This is what makes Lakeland special! ❤️🏠🌳🦢 What’s your favorite thing about living in Lakeland? With a rich history dating back to its incorporation in January 1885, Lakeland has grown to become one of the largest inland communities in Florida. Our city is thriving, with a population nearing 130,000 and a prime location along the I-4 corridor, just an hour away from tourist attractions and Gulf beaches. Lakeland is also proud to operate Lakeland Electric, the third-largest publicly owned util