Ranked by Total Annual Cost Including Golf
| Rank | Community | Course | Golf Cost | Total Annual Carry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sandpiper Golf & CC | 18-hole semi-private | Included in $150/mo HOA | $7,930 |
| 2 | Highlands Ridge | Two 18-hole championship | Separate membership | $7,000 + golf |
| 3 | Highland Fairways | 18-hole executive (2,200 yds) | Low annual fee | $8,100–$8,800 |
| 4 | Cypress Lakes Village | Two 18-hole championship (36 holes) | Separate membership | $17,400+ (land-lease) |
| 5 | Lake Ashton | Two 18-hole championship | $2,400/yr optional | $11,860–$13,360 |
The Value Winner: Sandpiper
At $7,930/year total carrying cost with 18 holes of golf included, Sandpiper is the clear value champion. No other golf community in Polk County — or arguably in Florida — bundles golf into a $150/month HOA.
The Most Golf: Cypress Lakes & Lake Ashton
Both offer 36 holes. Cypress Lakes has two championship courses on 1,000+ acres. Lake Ashton has two courses winding through 1,200 acres with resort amenities. But Cypress Lakes' land-lease model drives the annual cost to $17,400+ before golf membership. Lake Ashton's CDD structure adds complexity. For serious golfers with budget flexibility, Lake Ashton offers the most complete golf-plus-resort package.
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Connect with a Specialist →The Gated Golf Option: Highland Fairways
The only gated golf community in the under-$10K annual carry bracket. If security matters and you want affordable golf with a genuine social community, Highland Fairways occupies a unique niche.