Why this small-town city is catching our attention
Back in the early 2000s, Winter Garden looked a lot like Groveland, Florida does today—a charming city with a small-town feel. Groveland offers lively local events and an even better sense of community, quickly rising to the top of our list when we think about the Orlando–Kissimmee–Sanford metro area. The kind of smart, sustained growth we once saw in Winter Garden is now unfolding in Groveland. With its prime location between State Roads 19 and 33/50, this hidden gem in Central Florida is thriving and turning heads in the real estate world.
Nearly two decades ago, Groveland made headlines when it annexed a significant tract of land—a bold move that expanded the city five-fold. The population boomed, making Groveland one of the fastest-growing cities in Florida. With that expansion came a surge in housing, a wave of new local businesses, and a vibrant, diverse community. These developments mirror the early transformation of Winter Garden. Groveland real estate is on the rise, and now is the time to take notice.
Here are our top 10 reasons why Groveland is shaping up to be the next Winter Garden:
- It ranks high across the board
Grovelland scores a solid B grade in major lifestyle categories—schools, housing, safety, nightlife, diversity, and family friendliness. With a population just under 14,000 and growing, we expect those grades to climb to A status as the city continues to flourish. - Homeownership is strong
About 78% of Groveland residents own their homes, leaving just 22% renting. Compared to Winter Garden at 71% and Orlando at 66%, Groveland stands out as a place where people put down roots and invest in the community long term. - A professional, creative community
Groveland is home to a wide range of professionals, from service workers and office staff to artists and digital media experts. Its creative community, especially in media and marketing, outpaces many other cities nationwide. - A culturally diverse population
Despite its small size, Groveland is richly diverse. Nearly 20% of residents are from abroad, with many others relocating from across the United States. If you’re thinking about moving to Central Florida, Groveland should be on your list. - Centrally located with easy access
Groveland offers the best of both worlds: it’s far enough from the hustle of coastal tourism yet close enough to make day trips easy. The city sits about 70 miles from the Atlantic and 50 miles from the Gulf. - Affordability that won’t last
Right now, Groveland is in its “buy-low” phase. With its rapid growth trajectory, real estate prices are expected to rise significantly in the coming years. Like Winter Garden and Clermont before it, once discovered, Groveland leaves a lasting impression. - Strong resale values and a stable housing market
With its family-oriented, year-round residents, Groveland maintains a healthy local economy and strong property values. It’s an ideal place for both new families and entrepreneurs to grow. - Natural beauty and outdoor fun
Lake David Park is a historic gem built in the 1930s and remains a favorite for anglers, mountain bikers, boaters, and families. Nearby, Lake Louisa State Park offers 4,500 acres of stunning Florida wilderness. - A view from the top
Just a short drive away in Clermont, the Citrus Tower offers one of Central Florida’s best panoramic views. It’s a nod to the area’s citrus-growing history and a must-see local landmark. - Blueberries, not just oranges
While citrus may be Florida’s signature crop, Groveland has its own claim to fame—blueberries! Head to Lake Catherine Blueberries in April or May to enjoy seasonal picking and a true taste of local flavor.
Final thoughts
Groveland is no longer just a quiet town on the map—it’s a rising star. Whether you’re planning to relocate, start a business, or simply explore, this city has something to offer everyone. If you’re looking for a local expert to help you navigate the market, a knowledgeable Groveland real estate agent can guide you every step of the way. Groveland is poised for a major leap, and now is the time to get in early. Let’s grow together—connect with our team today and see what makes Groveland a place worth calling home.
