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When you think about moving to Florida, Tampa and Orlando might steal the spotlight—but what if the best place to live isn’t in the big cities?
Meet Land O’ Lakes, a hidden gem just 20 miles north of Tampa, quietly becoming one of Central Florida’s most sought-after communities. Think of it as the Goldilocks of Florida towns: not too big, not too small, but just right.
So, what are the top reasons for moving to Land O’Lakes, FL? Here are 10 that might just convince you to make the leap.
Find financing for your Florida home with MIDFLORIDA Credit Union.
Top reasons to move to Land O’ Lakes, Florida
With its affordable homes, easy access to nature, and a pace of life that feels like a releasing exhale, it’s no wonder families, professionals, and retirees are flocking to this Florida market.
1. The Land O Lakes lifestyle – slower, simpler, calmer
Tired of bumper-to-bumper commutes or the background noise of city life? Land O’ Lakes offers a welcome breather.
The vibe here is relaxed—think peaceful neighborhoods, wide-open green spaces, and front porches where people still wave hello.
You get small-town calm without giving up city perks. Tampa sits 20 miles south, close enough for concerts, pro sports, or date night, but far enough away to leave the traffic behind.
2. Sunshine just about every day
Land O’ Lakes sees an average of 248 sunny days a year. Winters are mild (say goodbye to snow shovels), and the long, warm summers are made for pool days, lake time, and outdoor adventures.
This consistency makes it easy to get outside and enjoy the best of Florida living.
3. Close to some of Florida’s best colleges
Got students in the family? Thinking about going back to school yourself?
Land O’ Lakes is a short drive from several standout institutions:
- University of South Florida (USF): Tampa's top-tier public research university.
- University of Tampa (UT): Known for its business and liberal arts programs.
- Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC): A more affordable option with multiple campuses nearby.
That proximity means less time commuting and more flexibility for students, educators, and academic professionals alike.
4. Safe, secure, and community-focused
Safety matters, especially if you’re raising kids or planning to retire. Land O’ Lakes consistently reports lower crime rates than other parts of the Tampa metro area.
Many neighborhoods are gated, and there’s a strong community feel with active neighborhood watch groups and responsive local law enforcement. It’s the kind of place where you’ll feel comfortable walking the dog after dark.
5. Endless outdoor recreation
If you love the outdoors, you’ll be in good company here. True to its name, Land O’ Lakes is surrounded by over 100 lakes. Plus, it’s packed with parks, nature preserves, and trails.
Favorites include:
- Conner Preserve: Nearly 3,000 acres of natural Florida, perfect for hiking and biking
- Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park: A central spot for sports, picnics, and community events
- Lake Padgett & Bell Lake: Great for kayaking, jet skiing, and fishing
Weekend plans? Check. There’s no shortage of things to do in Land O Lakes.
6. You get more house for your money
In Land O’ Lakes, it’s not just about affordability; it’s about value.
Here, you’ll find homes designed for real life, no matter what you want: a cozy starter home, a family-friendly upgrade, or a serene retreat.
The neighborhoods are a big part of the appeal, offering unique lifestyles to match your priorities.
- Bexley: Modern, walkable, and master-planned, with trails and a clubhouse
- Connerton: Surrounded by conservation land, ideal for nature lovers
- Plantation Palms: A gated golf course community with upscale touches
- Wilderness Lake Preserve: Scenic, serene, and right on the water
Choosing a location is no easy feat for first-time homebuyers, but luckily, Land O Lakes offers many affordable and appealing options.
7. Great schools, real results
Families considering a move want to know their kids will be set up for success.
Land O’ Lakes delivers top-rated public and private schools, including:
- Sunlake High School: Strong academics, strong athletics
- Oakstead Elementary: Innovative programs and a supportive culture
- Academy at the Lakes: A private, college-prep school focused on personalized learning
8. Easy access to Tampa, Orlando, and beyond
Land O’ Lakes hits that rare sweet spot: quiet enough to relax, close enough to commute.
- 20 miles from downtown Tampa
- 30 minutes from Tampa International Airport
- About ninety minutes from Orlando’s world-famous theme parks
Traveling for work, flying to see family, and planning a weekend at Disney are all within reach.
9. Balanced cost of living with suburban value
Land O’ Lakes offers a relatively affordable lifestyle compared to Florida’s major urban centers.
Economic highlights include:
- Utility costs tend to fall just below national averages.
- Transportation expenses stay consistent with broader state and national trends.
- Groceries and services generally align with what you’ll find across Florida.
10. Built for families like yours
This community was practically made for family life. Beyond great schools and safe streets, Land O’ Lakes offers plenty of kid-friendly activities, like:
- AdventHealth Center Ice: Florida’s largest ice sports complex (yes, ice skating in the Sunshine State)
- Cypress Creek Preserve: Hiking and biking trails for outdoor exploration
- Florida farmers’ markets and festivals: A great way to connect with neighbors and support local businesses
There’s always something happening, and it’s easy to get involved.
What’s your reason for moving to Land O Lakes, Florida?
Land O’ Lakes, FL, offers affordability, safety, outdoor fun, and convenience.
It’s not flashy, and that’s part of its charm. This is the kind of place where you can put down roots, build home equity, and breathe a little easier.
Ready to make the move?
At MIDFLORIDA, we’re here to help make your move seamless. Our home loan options include everything from first-time buyer programs to competitive refinancing, with expert guidance at every step.
Move toward homeownership in Land O’ Lakes and start a mortgage application with MIDFLORIDA today.
