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Living a Small town Lifestyle in Bartow, Florida

Located east of Tampa in central Florida, Bartow is small town community 17,000. This town is formerly rural, but is now attracting all kinds of people. Its live oak trees and many preserved historical buildings give it a southern charm that is very refreshing.

At the center of Bartow is the historic downtown which includes the old courthouse, the new courthouse, and the County Administration building as well as other government offices. The town is set up in a north-south grid.

Photo of John Swearingen House courtesy of and per license of Wikipedia and Indietop20.

Where to Retire in Bartow and Home Prices

There are active adult communities in the area (see link at top left).
Zillow reports the median home value to be $175,085 in early 2021.

What Is Special about Bartow

Live oak trees, a number historical buildings, small town charm, lower prices. The Swearingen House is just one building on the National Register of Historic Places.

What Is Not Special about Bartow

A lot of people move to Florida to be near the coast, and Bartow is not right on it.

Climate and Physical Environment

Bartown is about 55 miles east of Tampa and 15 west of Lake Wales. The average July high temperature is 92 and the average January low is 51. The wettest month is July (8.5")

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Bartow's historical past is a big part of its cultural scene. Nearby Tampa has every kind of cultural opportunity.

Crime

Crime in Bartow is close to double the national average.

Medical Facilities

Bartow Memorial Hospital is in Bartow, additional hospitals are in nearby Lakeland and Winterhaven.

Transportation

Tampa International Airport is 48 miles, Orlando is just a bit further.

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