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Lake Wales, Florida

What It Is Like to Retire in Lake wales

Lake Wales is a small town of about 16,000 (2020), in central Florida, near Kissimee and Winter Haven. People describe it as having a very charming little downtown representing old Florida at the time of the land boom of the 1920's. It's nickname is the "friendliest small town". There are 2 colleges in town, Warner University and Polk State College. Lakes Wales has a beautiful Historic Corridor where you can visit the restored Rhodesbilt Arcade, The Depot Museum and The Scenic Theater. Many of these buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places. Plus you will find plenty of interesting shops, and art galleries. Chalet Suzanne is a fabulous restaurant in a former Spanish Mission Church. Speaking of churches, you will find all denominations represented here.

Where to Retire in Lake wales and Home Prices

Choose from 1920's Mediterranean Revival estates, lake front properties, active adult and golf communities, gated townhomes and more. Lake Ashton is a giant active adult community in Lake Wales. Home values in Lake Wales have fluctuated, with the median sale price about $243,980 in mid 2023, according to Zillow.com

What Is Special about Lake wales

Charming downtown, relatively warm winters. The shrine of Ste Anne des Lacs, Bok Tower Gardens, Chalet Suzanne, and Spook Hill (a famous optical illusion).

What Is Not Special about Lake wales

It is a small town, summers are hot, the closest airport is over 50 miles away

Who Will Like Retirement in Lake wales

Lake Wales attracts a lot of retirees looking for a comfortable and inexpensive Florida lifestyle.

Local Economy Is Driven by

Retirement and tourism are big industries, along with agriculture.

Climate and Physical Environment

Lake Wales is in a lake district almost exactly in the center of Florida. Kissimmee is to the east. January average temperature is about 60, and July's average is 82.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Bok Tower has gardens and hosts concerts. Nearby Winter Haven and Orlando have more culture. Lake Wales has a library. Tampa is not too far away. Having 2 small colleges in town does provide some culture.