Cities and Towns in Polk County, Florida

Founded in 1861, Polk County is one of 67 counties in the state of Florida. Historically, Polk County was formed from Brevard and Hillsborough. The city of Bartow is the county seat. With FIPS code of 105, Polk County has a population of 753,520 and area of 1,875 square miles (4,856 km²).

List of all cities in Polk County, FL alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Alturas, FL	33820	863
Auburndale, FL	33823	863
Babson Park, FL	33827	863
Bartow, FL	33830	863
	33831	863
Bradley, FL	33835	863
Champions Gate, FL	33896	863
Cypress Gardens, FL	33884	863
Davenport, FL	33836	863
	33837	863
	33896	863
	33897	863
Dundee, FL	33838	863
Eagle Lake, FL	33839	863
Eaton Park, FL	33840	863
Eloise, FL	33880	863
Fedhaven, FL	33854	863
Florence Villa, FL	33881	863
	33885	863
Fort Meade, FL	33841	863
Frostproof, FL	33843	863
Gibsonia, FL	33805	863
Haines City, FL	33844	863
	33845	863
Highland City, FL	33846	863
Homeland, FL	33847	863
Indian Lake Estates, FL	33855	863
JPV, FL	33880	863
Kathleen, FL	33849	863
Kissimmee, FL	34759	863
Lake Alfred, FL	33850	863
Lake Hamilton, FL	33851	863
Lake Wales, FL	33853	863
	33854	863
	33855	863
	33856	863
	33859	863
	33867	863
	33898	863
Lakeland, FL	33801	863
	33802	863
	33803	863
	33804	863
	33805	863
	33806	863
	33807	863
	33809	863
	33810	863
	33811	863
	33812	863
	33813	863
	33815	863
Lakeshore, FL	33854	863
Loughman, FL	33858	863
Mulberry, FL	33860	863
Nalcrest, FL	33856	863
Nichols, FL	33863	863
Poinciana, FL	34759	863
Polk City, FL	33868	863
River Ranch, FL	33867	863
State Farm Ins, FL	33888	863
Wahneta, FL	33880	863
Waverly, FL	33877	863
Winter Haven, FL	33880	863
	33881	863
	33882	863
	33883	863
	33884	863
	33885	863
	33888	863

Major Cities and Towns in Polk County, Florida

Lakeland

Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates

• Area: 75.8 square miles
• Population: Approximately 112,641 (as of 2020)
• Zip Codes: 33801, 33803, 33805, 33809, 33810, 33811, 33812, 33813, 33815
• Latitude: 28.0395° N
• Longitude: 81.9498° W

Location and History

Lakeland is the largest city in Polk County, located in central Florida between Tampa and Orlando. Founded in the late 19th century, Lakeland developed rapidly due to its prime location along the Florida Southern Railway. The city was named for its many lakes, with more than 38 named lakes within its borders. The arrival of the railroads transformed Lakeland into a bustling hub for the citrus industry, cattle ranching, and phosphate mining. The city’s historic downtown is marked by well-preserved buildings from the early 20th century, reflecting its rich past. Lakeland is also home to Florida Southern College, which boasts the largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lakeland is served by Polk County Public Schools, with notable schools including Lakeland Senior High School and George W. Jenkins High School. Major landmarks in Lakeland include the historic Polk Theatre, a 1920s-era movie palace that now hosts concerts and live performances, and the Lake Mirror Park, which features beautiful gardens and a promenade around the lake. The city is also known for its swan population, originally a gift from Queen Elizabeth II. The Lakeland Center, now known as the RP Funding Center, is a multi-purpose arena that hosts a variety of events, including sports, concerts, and conventions. Lakeland’s combination of historical significance, educational institutions, and cultural attractions makes it the central city in Polk County.

Winter Haven

Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates

• Area: 40.9 square miles
• Population: Approximately 49,219 (as of 2020)
• Zip Codes: 33880, 33881, 33884
• Latitude: 28.0222° N
• Longitude: 81.7329° W

Location and History

Winter Haven is known as the “Chain of Lakes City” due to its location among more than 50 lakes interconnected by canals. Founded in the early 20th century, Winter Haven quickly became a center for the citrus industry, with its lakes providing a scenic backdrop for the growing community. The city’s growth was further accelerated by the establishment of Cypress Gardens in 1936, Florida’s first theme park, which put Winter Haven on the map as a tourist destination. Although Cypress Gardens closed in 2009, the site was redeveloped into Legoland Florida, which continues to draw visitors from around the world. Winter Haven’s lakes, parks, and charming downtown contribute to its appeal as both a residential and tourist destination.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Winter Haven is served by Polk County Public Schools, with notable schools including Winter Haven High School and Lake Region High School. Major landmarks in Winter Haven include the Chain of Lakes Park, which offers boating, fishing, and other water activities, and the historic Ritz Theatre, a restored 1920s cinema that now hosts live performances and events. Legoland Florida is one of the city’s most significant attractions, offering rides, shows, and attractions based on the popular Lego brand. The city’s annual events, such as the Winter Haven Chain of Lakes Festival, celebrate its unique natural environment and community spirit. Winter Haven’s combination of lakeside beauty, educational institutions, and family-friendly attractions makes it an important city in Polk County.

Bartow

Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates

• Area: 46.6 square miles
• Population: Approximately 20,147 (as of 2020)
• Zip Codes: 33830, 33831
• Latitude: 27.8964° N
• Longitude: 81.8431° W

Location and History

Bartow is the county seat of Polk County, located in the central part of the county. The city was founded in 1851 and named after Francis S. Bartow, a Confederate officer. Bartow’s early economy was based on cattle ranching and citrus farming, and it later became a center for phosphate mining. The city’s downtown area is known for its historic buildings, many of which date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Bartow’s rich history is reflected in its numerous historic sites and the Polk County History Center, housed in the old courthouse. The city’s central location and historical significance have made it an important administrative and cultural hub in the region.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Bartow is served by Polk County Public Schools, with notable schools including Bartow High School and Union Academy. Major landmarks in Bartow include the Polk County History Center, which offers exhibits on the county’s history and culture, and the L.B. Brown House, a restored Victorian-era home that serves as a museum and cultural center. The city’s annual events, such as the Bloomin’ Arts Festival and the Bartow Christmas Parade, highlight its strong sense of community and historical pride. The Bartow Civic Center and Mary Holland Park provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. Bartow’s combination of historical significance, educational institutions, and cultural landmarks makes it an important city in Polk County.

Haines City

Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates

• Area: 20.8 square miles
• Population: Approximately 26,669 (as of 2020)
• Zip Codes: 33844, 33845
• Latitude: 28.1142° N
• Longitude: 81.6206° W

Location and History

Haines City is located in northeastern Polk County, known for its citrus groves and historic downtown. The city was founded in 1885 and named after Colonel Henry Haines, a senior railroad official. Haines City’s development was closely tied to the railroad, which brought settlers and commerce to the area. The city became a hub for the citrus industry, and its economy grew around agriculture and related industries. In recent years, Haines City has experienced growth as a residential community, attracting new residents with its small-town charm and proximity to Orlando’s attractions. The city’s historic downtown area, with its vintage architecture and local businesses, reflects its rich history.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Haines City is served by Polk County Public Schools, with notable schools including Haines City High School and Ridge Community High School. Major landmarks in Haines City include Lake Eva Community Park, which offers a variety of recreational facilities, including a water park, walking trails, and a fishing pier. The city’s annual events, such as the Thunder on the Ridge Independence Day Celebration, draw large crowds and showcase the community’s vibrant spirit. The nearby Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek Preserve State Park offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring Florida’s natural landscapes. Haines City’s combination of historical significance, educational institutions, and outdoor attractions makes it an important city in Polk County.

Lake Wales

Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates

• Area: 19.9 square miles
• Population: Approximately 16,759 (as of 2020)
• Zip Codes: 33853, 33859, 33898
• Latitude: 27.9014° N
• Longitude: 81.5859° W

Location and History

Lake Wales is a city located in the central part of Polk County, known for its scenic beauty and historic architecture. The city was founded in 1911, and its early economy was based on the citrus industry, which remains important to this day. Lake Wales is famous for Bok Tower Gardens, a National Historic Landmark that features a beautiful garden, a 205-foot tall singing tower with carillon bells, and a bird sanctuary. The city’s historic downtown area has been preserved and revitalized, with many buildings dating back to the 1920s, reflecting its rich heritage. Lake Wales’ location along the Lake Wales Ridge, one of Florida’s highest points, adds to its natural appeal.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lake Wales is served by Polk County Public Schools, with notable schools including Lake Wales High School and McLaughlin Middle School. Major landmarks in Lake Wales include Bok Tower Gardens, which is one of Florida’s most iconic attractions, offering visitors a peaceful retreat with its lush gardens and music from the carillon bells. The city’s annual Lake Wales Arts Festival and Pioneer Days celebrate its cultural heritage and community spirit. The Lake Wales Museum, also known as the Depot Museum, provides insights into the city’s history, particularly its role in the citrus industry and the development of the Florida railroad system. Lake Wales’ combination of natural beauty, educational institutions, and cultural landmarks makes it an important city in Polk County.

Map of Cities in Polk County, FL