Like the name promises, Winter Haven, Florida is just that, A Winter Haven! While it is snowing in other areas of the United States, the citrus is ripening, Cypress Gardens is in full bloom, golfers are on the greens, and the Cleveland Indians are holding spring training at Chain of Lakes Park. Early settlers to the area came in search of a piece of paradise after the Indian War, they found it in Winter Haven and you will too!

Winter Haven has officially adopted the slogan, "The Chain of Lakes City." Widely recognized as the water skiing capital of the world, this "Chain of Lakes" is a boater's paradise. Chain of Lakes, 14 freshwater lakes connected by a series of canals, are wonderful for skiing and world-class fishing. Lake Shipp Park, an 18-acre county park, has a boat ramp, a swimming beach and picnic tables. Picnic tables and boat ramps draw people to Lake Cannon Park during the summer. Egrets, ospreys, otters, majestic cypress, magnolia, golden rain, citrus and oak trees, crepe myrtle, hibiscus, azaleas, camellias and all enhance the beauty of the landscape.

A progressive business climate contributes to the area's steady economic growth. The median household income is currently estimated to be $47,892. State Farm Insurance consolidated its regional headquarters in Winter Haven; Sherwin Williams, Wal-Mart, and Scotty's all have large distribution centers in the area. Other sectors of the local economy include agriculture, cattle, light industry, health care, retirement and tourism. There are also urban areas in close proximity that are easily accessible for a short commute.

For the 26,596 residents who call Winter Haven home, living costs are generally lower than those in northern states. The median house price in 2003 was $95,800, according to Enterprise Florida. The housing options are as exciting and diverse as the scenery. Single-family homes, condominiums, apartments and townhouses feature open architecture, sliding doors and screened lanais. Swimming pools with patios and facilities for outdoor cooking reflect the influence of a mild climate. Home sites on the water are the most appealing and the more expensive way to live here, but no matter where you live, you're but a few steps from at least one of Winter Haven's 23 lakes.

Winter Haven offers guests and residents a wide variety of opportunities for entertainment away from the water. Playing tennis, bowling or skeet shooting is just some of the enjoyable activities you'll find in Winter Haven. Spend the day at Cypress Gardens, the Water Ski Hall of Fame, Bok Tower Gardens or Fantasy of Flight Air Museum. Tampa and Orlando area attractions, including Disney World and Sea World are within an easy hour's drive and it is less than 75 miles to Kennedy Space Center and Florida's beaches. If you like to golf, then try your hand at one of the many golf courses in the Winter Haven area like Cypresswood Golf and Country Club. With an average January temperature set at a glorious 62 degrees, the rest of the year is sure to delight.

The Polk County Public School system is truly dedicated to superiority in education. It is the 8th largest school district in Florida and the 42nd largest in the nation. The school system serves approximately 77,000 students from pre-kindergarten through adult school classes. The system includes all the standard educational institutions and ten "other" schools, which include adult, alternative education, technical and exceptional student education centers. Several charter, private and parochial schools serve the area's students. If you are looking for post secondary education, Polk Community College, a two-year institution, offers complete career programs. There are also a host of four-year institutions within commuting distance, some of which include Florida Southern College, the University of South Florida, the University of Central Florida and the University of Tampa. Two technical schools, Ridge Technical Center and Traviss Technical Center, are also nearby for those looking for a more specialized program.

The Winter Haven area attractions, as well as the local lifestyle, are more relaxed than those of nearby metropolitan areas. Winter Haven has continued a steady, controlled growth that minimizes congestion and allows for a more enjoyable pace of life. Whether you are starting out or ending up, Winter Haven is the ideal place to live, work, retire or raise a family. If you are thinking of moving to Winter Haven, or would like more information please feel free to request a "free relocation package" today!