Quick Facts
- County
- Polk
- Entity type
- Incorporated city
- Major roads
- US 92, SR 559, SR 653, SR 570 nearby
- Housing types
- Single-family, lakefront, townhomes
- Lake access
- Ariana, Swoope, and other area lakes
- Golf
- Courses nearby in Lakeland and Winter Haven
- New construction
- Moderate, on the edges
Auburndale Map
Quick Overview
Auburndale sits in the middle of the Lake Alfred, Winter Haven, and Lakeland triangle, and its identity is tied to the lake country: several lakes sit within or around the city, including Lake Ariana and Lake Swoope. It developed as a rail town and city services hub.
The city has a historic downtown with local businesses, an active community center at Lake Ariana, and a pace that is noticeably slower than the coastal and metro areas. It has become a practical, affordable base for workers commuting to Lakeland or Winter Haven.
For relocation buyers, Auburndale offers lake-country living at accessible price points, with the tradeoff of distance from the Orlando job market.
Neighborhoods
Auburndale's neighborhoods range from the historic core near the downtown to lakefront streets on Lake Ariana and Lake Swoope, plus mid-century subdivisions and newer communities on the city's edges.
The city is compact, and nearby unincorporated areas carry Auburndale addresses, particularly toward the Polk City and Lake Alfred sides.
Housing
Housing in Auburndale is predominantly single-family, with lakefront properties on the city's lakes, established neighborhoods, and newer subdivisions. Townhomes and a smaller number of condos are present near the commercial areas.
The market is more affordable than the Orlando metro, and newer communities carry HOA fees. Lakefront homes bring flood zone, dock, and waterfront maintenance considerations.
Transportation
US 92 runs through the city connecting to Lakeland and Winter Haven, and SR 559 and SR 653 provide local routes. The Polk Parkway (SR 570) and I-4 are a short drive north, with access toward Orlando and Tampa.
Traffic is moderate by regional standards, with commute-time building near the Lakeland and Winter Haven corridors.
Drive times depend on traffic, route, and exact address. Depending on conditions, trips to downtown Orlando typically take about 55 to 65 minutes. The Walt Disney World area is roughly 45 to 55 minutes away, and Orlando International Airport (MCO) usually runs about 65 to 75 minutes.
Daily Life
Lake Ariana is the center of recreation with the city's park, beach, and trails, and Lake Swoope adds boating and fishing nearby. The downtown has local restaurants and shops, and the city hosts community events around the lakes.
Lakeland's larger retail, dining, and entertainment scene is about 15 minutes away, and Winter Haven's Legoland and lakes are a similar drive.
Schools
Auburndale is served by Polk County Public Schools, with elementary, middle, and high school assignments varying by address, including Auburndale High School for much of the city.
School zones are address-based and can change. Verify the assignment for any specific address with the Polk County Public Schools school locator before buying.
Things to Consider Before Moving to Auburndale
Orlando distance
Downtown Orlando is roughly 55 to 65 minutes away. Auburndale works best with local, Lakeland, or remote work.
Lake flood zones
Homes around the area lakes may sit in FEMA flood zones. Check designations before buying near the water.
Limited services
Auburndale covers daily basics, but larger shopping, dining, and medical options are in Lakeland or Winter Haven.
Nearby Communities to Explore
Frequently Asked Questions
What county is Auburndale in?
Auburndale is an incorporated city in Polk County, Florida, located between Lakeland and Winter Haven.
Does Auburndale have lake access?
Yes. Lake Ariana and Lake Swoope sit within the city, with a lakefront park, beach, and boating access.
Is Auburndale close to Lakeland?
Yes. Lakeland is roughly 15 minutes away by car via US 92, which makes Auburndale practical for Lakeland commuters.
What schools serve Auburndale?
Polk County Public Schools serves Auburndale, including Auburndale High School for much of the city. Verify address-level zoning with the district.
Is Auburndale close to Orlando?
Downtown Orlando is roughly 55 to 65 minutes away by car depending on traffic and route.
Last updated: August 27, 2026. Published by Moving to Orlando Guide with Tyler Gibson.
