Leesburg, Florida
Harris Chain of Lakes living with affordable waterfront and small-town charm
Leesburg, FL: Quick Facts (Updated August 2026)
What is the median home price in Leesburg?
The median home price in Leesburg is $300,000 as of August 2026. This is one of the lowest median home prices in our guide. Even lakefront properties on the Harris Chain of Lakes offer exceptional value compared to coastal Florida.
How far is Leesburg from the beach?
About 75 minutes from the Gulf Coast (Hudson Beach area). Leesburg is inland, best suited for those who prioritize lakefront living and a quiet, small-town atmosphere over beach proximity.
What are property taxes in Leesburg?
The average property tax rate in Leesburg is ~1.1%. Lake County homesteaded rates are approximately 0.9% to 1.2%. The Save Our Homes cap limits annual assessment increases for primary residences.
Is Leesburg a good place to live?
Leesburg is a small city in Lake County with approximately 25,000 residents, situated on the Harris Chain of Lakes, a connected system of six major lakes offering over 100 miles of navigable waterways. It offers small-town charm with affordable lakefront homes and proximity to Orlando's amenities, about 50 minutes away.
What is the cost of living in Leesburg?
Leesburg has one of the lowest costs of living in our guide, with a cost of living index well below the national average and exceptional value for lakefront properties.
Data sources: Local county property appraiser records, Florida Realtors market data, U.S. Census Bureau estimates, and FEMA flood map data. Figures are approximate and subject to change.
Leesburg sits in the heart of Central Florida's Lake County, along the famous Harris Chain of Lakes — a connected system of six major lakes that offers some of the best boating, fishing, and waterfront living in Florida. For those looking for affordable lakefront homes, a slower pace of life, and proximity to Orlando's amenities, Leesburg is a hidden gem. The city has invested heavily in revitalizing its historic downtown, which now features restaurants, breweries, shops, and a growing arts scene. Leesburg offers small-town charm with the convenience of being within an hour of Orlando, 90 minutes from Tampa, and close to The Villages for medical and retail services. It's increasingly popular with remote workers and homeowners seeking more space and value in a quiet lakefront setting.
Want to listen? Here's the summary:
Leesburg sits in the heart of Central Florida's Lake County, along the famous Harris Chain of Lakes, a connected system of six major lakes offering some of the best boating, fishing, and waterfront living in Florida. For NJ relocators seeking affordable lakefront homes and a slower pace of life, Leesburg is an excellent value proposition. The median home price is around $300,000, with a range from $200,000 to $600,000-plus, making it one of the most affordable options in our guide. Property tax rates average approximately 1.1%, well below Bergen County's 2.3% average. The historic downtown has a charming small-town feel with local shops and restaurants. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is about 45 minutes southeast with direct flights to Newark. Homeowners insurance is notably lower than coastal Florida, typically $1,500 to $3,000 annually. Leesburg is best for boaters and fishing enthusiasts, those seeking affordable lakefront homes, and NJ transplants who want water access without coastal prices.
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Key Numbers for Leesburg
Property Taxes
~1.1%
vs. Bergen County ~2.3%
Median Home Price
$300K
$200K to $700K+
State Income Tax
0%
vs. NJ up to 10.75%
Best For
Boaters and fishing enthusiasts, Those seeking affordable lakefront or waterfront homes, Those looking for a quiet, small-town atmosphere, Remote workers who want space and lower cost of living, NJ transplants who want water access without coastal prices
Life in Leesburg
Lake living is the centerpiece of the Leesburg lifestyle. The Harris Chain includes Lake Harris, Lake Eustis, Lake Griffin, Lake Dora, Lake Beauclair, and Little Lake Harris — connected by canals, making it a boater's paradise. Waterfront homes, from modest cottages to custom estates, offer direct access to over 100 miles of navigable waterways.
Downtown Leesburg has undergone a renaissance. The historic district along Main Street features restored buildings housing local restaurants, craft breweries, antique shops, and artist studios. The Leesburg Center for the Arts and the Melon Patch Theatre provide cultural programming. Venetian Gardens, a waterfront park on Lake Harris, hosts concerts, festivals, and community events.
The area is also known for its citrus heritage and rural character. Farmers markets, roadside fruit stands, and the annual Leesburg Bikefest (one of the largest motorcycle rallies in Florida) add to the community's unique character. The nearby town of Mount Dora, with its antique shopping and New England-style charm, is a popular day trip.
Property Tax Comparison: Bergen County vs. Leesburg
Leesburg is in Lake County, where property taxes are significantly lower than Bergen County. The effective rate for homesteaded properties is approximately 0.9% to 1.2%. Florida's Save Our Homes cap limits annual assessment increases.
Bergen County, NJ
~2.3%
On a $600,000 home: ~$13,800/year
Leesburg, FL
~1.1%
On a $300,000 home: approximately $3,300/year. Bergen County equivalent: ~$6,900/year.
Florida homeowners enjoy no state income tax and property taxes roughly half of Bergen County's rates.
This is educational information only. Consult a licensed CPA or tax attorney for advice specific to your situation.
Schools & Education
Leesburg is served by Lake County Schools, a growing district serving the Central Florida area. The district has invested in new schools and programs to accommodate the region's population growth.
- Leesburg High School with growing academic programs
- Lake County School District magnet and career academy options
- Multiple elementary schools serving the Leesburg area
- Charter and private school options near the Leesburg area
- Lake-Sumter State College with local campus
- Proximity to University of Florida and UCF
Getting Back to New Jersey
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is about 50 minutes southeast. Orlando Sanford International (SFB) is about 45 minutes east. Driving to Bergen County is approximately 14-15 hours via I-95.
Insurance Considerations
Homeowners insurance in Leesburg is affordable compared to coastal Florida, typically $1,500 to $3,500 annually. The inland location reduces hurricane risk. Lakefront properties may need flood insurance separately.
Insurance rates and availability vary by carrier, location, and property type. Consult your carrier or a licensed Florida insurance agent for current rates and coverage options.
Renting in Leesburg
Central Florida's lakefront city with affordable rents and a growing community.
Rental Market Snapshot
What Renters Are Paying
Average rent across all unit types: approximately $1,500/mo.
What You Get for That Rent
Leesburg is a lakefront city in Central Florida offering affordable rents and a growing community. The rental market includes apartments, townhomes, and single-family rentals. The city is surrounded by lakes and offers boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation year-round.
Florida Renter Protections: What You Need to Know
Security Deposits
Florida does not cap security deposits. Landlords can charge any amount, though one to two months' rent is standard. Landlords must hold deposits in a separate non-interest-bearing account or post a surety bond. After move-out, they have 15 days to return the deposit with no deductions, or 30 days to send written notice of any claimed damages.
Lease Terms and Notice
Florida is a default-eviction state. Landlords can terminate a month-to-month tenancy with 15 days' written notice. For nonpayment of rent, landlords can issue a 3-day notice to pay or vacate. There is no statewide just-cause eviction requirement, though local ordinances may add protections.
HOA Rental Restrictions
Many Leesburg communities are governed by HOAs that restrict rentals. Common restrictions include minimum lease terms of 6 to 12 months, caps on the percentage of units that can be rented, and tenant approval requirements. Always verify HOA rules before signing a lease, as these restrictions can limit your options.
Source: Florida Statutes Chapter 83, Landlord and Tenant
Where Lake Life Begins
Leesburg offers one of the most affordable rental markets in Central Florida, especially for those who want lake access without coastal price tags. The Harris Chain of Lakes defines the lifestyle here. Renters can find apartments near Venetian Gardens, townhomes along Lake Eustis, or single-family rentals with lake views. Weekends are measured in boat trips, not traffic jams. The fishing is excellent, the sunsets over Lake Harris are stunning, and the pace of life is genuinely relaxed.
Beyond the lakes, downtown Leesburg has become a destination. Main Street's revitalization has brought craft breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, antique shops, and a live music scene. The Leesburg Center for the Arts and the Melon Patch Theatre add cultural depth. Venetian Gardens park hosts concerts and festivals throughout the year. For NJ transplants used to small-town charm with suburban access, Leesburg offers that same sense of community at a fraction of the cost.
The outdoor recreation is year-round. Boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the chain of lakes are daily activities rather than weekend getaways. The area is also close to state parks, trails, and wildlife preserves. With Orlando only 45 minutes away, renters get the best of both worlds: a quiet lakefront community with big-city amenities and airport access within an hour. For remote workers and those seeking space and value, Leesburg is increasingly hard to beat.
Scott Selleck knows the Central Florida market. If you are considering Leesburg as a renter, he can help you understand the neighborhoods, the commute options, and what to expect from the local rental market.
Commute Options for Renters
LakeXpress Transit
Route: Limited fixed routes within Leesburg and Lake County
Time: Varies by route, generally 30-60 minutes between major stops
Service: Monday through Saturday, limited Sunday service
Best for: Local errands, medical appointments, connecting to The Villages
Driving: Orlando
Route: Florida's Turnpike or US-27 / I-4
Time: 45-50 minutes to downtown Orlando, 50 minutes to MCO
Parking: Most rentals include off-street or assigned parking
Best for: Commuters to Orlando, airport access, regional errands
Driving: The Villages & Local
Route: US-441 / FL-44 / FL-19
Time: 10-15 minutes to The Villages, 10 minutes to Mount Dora
Access: Easy access to The Villages for medical, retail, and dining
Best for: Daily errands, medical visits, exploring Lake County
What It Actually Costs to Rent in Leesburg
Monthly Rent
Median $1,500/mo for a typical 1-2 bedroom apartment
Security Deposit
No state cap. Standard is 1-2 months' rent
Utilities
Electric $120-$180/mo, water $30-$50/mo, internet $60-$90/mo
Renters Insurance
Commonly required by landlords. $12-$25/mo
HOA Fees
Some communities charge $30-$100/mo for amenities
Pet Costs
Monthly pet rent $20-$50. Breed restrictions may apply in some communities
All figures are estimates based on current Leesburg market data. Actual costs vary by community, unit size, and lease terms.
Is Leesburg Right for You?
This town is an excellent match if you're looking for:
Questions About Leesburg?
Leesburg offers incredible value, especially for those who dream of lakefront living. Let me help you explore the Harris Chain communities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Leesburg
Is Leesburg affordable?
Very. The median home price is around $300K, one of the lowest in our guide. Even lakefront properties offer exceptional value compared to coastal Florida.
What is the Harris Chain of Lakes?
The Harris Chain is a connected system of six major lakes (Harris, Eustis, Griffin, Dora, Beauclair, and Little Lake Harris) offering over 100 miles of navigable waterways for boating, fishing, and waterfront living.
Is Leesburg a good place to live?
Yes. The quiet, small-town atmosphere, affordable housing, proximity to The Villages for amenities and healthcare, and excellent lake access make Leesburg popular with those seeking a relaxed pace.
How far is Leesburg from Orlando?
Leesburg is about 45 to 50 minutes from downtown Orlando and Orlando International Airport (MCO). It offers easy access to Orlando's amenities while maintaining a quiet, small-town feel.
What is the downtown like in Leesburg?
Downtown Leesburg has been revitalized with restored historic buildings, local restaurants, craft breweries, antique shops, and the Venetian Gardens waterfront park on Lake Harris.
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