ExoRoadExoRoadExoRoad
CountiesStatesHidden GemsCompareMap

Footer

Problem?  Give feedback

Features

  • Explore counties
  • Explore states
  • Compare areas
  • Heatmaps
  • Hidden Gems

More

  • About
  • Blog
  • Data Sources
  • Premium Pricing
Contact: eric@exoroad.com
Problem?  Give feedback

Subscribe to our newsletter

For updates and notifications on new features

DiscordDiscord Twitter

© 2025 ExoRoad, Inc. All rights reserved.

    OverviewWeatherHousingDemographicsJobsPoliticsCrimeTransportationEducationOutdoorsCulture
    1. Florida
    2. Polk County

    Major cities or towns:

    Lakeland
    Winter Haven
    Haines City
    Polk County, Florida is a diverse and dynamic region located in the heart of the Sunshine State. Geographically, the county boasts a mix of rolling hills, lakes, and wetlands, offering a pleasant subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The population is over 700,000, with a growing diversity and a median age of around 40 years old. The economy is anchored by industries like healthcare, logistics, and tourism, providing a range of job opportunities, though the cost of living is slightly above the national average, especially in the housing market. The education system includes several highly-rated public school districts as well as several colleges and universities, including the University of South Florida Polytechnic. Healthcare facilities in Polk County are comprehensive, with several major hospital systems and specialized medical centers. Culturally, the region boasts a vibrant arts scene, museums, and a variety of entertainment options, complemented by abundant outdoor recreation opportunities, including lakes, parks, and nature preserves. The transportation infrastructure is well-developed, with easy access to major highways, airports, and public transit. While crime rates are generally lower than state and national averages, some areas may have higher incidences of certain types of crime, so residents should research specific neighborhoods. Overall, Polk County offers a balanced lifestyle, with a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it an attractive option for those seeking a comfortable and fulfilling place to call home in Florida.

    Demographics

    Population

    725K

    Ethnicity %

    White
    56
    Black
    14
    Asian
    2
    Hispanic
    21

    Median Age

    40.2

    Density

    8 of 10

    335 / Mile²

    Avg Family Size

    3.1

    Religious

    42%

    Foreign Born

    21%

    Veterans

    7.8%

    Adult Smokers

    20%

    Adult Obesity

    36%

    Uninsured

    16%

    Excessive Drinking

    17%

    Poverty Rate

    13.1%

    Weather

    Sunlight

    7 hours winter dailyVery sunny

    Summer average temp

    97°F

    Winter max temp

    74°F

    Precipitation

    52 in.

    Snowfall (inches)

    0.0 (low)

    Drought risk

    High

    Earthquake risk

    Low

    Wildfire risk

    High

    Tornado risk

    High

    Hurricane risk

    High

    Crime

    Rank: 3.8 of 10

    (crimes per 1,000 people yearly)

    Violent

    4 (2.8)

    Property

    5 (23)

    Assault

    4 (2.0)

    Larceny (theft)

    5 (17)

    Robbery

    1 (0.1)

    Burglary

    5 (5.4)

    Rape

    7 (0.69)

    Auto Theft

    3 (1.0)

    Murder

    1 (0.00)

    Arson

    4 (0.20)

    Driving deaths involving alcohol

    25%

    Politics and Law

    State politics

    Red (Republican)

    Abortion laws

    Legal before cardiac cell

    Marijuana laws

    Legal for medical use

    Gun Laws

    Open carry prohibited, Permitted conceal carry

    Democrat

    42%

    Republican

    56%

    State Tax Burden

    6.97%

    Cigarette Tax

    $1.339

    Jobs

    Income (per capita)

    $38,178

    Unemployment

    2.6%

    Employment

    55.4%

    Hours worked

    40.5

    Outdoors

    Natural Amenities

    6 / 10

    Water Area

    6.73%

    Near park?

    Unknown

    Beaches

    1-3 hours

    Mountains

    Not near mountains

    Tree Area

    28%

    Housing

    Home Ownership

    67%

    Median Home Price

    $312K

    Average Rent

    $1,924

    Internet over 25mbps

    67%

    Transportation

    Walkability

    23

    Cycling

    38

    Public Transit

    unknown

    Major Airport

    <2 hours

    Average Commute Time

    26

    Education

    K-12 Test Scores

    4 of 10  

    (avg: -0.11)

    College graduates

    20%

    Culture

    Arts scene

    72

    Food awards per 100k

    unknown