Living in Orlando

Are you considering a move to Orlando, Florida? Known popularly as O-Town, the city offers a vibrant lifestyle with great weather, a thriving job market, an exciting real estate scene, and a plethora of recreational activities. Let’s take an in-depth look at what is living in Orlando like.

Orlando at a Glance

Orlando is synonymous with fantastic weather all year round. If you’re escaping the frigid winters, you’ll be pleased to know that even in January, the coldest month, the average low temperature hovers around a pleasant 52°F.

While Orlando is renowned for its tourism and hospitality industries, it’s not just a one-trick pony. The job market in this city is quite diversified, offering opportunities in fields like biotech, aerospace, education, and health services. Surprisingly, Orlando has a median age just above 37, making it an ideal place for young professionals and families.

Moreover, you’ll never run out of things to do in a city that’s home to some of the world’s best theme parks. Orlando effortlessly blends urban and suburban lifestyles, and its ever-expanding restaurant scene caters to even the most discerning palates. As of January 2022, the real estate market in Orlando is a seller’s market, a trend seen in many cities across the country.

The Housing Market

The Orlando housing market strikes a balance between affordability and desirability. While it’s not the cheapest city with an average home value of around $333,000, it’s still more budget-friendly compared to larger Florida cities like Tampa and Miami. Furthermore, Orlando’s home values saw an impressive increase of nearly 23% in the past year, making it an attractive prospect for building equity.

If you prefer a more tranquil environment and competitive property prices, explore the charming suburbs surrounding Orlando. However, potential homebuyers should do their homework and understand their budget before diving into the listings. On the flip side, the rental market is less favorable for tenants, with higher rents (averaging around $1,700 per month) and smaller apartment sizes, making it a seller’s market in this regard as well.

Prominent Neighborhoods in Orlando

Some of the top neighborhoods in Orlando, FL include:

College Park: Perfect for those who enjoy an active lifestyle and being close to the action. This area near downtown is replete with small businesses, award-winning restaurants, and a top public golf club.

Mills 50: An up-and-coming neighborhood with a thriving art community and a constant influx of new restaurants and yoga studios.

Lake Eola Heights Historic District: Ideal for history buffs who appreciate diverse architecture, from Mediterranean revival to art deco.

Parramore: This historic neighborhood offers authentic cuisine, affordable housing, colorful street art, and cultural attractions like the Wells’Built Museum of African American History & Culture.

Sanford: For those who prefer a suburban lifestyle, Sanford is a highly recommended nearby option.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Orlando FL is relative. While it may be higher than in smaller towns, it remains more affordable than many other major cities across the country. Though you’ll spend more on food, housing, and transportation compared to smaller cities, Orlando’s favorable tax environment makes up for it. Florida doesn’t levy a state income tax, nor does it have an inheritance tax. Additionally, the city maintains a relatively low sales tax rate of 6.5%.

Orlando’s Pleasant Weather

Orlando’s weather is a primary attraction for newcomers. Despite concerns about hurricanes, the climate is generally lovely throughout the year. Even in the coldest month, the average low temperature is a mild 52°F, making Orlando a haven for those seeking respite from harsher climates. Rain can be frequent, but it rarely lingers, often providing a refreshing break from the Florida sunshine.

Endless Activities in Orlando

Beyond its famous theme parks, Orlando offers an extensive range of recreational activities:

Theme Parks: Don’t miss the world-renowned Universal Studios, Walt Disney World, SeaWorld, and LEGOLAND, which provide a variety of attractions for all ages. Special discounts are often available for Florida residents.

Sports and Recreation: Enjoy active water and extreme sports at places like the Orlando Watersports Complex, Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, and iFLY Indoor Skydiving. Basketball enthusiasts can cheer for the Orlando Magic, while ice hockey fans have the Orlando Solar Bears. Orlando is also conveniently close to Tampa Bay for football and baseball enthusiasts.

Entertainment for Kids: Orlando offers an array of family-friendly venues, such as the Crayola Experience, perfect for educational and entertaining outings.

Thriving Art Scene: Orlando’s inclusive atmosphere fosters a thriving arts community. Enjoy the Broadway Across America Orlando series, the Orlando Fringe Festival, and the ZORA! Festival. Explore numerous cultural institutions like the Orlando Museum of Art, Osceola Arts, Orlando Repertory Theatre, and Mad Cow Theatre.

Science and History: Satisfy your curiosity at the Orlando Science Center and explore hundreds of museums, historic homes, and gardens to immerse yourself in the region’s rich history.

Shopping: Orlando is a shopper’s paradise, boasting regular malls, luxury stores, and an unparalleled lineup of luxury and brand-name outlets. Renowned outlets like Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets and Orlando International Premium Outlets draw shoppers from around the world.

Beaches: Escape the city for a beach getaway as Orlando is just a short drive away from some of Florida’s beautiful coastlines.

Culinary Diversity: Orlando’s location ensures an array of fresh seafood options, along with a wide variety of other cuisines. Notable restaurants include Domu for pan-Asian cuisine, Reyes Mezcaleria for Oaxacan food, Kabooki for sushi, The Ravenous Pig for modern American fare, Enzo’s on the Lake for Italian cuisine, and Knife & Spoon at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes for special occasions. Also, wine enthusiasts can’t miss the Orlando Wine Festival & Auction.

Education in Orlando

Orlando offers a wide array of educational opportunities. The city boasts multiple top-rated public and private schools for families seeking the best for their children. Furthermore, it’s home to the second-largest university in the country, the University of Central Florida, and numerous public and private colleges and universities, including Rollins, Full Sail, and Valencia.

Job Market

Orlando has consistently been recognized as one of the best places for job seekers, with job market growth showing no signs of slowing down. The city offers diverse employment opportunities in sectors like healthcare, technology, and Fortune 500 companies, including Siemens and Oracle, to name a few.

Transportation and Commuting

Orlando is a well-connected city, with three airports, including the budget-friendly Orlando International Airport. Public transportation is among the best in Florida but may lag compared to larger cities. For longer commutes, options like Amtrak, SunRail, and Virgin Trains serve the city. Buses and free shuttles are available for those living in Orlando area. The city’s strategic location also provides access to ports and cruise lines within an hour’s drive.

Given the stable real estate market, world-class theme parks, a thriving arts scene, and a favorable tax environment, it’s no surprise that many individuals and families are choosing to make Orlando their home.

 

FAQs

Q : Should I move to Orlando?

A : Whether you should move to Orlando depends on your individual circumstances, preferences, and goals. Consider factors such as job opportunities, climate, cost of living, lifestyle, and personal priorities to make an informed decision

Q : Is Orlando Florida a good place to live?

A  : So, is Orlando FL a good place to live? Indeed it is! Orlando florida good place to live, but whether it’s right for you depends on your preferences. Research, visit, and consider your specific needs and priorities before deciding.

Q : Are there any living in Orlando reviews?

A : Yes, there are many reviews and insights from residents and experts regarding living in Orlando, and you can find them on various platforms.

Q : Whats it like living in Orlando Florida?

A : Living in Orlando is pretty fun. The city offers a dynamic lifestyle with great weather, job opportunities, and quite a few attractions.