Lakeland

USF PolyTech the newest USF campus, aims to make Lakeland the center of the high-tech universe along Interstate 4 connecting Tampa to Orlando. The fledgling university's plans call for cross-disciplinary studies that emphasize math, science and technology as the best formula for growing intellectual capital. Down the road, tiny Florida Southern College is home to 10 architecturally significant buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. New or expanding companies include WellDyneRx, Firmenich, Pepperidge Farm, Saddle Creek and GTECH Printing. Nearly 100,000 residents enjoy an eclectic mix of neighborhoods and housing that runs the gamut from mobile homes to millionaire mansions.