What It’s Actually Like to Live in Groveland, Florida
Lakes, dark skies, trails, daily life, commutes, and trade-offs for anyone living in or moving to Groveland.
Served by Lake County Public Schools. Groveland sits next to Clermont, and many residents shop, work, and see doctors there.
Groveland is one of the fastest-growing cities in Lake County. Its population went from about 9,600 in 2010 to roughly 18,500 in 2020, and the Census Bureau now estimates more than 25,000 residents.
It started in the late 1800s as Taylorville, a turpentine and lumber town, and was incorporated as Groveland in 1922. Today it mixes a small downtown around Lake David with new master-planned neighborhoods, a large 55+ community, and open farmland that still surrounds much of the city.
Lakes, Dark Skies, and Open Land
Groveland sits on Central Florida’s sand ridge, surrounded by lakes, wetlands, and former farmland. It is quieter and darker at night than most of the Orlando area, which is a big part of its appeal.
Florida’s First Dark Sky Community
Groveland was designated an International Dark Sky Community in 2023, the first in Florida, after adopting a citywide outdoor lighting ordinance in 2022.
Lakes and Waterfront Living
Lakes are scattered throughout the city, and several neighborhoods are built around water views and lake access.
Room to Grow
New neighborhoods are rising on former farmland, while open pasture and preserves still border much of the city.
Lake David Park
Groveland’s main park sits on Lake David downtown, with boat ramps, a fishing pier, a skate park, picnic areas, and an outdoor amphitheater.
Nature Preserves
Shelley Forest Preserve has about a mile of trail through oak scrub and wetlands, and the Pasture Reserve has a 3-mile loop through former farmland.
Lake Louisa State Park
A short drive away, with 10 lakes, about 20 miles of hiking trails, and kayak and paddleboat rentals.
Downtown Groveland and Daily Life
Groveland’s small downtown sits near Lake David, with local restaurants, businesses, and the city’s historical museum. For bigger errands, most residents head a few minutes east to Clermont.
Lake David Park
Groveland Historical Society and Museum
U-Pick Farms
Clermont on SR 50
Downtown restaurants come and go as the city grows. Ask us for current local favorites near the neighborhoods you are considering.
Who Actually Lives in Groveland
Groveland draws a mix of young families in new construction and retirees, especially in the city’s large 55+ community.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2020-2024 estimates. Population from the Census Bureau’s July 1, 2025 estimate.
Trilogy Orlando, a 55+ resort community, is one reason Groveland’s median age runs higher than in many nearby cities. Most other new neighborhoods are built with families in mind.
Commute and Location Reality
Groveland sits at the junction of SR 50 and SR 19, just west of Clermont. Most commuters take SR 50 east to the Florida Turnpike or SR 429 to reach Orlando and the theme parks.
SR 50 through Clermont is the main bottleneck, especially at rush hour and on weekends. Drive times above are typical off-peak estimates.
There is no commuter rail in South Lake County, so plan on driving for work and most errands.
The Honest Trade-Offs
Groveland’s growth brings new homes and good value, but there are a few things buyers should weigh first.
Traffic
SR 50 traffic through Clermont is the main complaint. Test-drive your commute at rush hour before choosing a neighborhood.
Services Still Catching Up
Shopping and dining in Groveland itself are limited, so most errands mean a short drive to Clermont.
Taxes and CDDs
Many newer communities carry CDD assessments on top of Lake County property taxes. Homesteaded owners get an exemption of up to $51,411 in 2026, and Amendment 3 on the November 3, 2026 ballot could raise it.
Storms and Flooding
Being inland helps, but storms still bring heavy rain and outages. Since October 1, 2025, Florida sellers must disclose known flood history, so ask before you buy.
Groveland Communities to Know
These are some of the communities buyers ask us about most, from 55+ resort living to new family neighborhoods.
Who Is Buying in Groveland
Families
Families come for newer homes with more space for the money, Lake County schools, and quick access to Clermont shopping and parks.
Retirees
Active adults choose Groveland’s 55+ communities for resort-style amenities, clubs and activities, and a quieter setting.
Relocating Buyers
Buyers moving from out of state like the lakes, dark skies, and small-town feel while staying within driving distance of Orlando.
Ready to Find Your Place in Groveland?
The right Groveland home depends on whether you want a 55+ community or a family neighborhood, new construction or an established street, and how far you are willing to drive. We can help you sort that out before you tour.
