2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Winter Haven, FL vs Gainesville, FL

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Highlights
Are people in Gainesville older or younger than people in Winter Haven?
- The Median Age in Gainesville is 14.2 years younger than in Winter Haven.

Are housing costs cheaper in Gainesville or Winter Haven?
- Gainesville housing costs are 3.4% less expensive than Winter Haven housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Gainesville or Winter Haven?
- The average commute for residents of Gainesville is 6.4 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Winter Haven.

Things to do in Winter Haven?
Winter Haven, Florida lies within Polk county offering tourists plenty of entertainment opportunities around Legoland Florida Resort along with local stores like The Lakeside Village Shopping Center.

Things to do in Gainesville?
Gainesville, Florida is a lively city in Alachua County. Home to the University of Florida, this city is known for its vibrant college town atmosphere. With plenty of shops and restaurants along bustling downtown streets and nearby outdoor activities like canoeing and kayaking at Paynes Prairie State Park, there's no shortage of things to do here. Gainesville also has great schools and universities, as well as several parks where visitors can take in the beauty of nature. Whether you're looking for an exciting night out or a peaceful afternoon in nature, Gainesville is sure to have something for everyone.

 Winter Haven, FLGainesville, FLUnited States
 Population  Unlock138,741329,725,481
 Median Income$50,842  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock26.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$281,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.4%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time24.12  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Winter Haven    9 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

I moved here 4 years ago from Sarasota FL., because it seemed quiet, calmer, less expensive, and a reasonable distance back to SRQ, Tampa, and Orlando. What a mistake!  More

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Definitely NOT a fan. My son moved me here without checking the rental home or neighborhood. WOW, we're we in for a surprise. It's total ghetto. I would NEVER  More

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Over 8 years ago

I lived in Bartow, right down the road from WH for many years. This is not a metropolitan area. It is middle class, bedroom community. It will take you less than an hour  More

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Reviews for Gainesville    60 Reviews

Over 3 years ago

I've lived here most of my life. It's changed a lot, and a lot of the locals don't like it. Because it's home to one of the largest universities in the country, we see a  More

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Lovely diverse city! People is nice and there is always something to do. Outdoors activities are awesome! The springs are beautiful and there are plenty of hiking  More

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Gainesville has the highest taxes and electrical rates in the state. The city is run by a bunch of liberals who have no idea what they are doing. Crime and homelessness  More

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