Polk County, Florida
Polk County is located in central Florida, between Tampa and Orlando. Lakeland is the largest city and is known for its charming downtown and swan-filled lakes. The county has a strong agricultural heritage and remains one of Florida’s important citrus-growing regions.
Citrus farming is still a major part of the local economy, while tourism continues to grow with attractions such as LEGOLAND Florida. With numerous lakes throughout the county, residents and visitors have plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water activities. Bok Tower Gardens is another popular attraction, featuring beautiful gardens and its distinctive singing bell tower.
Polk County combines small towns, agricultural communities, and rapidly growing suburbs. Its culture has a more rural and Southern character than many coastal parts of Florida. Although the county is changing quickly, it continues to hold onto its agricultural roots, offering a unique mix of orange groves, lakes, and family-friendly attractions.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Polk County |
| County Seat | Bartow |
| Population | Approximately 780,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Lakeland, Winter Haven, Haines City, Auburndale, Lake Wales |
| Interstates and Highways | I-4, US 27, US 98, SR 60 |
| FIPS Code | 12-105 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 2,011 square miles (land: 1,798 sq mi, water: 213 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Lake County (North), Osceola County (East), Orange County (Northeast), Okeechobee County (Southeast), Highlands County (Southeast), Hardee County (South), Manatee County (Southwest), Hillsborough County (West), Sumter County (Northwest), Pasco County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | Florida |
| Coordinates | 27.9783° N, 81.6946° W |
| Etymology | Named after President James K. Polk, the 11th President of the United States |
| Major Landmarks | Bok Tower Gardens, Cypress Gardens, Legoland Florida Resort |
PHYSICAL MAP
Polk County Topographic Map
Polk County features some of central Florida’s most varied topography, with rolling hills and elevated ridges. The Lake Wales Ridge runs north to south through the county, creating distinct topographic zones. Our zoom tool lets you explore the county’s more than 550 lakes on this Polk County topographic map.
SATELLITE IMAGERY
Polk County Satellite Map
This satellite map highlights Polk County’s inland landscape of lakes, agricultural fields, citrus groves, and mining areas. The numerous lakes, including the Chain of Lakes around Winter Haven, add to the county’s diverse landscape and provide a striking contrast to the surrounding farmland.
OUTLINE MAP
Polk County Blank Map
Polk County is landlocked and roughly square, with slight irregularities resulting from historical land divisions. Its boundaries largely follow early survey lines rather than natural features. The blank map below emphasizes the county’s simple, block-like shape.
Florida County Maps
Florida County Map
Looking to find a county map of Florida? Our Florida county map breaks down all 67 counties. Explore the Sunshine State with detailed topographic, satellite, and outline maps.