If you're contemplating a move to an active-adult community in Central Florida or a vacation home in the area, there's certainly no shortage of options. Lake County is one of the Central Florida counties with the most offerings in 55+ developments, so it's definitely a slice of The Sunshine State to familiarize yourself with. 

Here are some key points about Lake County to help decide whether this is an area you might want to focus on in your search for a new or second home: 

  • Much of Lake County is rural, with large natural expanses and low-density areas
  • It has around 300,000 residents
  • About half the population is 45 or older, and a little over one-quarter is 65 and up
  • This is a predominantly Republican county
  • The median home value in the county in 2015 is $167,600, a 4.8% rise over the past year
  • Lake County is centrally located in Central Florida and many major roadways pass through, facilitating easy access to lots of destinations
  • From most places, you're only a 30 to 60 minute drive from downtown Orlando
  • From most places, you're about a 1.25 to 1.75 hour drive from downtown Tampa
  • The largest, fastest-growing city in the county is Clermont, with more than 30,000 people
  • Other larger cities in Lake County include Mount Dora, Tavares, Leesburg, and Eustis
  • Mount Dora is a renowned antiquing destination
  • Florida is a pretty flat state, but Lake County is one of its hilliest areas
  • The county has over 1,000 named lakes and water-based recreation is a big part of life
  • Lake County is home to seven of the top 11 lakes in the state for number and size of bass fish
  • Nearly 7,000 acres of park land are maintained by the county
  • Play on about two dozen golf courses in the county, some nationally recognized
  • There are multiple equestrian attractions, horse trails, and opportunities for riding lessons
  • Canoe or kayak on 130 miles of waterways
  • There are lots of great hiking trails in Lake County
  • More than 30 springs, camping, RVing, hiking, and more outdoors fun are readily available at places like Hontoon Island State Park, Louisa State Park, Lake Griffin State Park, Lower Wekiva River Preserve State Park, Rock Springs Run State Reserve, and Alexander Springs Recreation Area
  • Surprisingly to many people, Lake County is home to an award-winning winery: Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards in Clermont
  • Numerous annual festivals and fairs dedicated to gardening, birdwatching, and other nature-oriented areas of interest are hosted throughout the county