Lake County, Florida Hidden Gem of Northern Lake County

Living in
Umatilla

Umatilla is one of Lake County's true hidden gems โ€” a small city in the northern reaches of the county that has preserved an authentic old Florida character that's rare to find this close to Orlando. With access to the O...

Quick Facts
Location 30 miles from Clermont
Population ~3,500
County Lake County, FL
Known For Old Florida Character, Ocala Forest Access, Affordable Living
Get a Free Home Valuation

Why People Are Moving to Umatilla

Umatilla is one of Lake County's true hidden gems โ€” a small city in the northern reaches of the county that has preserved an authentic old Florida character that's rare to find this close to Orlando. With access to the Ocala National Forest, multiple natural lakes, and some of the most affordable real estate in the county, it's attracting buyers who've had enough of suburban sprawl.



Nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and buyers on tighter budgets are discovering Umatilla. Many are retiring on fixed incomes who want the Lake County lifestyle without the premium. Others are remote workers embracing the rural setting and spacious properties.

Where to Live in Umatilla

Historic Downtown Umatilla
Small-town Main Street with vintage Florida commercial buildings.
Lake Umatilla Waterfront
Lakefront properties on the city's namesake lake with private docks.
Ocala Forest Edge
Rural properties on the forest boundary for maximum nature immersion.
Lake Kathryn Area
Quiet residential properties on one of Umatilla's many natural lakes.

Things to Do in Umatilla

๐ŸŒฒ Ocala National Forest
261,000 acres of wild Florida โ€” hiking, camping, kayaking, and springs just minutes away.
๐ŸŽฃ Spring-Fed Lake Fishing
World-class bass fishing across Umatilla's numerous natural lakes.
๐Ÿ„ Alexander Springs & Salt Springs
Pristine natural springs ideal for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling.
๐Ÿฆ… Florida Scrub Jay Watching
One of the best places in Florida to spot this rare and endangered songbird.

Umatilla Market Overview

Umatilla offers the most affordable real estate in Lake County โ€” often 40โ€“50% less per square foot than Clermont or Mount Dora. For buyers prioritizing value, nature access, and authenticity over suburban convenience, Umatilla delivers exceptional bang for the buck.


Get a Free Home Valuation
๐Ÿ 
Buying in Umatilla?
Barry can represent you as a buyer's agent at no cost to you โ€” navigating builders, sellers, and negotiations on your behalf.
๐Ÿ’ฐ
Selling in Umatilla?
With deep knowledge of Lake County values, Barry can price and market your home to sell for top dollar with minimal hassle.
๐ŸŽฏ
SRESยฎ Certified
Specializing in sellers and buyers 55+ with expertise in seniors transitions, estate sales, and 55+ communities.

Ready to Explore Umatilla?

With over 20 years of experience in Lake County and an SRESยฎ certification specializing in seniors and retirees, Barry Summers is your ideal guide for finding the perfect home in Umatilla or anywhere in Lake County.

๐Ÿ“ž Call Barry: 352-661-8010 โœ‰๏ธ Send an Email
๐Ÿ’ฌ Barry's Take on Umatilla

"Umatilla is perfect for clients who want to stretch their retirement dollar the furthest while still being in Lake County. I can show you properties here that would cost twice as much 20 miles south โ€” and the natural surroundings are breathtaking."