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For new Florida homebuyers, picking the right neighborhood is half the battle. If you’re looking for a peaceful Florida neighborhood with outdoor activities galore, read about our top things to do in Avon Park, Florida.
Imagine mornings spent kayaking on Lake Glenada, afternoons spent in the shade of live oaks, and evenings when the loudest sound is the hum of cicadas.
That’s the small Central Florida city of Avon Park, where life moves at the speed of your golf cart, and neighbors still wave from their porches.
If you’re wondering, “Is Avon Park, Florida a nice place to live?” the answer depends on what you’re looking for.
Here’s a closer look at what makes Avon Park tick, from its affordable homes and tight-knit community to its natural charm and laid-back vibe.
Begin your Florida homebuying journey with MIDFLORIDA Credit Union.
Main attractions in Avon Park
Don’t let its small-town vibe fool you; Avon Park packs a punch with its mix of outdoor adventures, cultural gems, and community charm.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just someone who enjoys a really good festival, there’s always something here to spark your interest.
Avon Park’s diverse offerings make it perfect for any type of homeowner, whether a first-time buyer or a Florida retiree.
Lake Verona
At the heart of Avon Park, Lake Verona offers fishing, kayaking, and scenic lakeside walks. Surrounded by homes and parks, it’s central to community life.
South Florida State College Museum of Florida Art and Culture
This museum is a local cultural hub, featuring exhibits on local history, regional artists, and Native American artifacts.
Avon Park Depot Museum
History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring exhibits on Avon Park’s railroad heritage and memorabilia from its early days.
Golf courses
Avon Park hosts several well-maintained golf courses, including the historic Pinecrest Golf Club, established in the 1920s.
Public transportation and accessibility in Avon Park
When considering if Avon Park, Florida is right for you, transportation will play an important role, especially if you plan to commute to school, work, or recreational activities.
Limited public transit
Avon Park lacks extensive public transit systems common in larger Florida cities. Residents mostly rely on personal vehicles for commuting and errands.
Heartland rides
Serving Highlands County, including Avon Park, Heartland Rides provides transportation primarily for seniors, people with disabilities, and residents without vehicle access.
Ride-sharing availability
Services like Uber and Lyft operate locally, but availability is limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. Due to limited public transit, owning a car in Avon Park is highly advisable.
However, the advantage is minimal traffic congestion, which makes daily driving convenient and stress-free.
Average salary and job market in Avon Park
Knowing where the jobs are and their pay is a big part of choosing where to live.
Avon Park's economic landscape is as steady as its sunsets, offering a mix of opportunities that keep the community thriving.
Average salary
Avon Park’s average salary is around $36,845 to $42,866 annually, lower than the state average but proportional to the town’s lower living costs.
Dominant industries
Healthcare, education, agriculture, retail, and hospitality dominate Avon Park’s employment scene.
- Healthcare: AdventHealth Sebring and local clinics offer various healthcare-related jobs.
- Education: South Florida State College and Avon Park’s public school system provide employment opportunities for educators, administrators, and support staff.
- Agriculture: Avon Park sits within Florida's citrus-growing region, offering employment in farming and distribution
- Retail and hospitality: Local businesses, shops, restaurants, and hotels serve both residents and seasonal visitors, providing steady job opportunities
Cost of living: Where your dollar goes further
Avon Park’s affordability isn’t just a perk; it’s a game-changer. From buying a house to everyday expenses, you can stretch your dollar farther here without sacrificing quality of life.
Housing Costs
Avon Park’s housing prices are notably lower than cities like Orlando, Tampa, and Miami.
Both home purchases and rental rates fall well below Florida’s average, making homeownership accessible.
Transportation and utility expenses
Transportation costs tend to be lower than state averages, thanks to reduced congestion and shorter commutes, while utility expenses match Florida’s state averages.
Groceries and essentials
Everyday necessities, such as groceries, healthcare, and basic household expenses, remain consistently more affordable here than in larger urban areas.
Educational opportunities in Avon Park
Avon Park takes its schools seriously, and it shows. From strong academics to standout extracurriculars, the city’s public and private schools are shaping the next generation with care and commitment.
Avon Park High School
Avon Park High is a centerpiece of local education within the Highlands County district, recognized for its robust academics, sports programs, and extracurricular activities.
Avon Park Middle School
Avon Park Middle prepares students for high school with balanced curricula and dedicated educators, contributing to their academic and personal development.
Park Elementary School
Known for its superior teaching staff and nurturing learning environments, Park Elementary provides strong educational foundations for young students.
South Florida State College
The college provides affordable higher education, including associate degrees, technical certificates, and bachelor’s degree partnerships, supporting career advancement for residents.
Walker Memorial Academy
This private, faith-based school emphasizes strong academics and character development, offering an alternative to public schooling.
Community and quality of life in Avon Park, FL
What sets Avon Park apart isn’t just its affordability or natural beauty; it's how neighbors come together, building a great quality of life for homeowners.
Friendly community
With a smaller population, residents frequently note a sense of community and neighborliness—local events foster interaction and lasting relationships.
Outdoor recreation and environment
Proximity to lakes, parks, and natural areas encourages outdoor activities, benefiting physical health and emotional well-being.
Location and accessibility
Avon Park is within a ninety-minute drive of major cities like Tampa and Orlando, providing easy access to urban amenities without the daily hustle and bustle.
Are there enough things to do in Avon Park, FL to attract you?
If you dream of a life where home affordability meets small-town charm, the answer is a resounding yes.
Avon Park delivers a rare blend of low living costs, friendly neighbors, and natural beauty, all wrapped in a pace of life that feels like a permanent exhale.
Whether you’re retiring, raising a family, or simply wanting a quieter corner of Florida, Avon Park offers a lifestyle that’s as balanced as it is rewarding.
Ready to call Avon Park home?
Finding the right home—and the right mortgage—doesn’t have to be a headache.
MIDFLORIDA makes it easy with competitive rates, local guidance, and a team that treats your dream home like theirs. Whether you’re buying your first house or refinancing, we’ll guide you every step of the way through the mortgage process.
Take the first step toward making Avon Park your new hometown with MIDFLORIDA.
