58.5%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
52''
Average Winter Low Temperature
52°F
Average Summer High Temperature
93°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Bikeable
Bike Score®
67/ 100
Very Walkable
Walk Score®
76/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
