Lakeland Highlands is a census-designated place (CDP) in Polk County, Florida, United States. The population was 12,557 at the 2000 census. It is part of the Lakeland - Winter Haven Metropolitan Statistical Area.Lakeland Highlands is an affluent area south of Lakeland city limits. Its schools include, George W. Jenkins Senior High School (named after the founder of Publix Supermarkets, based in Lakeland), Lakeland Highlands Middle School and Valleyview Elementary. This area is experiencing high growth with new subdivisions being developed every year.GeographyLakeland Highlands is located at .According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 6.2sqmi, of which 5.6sqmi is land and 0.6sqmi is water.DemographicsAs of the census of 2000, there were 12,557 people, 4,501 households, and 3,740 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 2,248.8 people per square mile (868.9/km²). There were 4,748 housing units at an average density of 850.3/sq mi (328.5/km²). The racial makeup of the CDP was 94.21% White, 2.47% African American, 0.20% Native American, 1.66% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 0.48% from other races, and 0.97% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.85% of the population.