Lakeland, FL
Population 117,030 · Florida
About Lakeland, FL
Lakeland is a major city located in Florida with a population of 117,030 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $60,947 per year, which is 19% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 39.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Lakeland features a median home value of $229,100, which is 6% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Lakeland in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,299, 12% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 53,926 total housing units, 56% are owner-occupied (25,983 units) and 44% are renter-occupied (20,356 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Lakeland shows an unemployment rate of 5.1%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 14.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Lakeland have an average one-way commute time of 23.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
27.7% of Lakeland residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 3.0% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 7.6% Black or African American, and 5.8% Asian residents, with 10.7% of the population being foreign-born.
How Lakeland Ranks in Florida
Cost of Living in Lakeland, FL
Compared to national averages, Lakeland has a median household income of $60,947 (19% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $229,100, which is 6% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,299 is 12% above the US average of $1,163. Within Florida, Lakeland's income is 20% below the state average of $75,893, and home values are 35% below the state median of $353,675.
Why Live in Lakeland, FL?
Lakeland offers affordable housing with a median home value of $229,100, below the US average of $244,900, and short commute times averaging just 23.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($60,947) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Lakeland provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Lakeland has a population of 117,030 with a median age of 39.9 years. Compare Lakeland with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Florida.
Similar Cities Near Lakeland
Cities in Florida with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clearwater | 117,075 | $64,440 | $326,100 | Compare |
| Brandon | 116,365 | $77,068 | $293,800 | Compare |
| Spring Hill | 118,814 | $66,557 | $248,400 | Compare |
| West Palm Beach | 119,508 | $69,261 | $369,800 | Compare |
| Pompano Beach | 112,212 | $63,832 | $321,900 | Compare |
| Miami Gardens | 111,264 | $60,979 | $337,200 | Compare |
| Palm Bay | 125,273 | $67,521 | $248,000 | Compare |
| Riverview | 107,776 | $95,442 | $341,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Florida
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Lakeland With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Lakeland
What is the population of Lakeland, FL?
The population of Lakeland, FL is 117,030 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Florida.
What is the median household income in Lakeland?
The median household income in Lakeland, FL is $60,947 per year, which is 19% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Lakeland?
The median home value in Lakeland, FL is $229,100, which is 6% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Lakeland?
The median monthly rent in Lakeland, FL is $1,299, which is 12% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Lakeland?
The unemployment rate in Lakeland, FL is 5.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Lakeland, FL a good place to live?
Lakeland offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 117,030 and a median age of 39.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Lakeland, FL?
27.7% of residents in Lakeland aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Lakeland?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Lakeland, FL: median home value is $229,100 (6% below national), median rent is $1,299/month, and median household income is $60,947. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Lakeland?
The poverty rate in Lakeland, FL is 14.5%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Lakeland, FL?
Lakeland's population is 3.0% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 7.6% Black or African American, 5.8% Asian, and 17.7% two or more races. 10.7% of residents are foreign-born.