Couple moving to Lake Wales from out of state

Gianna Carter Jan 19, 2026

Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. it exceeded my expectations. Compared to San Diego it's decent.

16 upvotes

Cheryl A. Jan 7, 2026

bump

4 upvotes

Elizabeth Myers Jan 15, 2026

following this thread

3 upvotes

Naomi Evans Jan 8, 2026

OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.

Background: I'm a nurse, 54, moved here 1 years ago from Denver. I've lived in Riverside and Eastside, and traveled to most parts of the metro.

**What I love:**
1. Great outdoor activities nearby
2. Good healthcare facilities
3. Active local events and festivals
4. The people are generally decent - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Property taxes are high
2. Chain restaurants dominate
3. The food scene situation is stable and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Riverside: Great for young professionals. decent vibes, walkable.
- Eastside: More affordable, family-friendly.

**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.

**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Denver, everything felt better than expected. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are stable. Gas is wild. You can live comfortably on $90K-$130K here.

**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.

0 upvotes