Lakeland, Florida

Lakeland, a central Florida city of 78,452, has undergone a rebirth in recent years that has brought it unprecedented prosperity. The job market is booming, beautiful sites abound, and the downtown area has been transformed into a lively center of shops, bars, and nightclubs.

Although a fast-growing center, Lakeland has managed to avoid uncontrolled development: It has preserved many of its historic buildings and has a healthy community atmosphere. In addition, its schools have developed a reputation for seeking heavy involvement from parents, community organizations, and businesses – in fact, in 2003, 21 local schools were awarded the Five Star School designation by the Florida Department of Education.

There is a lot to do in Lakeland, ranging from high-end recreation to arts to outdoor adventures. Twenty-nine golf courses are spread throughout the surrounding area, including several that host PGA tournaments and events. You'll also find several tennis clubs, including exclusive, member-only facilities and public facilities. Lakeland has a lively arts scene: the historic Polk Theatre is the city's performing arts venue; the Pied Piper Players is a dynamic local theater company; and the Lakeland Center showcases Broadway shows, concerts, and sporting events throughout the year. Some of the biggest sporting events take place at Lakeland's USA International Speedway, and, during the Orange Cup Regatta, an exciting hydroplane race on Lake Hollingsworth. Lakeland also hosts the Experimental Aircraft Association's Sun 'n Fun Fly-in. During the event, aviation hobbyists and professionals from around the world fill the city to witness air shows and display their unique aircraft inventions and techniques. And Lakeland's central location between Tampa Bay and Orlando also means that day trips to some of Florida's biggest attractions, such as Busch Gardens and Disney World, are easy.

The scenery in Lakeland is inspiring. More than 600 lakes surround the town, providing lots of opportunity to enjoy the sunny climate. You'll love the Music on the Promenade events that take place all summer along the downtown waterfront area on beautiful Lake Mirror. In fact, the city is making the area even more attractive by restoring historic Lake Mirror Park with a new amphitheater and scenic walkways. By far, the most stunning place in the Lakeland area is the Historic Bok Sanctuary. Designed by some of the best-known, early 20th-century architects, the sanctuary was a gift from Dutch immigrant Edward W. Bok to the American people. It features lush, colorful, meandering gardens, a Mediterranean-style mansion, and, best of all, an art deco- and gothic-inspired stone tower, which houses one-of-a-kind carillon bells that ring through the expansive grounds.

Lakeland is truly a gem in central Florida. Its vast beauty and opportunity make life here a pleasure.

See our 50 Jobs in Lakeland, Florida