Highland City, Florida, is a peaceful census-designated place in Polk County, centrally located between Lakeland and Bartow. Nestled within the Lakeland–Winter Haven metro area, it spans approximately 7.9 sq mi and is home to over 12,300 residents as of 2020. Originally the site of the U.S. Army’s Fort Fraser during the Seminole War in 1837, the community later emerged as a key stop on the South Florida Railroad in 1885—then known as “Haskell,” named after railroad investors—before officially becoming Highland City in 1925.
Today, Highland City maintains a quiet, small-town vibe while offering convenient access to urban centers via U.S. 98 and I-4. Its residents enjoy affordable housing, scenic lakes, and outdoor amenities, including nearby parks like the Circle B Bar Reserve. This blend of history, tranquility, and accessibility makes Highland City a desirable suburban community in Central Florida.