Cities and Towns in Highlands County, Florida
Founded in 1921, Highlands County is one of 67 counties in the state of Florida. Historically, Highlands County was formed from DeSoto. The city of Sebring is the county seat. With FIPS code of 55, Highlands County has a population of 103,296 and area of 1,028 square miles (2,663 km²).
List of all cities in Highlands County, FL alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Avon Park, FL | 33825 | 863 |
| 33826 | 863 | |
| Lake Placid, FL | 33852 | 863 |
| 33862 | 863 | |
| Lorida, FL | 33857 | 863 |
| Sebring, FL | 33870 | 863 |
| 33871 | 863 | |
| 33872 | 863 | |
| 33875 | 863 | |
| 33876 | 863 | |
| Venus, FL | 33960 | 863 |
Major Cities and Towns in Highlands County, Florida
Sebring
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 11.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 10,500 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 33870, 33872, 33875, 33876
- Latitude and Longitude: 27.4956° N, 81.4410° W
Location and History
Sebring, known as “The City on the Circle,” is the county seat and largest city in Highlands County, located in the heart of Florida. The city was founded in 1912 by George E. Sebring, an Ohio potter who envisioned a planned community with a circular downtown layout. Sebring’s location in the central part of the state, surrounded by lakes and rolling hills, made it an attractive place for settlement and development. The city is perhaps best known for the Sebring International Raceway, which hosts the annual 12 Hours of Sebring endurance race, one of the most famous sports car races in the world. Over the years, Sebring has grown into a vibrant community with a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational areas, while retaining its historic charm.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Sebring is served by the Highlands County School District, with Sebring High School and Sebring Middle School being the primary educational institutions. Major landmarks include the Sebring International Raceway, which draws motorsport enthusiasts from around the globe, and the historic downtown Sebring, which features the unique Circle Park and several historic buildings. Highlands Hammock State Park, one of Florida’s oldest state parks, offers hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping, showcasing the area’s natural beauty. The city also hosts the annual Highlands County Fair and the Caladium Festival, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage. Sebring’s combination of history, motorsports, and natural attractions makes it a central and dynamic community in Highlands County.
Avon Park
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 8.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 10,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 33825, 33826
- Latitude and Longitude: 27.5956° N, 81.5065° W
Location and History
Avon Park, known as “The City of Charm,” is the oldest city in Highlands County, located north of Sebring. The city was founded in 1886 by Oliver Martin Crosby, a Connecticut native who named the town after his hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon, England. Avon Park was initially established as a citrus-growing community, with its economy centered around agriculture. The arrival of the railroad in the early 20th century spurred further development, making Avon Park an important commercial and transportation hub in the region. Today, Avon Park is known for its picturesque downtown, historic architecture, and scenic lakes, offering a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Avon Park is served by the Highlands County School District, with Avon Park High School and Avon Park Middle School being key educational institutions. Major landmarks include the Avon Park Historic District, which features well-preserved buildings from the early 20th century, and the Depot Museum, housed in a historic train station that showcases the city’s history. The nearby Lake Verona and Lake Tulane offer opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking, adding to the town’s appeal as a destination for outdoor recreation. The city also hosts the annual Avon Park Christmas Parade and other community events that bring residents together. Avon Park’s rich history, charming downtown, and access to natural beauty make it a welcoming and attractive community in Highlands County.
Lake Placid
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 3.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,300 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 33852, 33862
- Latitude and Longitude: 27.2961° N, 81.3631° W
Location and History
Lake Placid, often referred to as the “Caladium Capital of the World,” is a small town located in the southern part of Highlands County. The town was originally named Lake Stearns when it was founded in 1912, but it was renamed Lake Placid in 1927 after Dr. Melvil Dewey, the inventor of the Dewey Decimal System, who was instrumental in developing the area. Lake Placid is known for its vibrant caladium industry, producing nearly all of the world’s supply of these colorful plants. The town is also famous for its more than 40 murals that decorate the buildings in the downtown area, earning it the nickname “Town of Murals.” Lake Placid’s scenic lakes and lush landscapes make it a popular destination for both residents and visitors.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lake Placid is served by the Highlands County School District, with Lake Placid High School and Lake Placid Middle School being the main educational institutions. Major landmarks in Lake Placid include the murals that adorn the downtown area, each depicting a different aspect of the town’s history and culture. The Lake Placid Historical Society Museum, located in a historic railroad depot, offers exhibits on the town’s past and its development. The annual Caladium Festival, held in July, celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage with arts and crafts, food vendors, and tours of local caladium fields. Lake Placid’s blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and strong community spirit make it a unique and picturesque town in Highlands County.
Map of Cities in Highlands County, FL
