Leesburg

Highland Lakes

Established 55+ gated community with championship amenities and vibrant social calendar.

Live the MaxLife.

$280K

Median Price

$190K$440K

938

Homes

$114–$293

Monthly HOA

1991

Established

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Background

A brief history

Highland Lakes was established in 1991 as a gated 55+ active adult community in southern Leesburg, developed by Pringle Development. The community was built in phases from 1991 through the late 1990s, eventually reaching 938 homes. It was designed from the ground up as an established, cohesive community rather than a speculative development, with comprehensive amenities and deed restrictions to maintain property values and preserve the 55+ character. Over three decades, Highland Lakes has become one of Lake County's most recognizable active adult communities, with a mature base of long-term residents and a well-organized POA managing all common areas.

The feel

What it's like to live here

Highland Lakes is a mature, gated community that exudes stability and belonging. Nestled among seven small lakes and 105 acres of conservation area, the community strikes a balance between developed amenities and natural surroundings. Residents enjoy an active lifestyle with a full calendar of clubs, activities, and social events—there are over 50 special interest groups ranging from golf to book clubs to water aerobics. The physical setting is quiet and tree-lined, with nature trails winding through wetlands and around the lakes, creating pockets of tranquility amid an engaged social scene.

The community caters to 55+ residents seeking an established, deed-restricted neighborhood where age requirements ensure a consistent demographic. Homes range from single-family properties to attached villas, and the overall feel is comfortable rather than luxury—practical homes built for active living, outdoor entertaining, and minimal maintenance. The gated entry and 24/7 security contribute to a sense of safety and exclusivity without feeling ostentatious.

The details

What to expect

Architecture & Homes

Homes in Highland Lakes were built between 1991 and 1999 and range from 1,040 to 1,852 square feet. The stock consists primarily of single-family homes and attached villas with two to three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and one to two-car garages. Architecture is practical and approachable rather than ornate—ranch and contemporary styles dominate. Many homes feature screened lanais for year-round outdoor entertaining, and the community allows customization within deed restrictions. Home conditions vary from original (cosmetic updates needed) to fully renovated. Buyers should expect mature landscaping, established neighborhoods, and homes designed for comfortable retirement living rather than high-end finishes.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Highland Lakes is renowned for its comprehensive amenity package. The main clubhouse features an indoor heated pool, outdoor pool, fitness center, library, billiards room, arts and crafts studio, woodworking shop, meeting rooms, and a full-time activities director. Outdoor facilities include tennis courts, pickleball courts, shuffleboard courts, bocce ball courts, horseshoe pits, a golf driving range, and 105 acres of conservation area with walking trails around seven lakes. There are over 50 clubs and special interest groups, a picnic pavilion, free RV and boat storage, and a packed community calendar year-round. This is a community built for engagement and social connection.

Schools

Highland Lakes is restricted to residents 55 years and older, so K–12 schools are not a primary consideration. However, the Leesburg area is served by Lake County Schools, including Leesburg High School and numerous elementary and middle schools. For grandparents or adult children visiting, the area has solid public school options and several private institutions.

Location & Access

Highland Lakes sits in southern Leesburg, approximately 45 miles northwest of Orlando International Airport and 15 minutes from downtown Leesburg's dining, shopping, and medical facilities. US Highway 27 provides quick access to The Villages (20 minutes south), Ocala (30 minutes north), and Orlando metro areas. The community is close to health care (Leesburg Hospital is nearby), grocery stores, and specialty shopping. Lakes and natural areas surround the community, offering scenic drives and outdoor recreation. The gated entrance on Evans Road provides 24/7 security and controlled access.

Community

Amenities

  • 24/7 Gated Security
  • Indoor Heated Pool
  • Outdoor Pool
  • Fitness Center with Equipment
  • Tennis Courts
  • Pickleball Courts
  • Shuffleboard Courts
  • Bocce Ball Courts
  • Horseshoe Pits
  • Golf Driving Range
  • Clubhouse with Activities Director
  • Arts & Crafts Studio
  • Woodworking Shop
  • Library
  • Billiards Room
  • Card Room
  • Nature Trails (7 Lakes, 105 Acres)
  • Picnic Pavilion
  • RV Storage
  • Boat Storage
  • Over 50 Clubs & Special Interest Groups
  • Weekly Community Activities

Know Before You Buy

HOA rules worth knowing

  • 55+ age restriction (at least one owner must be 55; spouse/resident 55 if married)
  • No rentals or short-term leases without POA approval
  • Pets allowed with restrictions (typically 2 pets per household, size/breed limits)
  • Exterior colors and landscaping must comply with deed restrictions
  • Satellite dishes and antennas subject to POA approval
  • No commercial vehicles or RVs parked on property
  • Pool and amenity hours regulated; guest passes required for some facilities
  • Clubhouse rentals available for private events
  • HOA maintains all common areas, landscaping, security, and activities
  • Annual meetings and board elections govern community decisions

Market Commentary

What the market is doing

Highland Lakes offers excellent value for 55+ buyers in Lake County. Homes typically sell between $190,000 and $440,000, with most resales clustering in the $250,000–$310,000 range. The median price reflects the age of the stock (homes built 1991–1999) and home type—single-family homes command a modest premium over villas due to lot size and privacy. Price per square foot hovers around $245, which is reasonable for an established gated community with this caliber of amenities. The 55+ restriction and HOA fees ($114–$293/month) are fully disclosed and expected by buyers, making them part of the value proposition rather than a barrier. Highland Lakes represents mature, turnkey living for active retirees, and buyers price accordingly.

— Ryan Solberg, Broker · MaxLife Realty · License #BK3354351

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MLS GRID

Listings courtesy of Stellar MLS as distributed by MLS GRID

IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers’ personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing.

Based on information submitted to the MLS GRID as of June 3, 2026. All data is obtained from various sources and may not have been verified by broker or MLS GRID. Supplied Open House Information is subject to change without notice. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting the information.

Ryan Solberg, Broker · MaxLife Realty LLC · FL License #BK3354351 · Equal Housing Opportunity · Full disclaimer · DMCA