Quick Facts
- County
- Lake
- Entity type
- Incorporated town
- Major roads
- CR 561, US 27 (to the west), SR 19
- Housing types
- Single-family, lakefront, acreage
- Lake access
- Little Lake Harris and the Harris Chain
- Golf
- Courses nearby in Clermont, Howey, and Tavares
- New construction
- Limited, small pockets
Astatula Map
Quick Overview
Astatula is a small incorporated town in the central part of Lake County, sitting on the east shore of Little Lake Harris. It was settled in the 1870s and incorporated in 1927, and its name comes from a Native American word that local histories translate as "sparkling waters" or "rainbow waters." The town grew as a citrus community, and the surrounding landscape still holds groves and scattered orange trees from that era.
With a population of about 1,900 per the 2020 U.S. Census, Astatula is one of the quieter corners of Lake County. It has no interstate access, a small commercial core, and a housing stock that mixes older Florida homes with lakefront and acreage properties. Clermont sits about 9 miles to the southwest, Tavares about 8 miles to the north, and Leesburg about 10 miles away.
For relocation buyers, Astatula suits people who want lake-adjacent country living without giving up access to Clermont or Tavares for services and commutes.
Neighborhoods
Astatula's older residential streets run off Monroe Street, the town's main road and the local name for CR 561, with homes tucked among mature oaks and remnant citrus groves. Lakefront sections along Little Lake Harris and nearby lakes offer the area's most sought-after lots, with boathouses and docks reflecting the Harris Chain boating lifestyle.
The surrounding unincorporated area includes acreage parcels, former groves, and small farms. Development has been slower here than in South Lake County, so the town retains a rural, small-town character that is increasingly rare so close to the Orlando metro.
Housing
Housing in Astatula is predominantly single-family resale. Buyers will find mid-century ranch homes, manufactured homes on acreage, and lakefront houses on Little Lake Harris and the area's smaller lakes. New construction is limited to small pockets.
Lakefront and canal properties carry their own flood zone, seawall, and dock considerations, and many outlying parcels rely on wells and septic systems. Home prices generally run below the Clermont new-construction market, which is part of the area's appeal.
Transportation
CR 561, Monroe Street in town, is the main artery. It runs about 8 miles north to Tavares, the Lake County seat, and about 7 miles south toward the US 27 corridor and the Clermont area. US 27 lies to the west, SR 19 and US 441 run through the Tavares side, and the Florida Turnpike is reachable via US 27 south of Clermont.
Commutes are moderate by Lake County standards. Depending on traffic, Tavares is about 15 minutes away, Clermont about 20 to 30 minutes, Leesburg about 20 to 30 minutes, and Downtown Orlando roughly 50 to 65 minutes via US 27 and the Turnpike. The Walt Disney World area is about 40 to 55 minutes away depending on route.
Daily Life
Daily life in Astatula revolves around the lakes and a quiet pace. Little Lake Harris and the Harris Chain offer boating, fishing, and water sports, with public ramps around the chain. The Howell Branch and nearby conservation land add walking and wildlife-viewing options in the surrounding area.
Day-to-day services in town are limited: a small commercial core, a post office, and a few local businesses. Grocery shopping, dining, and medical care are a drive into Tavares, Clermont, or Leesburg. The town's location also puts Yalaha, Howey-in-the-Hills, and Mount Dora within easy reach for their bakeries, golf, and downtown scenes.
Schools
Astatula is served by Lake County Schools, and the town has Astatula Elementary. Middle and high school assignments vary by address, and some students travel to schools in the Tavares or Clermont area.
Verify the assignment for any specific address with the Lake County Schools school locator before buying.
Things to Consider Before Moving to Astatula
Commute distance
Downtown Orlando is roughly 50 to 65 minutes away. Most residents commute toward Tavares, Clermont, or central Lake County employers.
Lake flood and shoreline costs
Lakefront parcels may sit in flood zones and carry seawall, dock, and shoreline maintenance costs. Check flood insurance requirements.
Well and septic
Many properties outside the town core rely on wells and septic systems. Confirm the utility setup for any specific property.
Limited services
Retail, dining, and medical options are minimal in town. Most daily needs are a 15 to 25 minute drive away.
Nearby Communities to Explore
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Astatula a city?
Astatula is an incorporated town in Lake County, Florida. It is much smaller than neighboring Clermont, with a population of roughly 1,900 per the 2020 U.S. Census.
Where is Astatula?
Astatula sits in central Lake County on the east shore of Little Lake Harris, about 9 miles from Clermont and 8 miles from Tavares.
Does Astatula have lake access?
Yes. The town borders Little Lake Harris, part of the Harris Chain of Lakes, with boating and fishing nearby.
What schools serve Astatula?
Lake County Schools serves Astatula, including Astatula Elementary. Middle and high school assignments vary by address. Verify with the district.
Is there new construction in Astatula?
Limited. Astatula's housing stock is mostly resale and acreage, with only small pockets of new development.
Last updated: October 22, 2026. Published by Moving to Orlando Guide with Tyler Gibson.
