Hello From
Lake Placid!
“The Town of Murals”
Lake Placid
A Town in Highlands County, Florida
Lake Placid is a charming small town in south-central Florida best known for its colorful outdoor murals, peaceful lakes, and relaxed pace of life. Often called “The Town of Murals,” Lake Placid features dozens of large-scale public artworks that tell stories of the area’s history, agriculture, and community life. The town attracts visitors looking for a quieter alternative to Florida’s larger cities, offering antique shops, locally owned restaurants, and lakeside recreation. With more than two dozen freshwater lakes nearby, boating, fishing, and nature watching are part of everyday life for residents and visitors alike.
Lake Placid, Florida
Photo by Rostyslav Sipakov
Location & Size
Lake Placid is located in southern Highlands County in Central Florida. The town covers about 4.6 square miles and sits roughly 15 miles south of Sebring and about 95 miles southeast of Tampa.
Nearby communities include Sebring (about 15 miles north), Arcadia (about 38 miles west), and Lake Wales (about 40 miles northwest).
Its inland location places it in Florida’s Heartland region, known for agriculture and freshwater lakes.
Founded
Lake Placid was founded in the early 1900s as a farming and citrus-growing community. Originally known as Lake Stearns, the towns name was changed to Lake Placid, after the famous Lake Placid in New York. Dr. Melvil Dewey, inventor of the Dewey Decimal System, owned the Lake Placid Club in New York and saw the potential for a similar winter haven in Florida, despite the climate difference. The name officially changed from Lake Stearns to Lake Placid in 1927
The community grew steadily through agriculture, cattle ranching, and tourism tied to its scenic lakes. In the late 20th century, the town began developing its mural program, which transformed downtown into a walkable outdoor gallery and helped boost tourism while preserving local identity.
Population
Lake Placid has a population of approximately 2,400 residents.
Known For
• Extensive collection of outdoor murals
• Freshwater lakes and boating
• Small-town charm and antiques
• Agricultural heritage
• Quiet retirement-friendly lifestyle
Cost of living
Median Income: $45,476 (2023)
Median Home Price: $253,200 (2023)
Median Rent: $1,500
Lake Placid’s cost of living is considered low, making it attractive for retirees and budget-conscious households.
Things to do
• Walk the downtown mural trail
• Visit Lake Placid Historical Society Depot Museum
• Fish or boat on nearby lakes
• Browse antique shops and local boutiques
• Attend seasonal festivals and art events
Fun Facts
- Lake Placid has more than 40 outdoor murals throughout town.
- The area is part of Florida’s historic citrus-growing region.
- The area was initially known as “Lake Stearns”.
- Lake Placid was named after the famous Lake Placid in New York by Dr. Melvil Dewey, inventor of the Dewey Decimal System.
- The town attracts artists and photographers year-round.
Nearby Cities
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