Named in reference to the terrain of the area, Highlands County was created in 1921, from a portion of DeSoto County. Sebring was named the county seat during the same year that Highlands County was founded. Nicknamed, "The City on the Circle", Sebring is home to the Sebring International Raceway, host of the Annual 12 hours of Sebring endurance race, part of the prestigious American Le Mans Series. The 12 Hours of Sebring runs on the third Saturday of March, enticing thousands of race fans from all over the world! Many of the top-name racers have hit the pavement at the Sebring International Raceway, Mario Andretti, AJ Foyt and Stirling Moss just to name a few.

Avon Park, founded in 1886, known as "The City of Charm", "The City of Champions" and the "Home of the Mile Long Mall". Avon Park Air Force Range, sports 78,000 acres to be used by the public for camping, horseback riding, hiking and hunting. There are over 5 Golf Courses speckled throughout Avon Park, leaving ample opportunities to sink few a balls, before taking a swim in one of the 30 lakes surrounding the community.

Lake Placid also known as the "Town of Murals” has over 40 murals painted on the local buildings throughout the town. Once known as Lake Stearns, Lake Placid changed it's name, due in part to Dr. Melvin Dewey, the inventor of the Dewey Decimal System. Dr. Dewey convinced the Lake Stearns County Commissioners to change to name in 1927 and change it, they did!

Cities such as Avon Park, Lake Placid, Leisure Lakes, Lorida, Sebring and Venus call Highland County 'home'. For those that are looking for a peaceful lifestyle while still within close proximity to major Florida attractions and big city life, this is the place for you! Throughout the many rivers, lakes and streams, nature is abounding in this unique community.