LAKEWOOD RANCH, YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE!!!

LAKEWOOD RANCH, YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE!!!

Thinking about moving to Lakewood Ranch but feeling overwhelmed by all the neighborhood options? You’re not alone. With more than 50 communities, choosing the right one can be a challenge — which is why we’re kicking off our Ultimate Guide to Lakewood Ranch.

Today, we’re starting where it all began: the original Lakewood Ranch neighborhoods, built in the late 1990s and early 2000s. These communities remain some of the most loved in the area thanks to mature landscaping, ideal locations, affordability, and strong community vibes.

Summerfield: The First Lakewood Ranch Community

Let’s begin with Summerfield, the very first neighborhood developed in Lakewood Ranch.

Built: 1995–2000
Builders: Bruce Williams Homes, AR Homes, Lee Wetherington
Highlights:

• Mature trees and established landscaping

• Convenient access to Lakewood Ranch Main Street & University Parkway

• Many homes have recently been remodeled or updated

• Walkable with parks and friendly neighborhood charm

• No central amenity Center, but great outdoor spaces and affordability

Summerfield remains a Favorites for buyers seeking value and location without sacrificing character.

Riverwalk & Greenbrook: The “Founding Three”

Along with Summerfield, Riverwalk and Greenbrook form the trio of original Lakewood Ranch communities.

Riverwalk

• Larger lots and lush natural surroundings

• Homes along the scenic Braden River

• Easy access to Lakewood Ranch Boulevard

• Great variety of floor plans and square footage

• Mature, peaceful, and centrally located

Greenbrook

• Approximately 1,200 homes stretch between LWR Blvd. and Lorraine Rd.

• Known for shade, privacy, walking trails, and its signature community park

• Homes range from the mid-$600s to near $1M, depending on size and updates

• Family-friendly with open spaces, playgrounds, and sports fields

If you want space, walkability, and established charm, these neighborhood deliver it all.

Central Park: Early Gated Living in Lakewood Ranch

Central Park introduced one of the first true gated communities in the area, and it’s still a top choice today.

About 800 homes, plus:

• A 10-acre park featuring tennis courts, a splash pad, ball fields, and a pavilion

• Strong sense of community

• Close to top-rated schools

• Homes typically range from 1,400–2,700 sq ft

It doesn’t have resort-style pools, but its lifestyle amenities and location make it an excellent value.

Other Established Favorites

Smaller but noteworthy communities include:

• Harmony

• Woodleaf Hammock

• Bridgehampton

These gated neighborhood offer a quieter feel with limited yet attractive amenities.

Across these original neighborhoods, prices typically average around $600,000, depending on upgrades and size.

University Parkway Corridor: Edgewater & LWR Golf & Country Club

Edgewater

A picturesque, established community nestled around the 160-acre Lake Uihlein.

• Walkable to downtown Lakewood Ranch

• Waterfront and non-waterfront options

• Homes ranging from charming to luxury

• Built 20–25 years ago — many now beautifully updated

• Extremely convenient to Waterside Place and UTC

Edgewater is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods for its combination of location and character.

Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club

One of the largest and most prestigious communities in Lakewood Ranch.

• Over 3,000 homes developed across 20 years

• Four golf courses + three clubhouses

• Beautifully designed homes in gated sections

• No mandatory golf membership, making it accessible for all lifestyles

Perfect for those wanting a country-club feel without required fees.

Bundled Golf Living: Lakewood National

If golf is part of your lifestyle, Lakewood National is a standout.

• Every home includes a bundled golf membership

• Resort-style amenities: pools, fitness Center, spa, clubhouse, restaurant

• Lennar-built homes with upgraded finishes

• Strong community appeal for both full-time and seasonal residents

Esplanade: Signature Lifestyle Living

The original Esplanade at Lakewood Ranch is one of the area’s most social neighborhoods.

• Offers both bundled golf and non-golf homes

• Full lifestyle program with activities, fitness classes, and events

• Tennis, pickleball, and several clubhouses

• Home options include condos, townhomes, and single-family residences

• Typical prices:

  • Condos: around $500,000

  • Single-family: $750,000–$1.5M

If you love community engagement and active living, Esplanade checks all the boxes.

Affordable & Newer-Build Options

Palisades (D.R. Horton)

• Great price points: $400,000–$500,000

• Modern floor plans and low-maintenance living

Lennar Communities

Including Lakewood National and Polo Run —

• Slightly higher pricing due to enhanced finishes

• Known for predictable layouts and amenity-rich neighborhoods

Del Webb: The 55+ Community Everyone Knows

Though sold out, Del Webb Lakewood Ranch remains one of the top active-adult communities in the region.

• Resort amenities

• Packed social calendar

• Prime location near Waterside and major roadways

Resale homes here remain in high demand.

Mallory Park: Divosta Excellence

One of the strongest established communities built by Divosta.

• Mix of townhomes, ranch homes, and large two-story homes

• Close to schools, SR 64, SR 70, and expanding dining options

• Townhomes around $400K

• Single-family homes averaging $700K

A highly desirable option with consistent design quality and a family-friendly environment.

Final Thoughts

Lakewood Ranch’s original neighborhoods offer mature landscaping, walkability, great locations, and a wide mix of price points — making them ideal for buyers who want character and community.

In the next installment of this Ultimate Guide, we’ll explore new construction communities and everything coming soon to Lakewood Ranch.

If you need help deciding which neighborhood fits your lifestyle, feel free to reach out anytime.
And remember — always work with an expert who knows Lakewood Ranch inside and out.