Lake Ashton, Lake Wales, Florida

Surrounded by the lakes, rolling hills and the citrus groves of central Florida, beautiful Lake Ashton spreads across 1,200 acres in the town of Lake Wales (and Winter Haven). Development on this gated 55+ community began in 2004 and continues today. When complete, the community should have nearly 1,600 single family homes and attached homes.

Attached carriage homes (condominiums) are available on a resale basis only and are bundled into two-floor 20 unit buildings. Most have two to three bedrooms and a garage. The Islander and Adventurer single family series range in size from approximately 1,290 square feet to 2,600 square feet. Most come with two to three bedrooms. All have an attached two or three car garage and water or preserve views. Islander homes built after 2009 have energy saving appliances and are certified green. Adventurer homes include RV or boat storage. Mediterranean architecture is the norm. 

Prices begin in the mid-$200,000s. There is a yearly maintenance fee of about $2,500 to $2,800, a yearly CDD fee of about $1,000 and an annual $60 HOA fee. Some homes also owe a CDD (Community Development District) fee, which can be hundreds per month. These fees are approximate so please verify them with a Realtor.

This is an amenity-rich community, with the lake offering opportunities for boating and fishing. Boat slips are available at the dock. Two lush 18-hole golf courses wind through neighborhoods (membership required), and the 26,000 square foot, nicely-appointed clubhouse boasts a game room, a woodworking shop, meeting rooms, a library, a computer lab, a catering kitchen and grand ballrooms.

Lake Ashton also offers onsite banking, a surround-sound theater, a computer lab and a four lane bowling alley. The fitness center has a weight room, an indoor pool, and courts for basketball, pickleball, and racquetball. Homeowners enjoy a sports club, as well. Outside, a heated swimming pool and tennis courts await. Covered boat storage and RV storage are available.

Lake Wales is known as the “Crown Jewel of the Ridge” and has a friendly reputation. It has an extensive network of parks, including Lake Wailes Park, which has a fishing pier and a boat ramp. The Lake Wales Art Center hosts art show and concerts, and the Lake Wales Little Theater has community auditions and opportunities for volunteering. Tampa is about an hour away.

Lake Wales Medical Center is accredited by the Joint Commission.

Summer temperatures are in the 80s and 90s, and winter temperatures are in the 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s. On average, the area receives 52 inches of rain per year.