5 Reasons to Move to Haines City, Florida

Looking for the perfect blend of small-town charm, natural beauty, and big-city convenience? Haines City, affectionately known as the “Heart of Florida,” is just what you’re searching for! Located in Central Florida on the fringes of the Orlando metro area, this growing city offers an affordable cost of living, easy access to nearby cities and attractions, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Let’s explore five of the top reasons why Haines City is a relocation destination in Florida.

1. Prime Location

Haines City’s central location puts you within easy reach of everything that makes Florida living so desirable. It’s convenient to major highways including US-17, US-27, and I-4, for commuting convenience to the nearby cities of Orlando, Tampa, and Lakeland. And, the proximity to major roadways places you just a short drive from world-class attractions and entertainment destinations, such as:

• Walt Disney World – 19 miles
• Old Town Kissimmee – 22 miles
• ICON Park – 30 miles
• Universal Orlando Resort – 31 miles
• Downtown Orlando – 37 miles

2. Abundant Parks and Outdoor Recreation

Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Haines City, from parks to golf courses to nature trails.

Lake Eva Community Park and Aquatic Center offers an expansive array of amenities, including a fishing pier and public boat ramp, beach area, pavilions, community center, tennis and basketball courts, playgrounds, and a 2-mile walking trail. It is also home to a community pool and splash pad, and hosts year-round events and entertainment both on the park grounds and the onsite event center, bandshell, and community theatre. 

Lake Marion Creek Wildlife Area is the perfect spot for nature lovers. This preserve offers scenic hiking trails through diverse landscapes, including pine flatwoods and swamp forests, with two popular trailheads offering access to the area – Lake Marion Trailhead and Huckleberry Island Trailhead. Plus, the area offers ample opportunities for fishing, bicycling, kayaking, picnicking, and camping.

Tee off at premier golf destinations such as Grenelefe Golf and Tennis Resort and Southern Dunes Golf and Country Club, both offering challenging layouts and beautiful scenery.

3. Exceptional Education

Haines City is committed to providing quality education for its residents. Haines City Senior High School, with a B- overall grade from Niche.com, offers AP and International Baccalaureate courses, as well as career-focused academies in media production and environmental agriculture and technology.

The Polk County School District also offers school options, with opportunities for students of every age and wuth a variety of disciplines. Two of the top choice schools located in or near Haines City include:

• Daniel Jenkins Academy of Technology Middle School: This B-rated school emphasizes Florida Environmental Studies so students understand the need to preserve Florida’s natural resources and environment in order for the quality of life to continue in our state.
• Davenport School of the Arts: This K-8 school is known for its arts-infused curriculum, earning a B+ overall grade with strong ratings in academics, diversity, and teacher quality.

4. Safety and Security

Haines City is a small, quiet suburb, offering a rural-suburban feel and a peaceful, secure environment for its residents. Ranked the #17 safest city in Florida, on a more local level, it’s the #3 safest city in Polk County behind neighboring Davenport (#6) and Lake Alfred (#14). 

Its inland location also offers protection against hurricane damages compared to coastal cities, since hurricane strength deteriorates as it goes over land. Central Florida is generally considered one of the safest places in Florida for hurricanes.

5. Affordable Cost of Living

One of the biggest draws to Haines City is its affordability, especially when compared to nearby Orlando. The cost of living in Haines City is 10.5% lower than in Orlando, with housing costs that are 24.8% lower. The median home price in Haines City is $330,000, while the median sales price in Orlando is nearly $385,000.

With no state income tax, Florida residents get to keep more of their earnings. In addition, Haines City has a lower sales tax than the national average.

A lower cost of living and low taxes allow homebuyers and residents to enjoy an affordable lifestyle without sacrificing access to jobs, entertainment, and amenities.

Where to Buy a New Home in Haines City, FL

Now that you’ve learned some great reasons to move to Haines City, all you have to do is find somewhere to live! We can help with that, too - Highland Homes builds new homes in Haines City in three desirable communities:

• Bradbury Creek in Haines City is an amenity-rich community offering desirable single-family homes from the $280s situated amongst open space, ponds, and conservation areas. With 3 to 5 bedrooms, a 2-car garage, and 1,479 to 2,587 square feet of living space, these homes offer comfortable living and desirable features such as open concept layouts, flexible use rooms, and outdoor living space.
• Gracelyn Grove offers new homes in Haines City with no CDD fees, park amenities, and attainable pricing from the $300’s. Choose from homes offering 1,479 to 3,162 square feet of living space, 3 to 6 bedrooms, and up to 3.5 bathrooms in a park-like setting with open space and ponds, a playground, a dog park, and community gathering areas.
• Hammock Reserve in Haines City is so popular it is nearly sold out - Don’t miss out on the opportunity to own a new construction home here, with quick move-in homes available now from the high $200s, and our beautiful, professionally-designed and decorated model home for sale! In this community, homes are situated amongst natural conservation areas, open green spaces, and ponds, with resort-style amenities including a community pool, trails, playgrounds, and dog parks.

With its unbeatable location, affordability, and quality of life, Haines City is an excellent place to call home. Whether you’re looking for a new adventure, a peaceful retreat, or the convenience of living near Orlando without the high price tag, you’ll find it here. Call or email our Haines City New Home Specialists to find the perfect home for your next chapter!