In this guide, we’ll cover:

Are you thinking about moving to the Sunshine State? If so, you’re in luck! Orlando, Florida is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of theme parks, sports, or the arts, you’ll find plenty to do there. And with its sunny weather, it’s no wonder that Orlando is a popular destination for people of all ages.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes Orlando such a great place to live. From its world-famous theme parks to its diverse culinary scene and flourishing art community, we’ll explore all the reasons why Orlando is an ideal destination for people from all walks of life. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into what makes this enchanting city so special.

Pros and Cons of Living in Orlando

If you’re a fan of roller coasters, water rides, or just want to meet your favorite Disney characters, you’ll find plenty to do here. Orlando is home to some of the most famous theme parks in the world, including Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. And with an average of 233 sunny days per year, Orlando is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re playing golf, going for a swim, or just taking a walk in the park, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun.

In addition to its world-famous theme parks and sunny weather, Orlando also has a growing job market and diverse culinary scene. With major employers like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Lockheed Martin, there are plenty of opportunities for work in a variety of industries. And when it comes to food, Orlando’s culinary scene has something for everyone. From Cuban sandwiches to Vietnamese pho, you’ll find a wide variety of cuisines here. With many local chefs and restaurants gaining national recognition, there’s always something new and exciting to try.

While Orlando has many great things to offer, there are some downsides to living here. During peak season, the city can get crowded with tourists, which can make it difficult to get around town and lead to longer wait times at restaurants and other attractions. Additionally, like many cities in Florida, Orlando can have heavy traffic during rush hour and on weekends. This can make commuting more difficult and lead to longer travel times.

Another downside to living in Orlando is the risk of hurricanes during hurricane season (June-November). While the city has not been hit by a major hurricane in recent years, it’s important to be prepared and have a plan in case of severe weather. Finally, with its subtropical climate, Orlando can be humid year-round. This can make it uncomfortable for some people, especially during the summer months.

Tax Rates

One of the biggest advantages of living in Florida is that there is no state income tax. This can be a big advantage for people moving from states with high income taxes. However, it’s important to note that Florida does have other taxes that can impact your bottom line. For example, sales tax in Orange County (where Orlando is located) is currently 6.5%. Additionally, property taxes in Florida can be higher than in other states, so it’s important to factor this into your budget when considering a move.

Cost of Living

Orlando is a relatively expensive city to live in compared to other cities in Florida. Housing costs are one of the biggest contributors to the cost of living in Orlando. The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment for rent in Orlando is $1,700 per month. However, the cost of living can vary depending on factors such as location and lifestyle. Other factors that contribute to the cost of living in Orlando include transportation, food, and healthcare costs.

Public Transportation

Orlando’s public transportation system is called LYNX, and it’s a great way to get around town without a car. LYNX has a network of buses that serve most areas of the city, and it also offers a paratransit service for people with disabilities. A one-way bus fare is $2.00, but LYNX also offers a variety of passes and discounts for frequent riders. You can buy tickets online, at LYNX ticket vending machines, or on board the bus.

Overall, LYNX is a great option for getting around Orlando without a car. It’s affordable, convenient, and eco-friendly. If you’re planning on spending a lot of time in the city, getting a LYNX pass is recommended. This will save you money and make it easier to plan your trips.

Traffic and Transportation

Orlando is a very popular tourist destination, so it’s no surprise that traffic can get pretty bad, especially during peak hours. Interstate 4 and State Road 408 are two of the most congested highways in the city.

The Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX) has made some efforts to improve transportation infrastructure by building a network of toll roads that provide an alternative to the city’s congested highways. CFX also offers a mobile app that lets drivers pay tolls electronically.

In addition to highways and toll roads, Orlando has a public transportation system that includes buses and a commuter rail service called SunRail. SunRail runs on a 61-mile route that connects DeBary to Poinciana, with stops in between. The service operates on weekdays only and has limited hours. The cost of a one-way ticket on SunRail ranges from $2.00 to $7.50, depending on the distance traveled.

If you’re planning on driving in Orlando, be prepared for traffic. Here are a few tips to help you avoid or deal with traffic:

  • Avoid driving during peak hours.

    The busiest times on the roads are typically during the morning and evening commutes. If you can, try to avoid driving during these times.

  • Use public transportation.

    Orlando has a public transportation system that includes buses and a commuter rail service called SunRail. SunRail is a great option for getting around the city without a car.

  • Carpool or rideshare.

    Carpooling or ridesharing is another great way to avoid traffic congestion. This can help you save money on gas and parking.

  • Relax.

    Traffic is going to happen, so there’s no point in getting stressed out about it. Just relax and enjoy the ride.

Weather and Natural Disasters

Orlando has a warm, humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The city gets an average of 233 sunny days per year, so you can expect plenty of warm weather and sunshine. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the mid-90s °F. Winters are mild and dry, with temperatures usually staying in the 60s and 70s °F. However, Orlando is also prone to thunderstorms during the summer months.

Orlando is located in a region that is prone to natural disasters, such as hurricanes and tornadoes. Hurricane season runs from June to November, with the peak season occurring from August to October. The city has been hit by several hurricanes in the past, including Hurricane Charley in 2004 and Hurricane Irma in 2017. Tornadoes are also a risk in Orlando, with an average of 2-3 tornadoes per year.

Despite the risks of natural disasters, Orlando has taken steps to prepare for emergencies. The city has an emergency management plan that outlines procedures for responding to natural disasters such as hurricanes and tornadoes. The plan includes evacuation routes, shelter locations, and emergency contact information. The city also has an emergency notification system that can send alerts to residents via phone, email, or text message.

Job Market

Orlando is home to a diverse range of industries, including tourism, healthcare, and technology. The city is known for its theme parks and attractions, which provide many job opportunities in the tourism industry. Other major employers in Orlando include AdventHealth, Orlando Health, and Lockheed Martin. The city is also home to a growing technology sector, with companies such as EA Sports and Verizon having a presence in the area.

The job market in Orlando has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many businesses were forced to close or reduce their operations due to the pandemic, resulting in job losses across the city. However, the job market has started to recover as businesses reopen and resume normal operations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in Orlando was 4.1% as of April 2021.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, there are still many job opportunities available in Orlando. The city’s growing economy and diverse range of industries provide many options for job seekers. Whether you’re looking for a career in healthcare, technology, or tourism, there are many opportunities to find a job that suits your skills and interests.

Diversity and Demographics

Orlando is a diverse city with a population of over 300,000 people. The city has a large Hipic population, with over 30% of residents identifying as Hipic or Latino. Other major ethnic groups in Orlando include African Americans, Asians, and people of European descent.

The median age in Orlando is 36 years old, and the city has a relatively young population compared to other cities in Florida. The city’s population has been growing rapidly in recent years, with many people moving to the area for job opportunities and a high quality of life. Despite its rapid growth, Orlando has managed to maintain its small-town feel and sense of community.

What To Do and Where To Go

Orlando is a city that has something for everyone. If you’re looking for thrills and excitement, or a more relaxed pace, you’ll find it all here.

Theme parks and attractions

Orlando is home to some of the world’s most popular theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld. These parks offer rides, shows, and attractions that will appeal to people of all ages.

Walt Disney World

Disney World is a massive resort with four theme parks, two water parks, and dozens of hotels. There’s something for everyone at Disney World, from rides and shows for kids to adult-only activities like golf and spas.

Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando is home to two theme parks, a water park, and several hotels. The parks are themed after popular movies and TV shows, like Harry Potter and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and The Incredible Hulk Coaster.

SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld is a marine park with rides, shows, and attractions that focus on animals. Visitors can watch dolphins and whales perform, learn about marine life, and even swim with dolphins.

Gatorland

Gatorland is a wildlife park with alligators, crocodiles, and other reptiles. Visitors can see alligators up close, learn about them, and even take a ride on an airboat through the park.

Kennedy Space Center

Kennedy Space Center is a NASA spaceport where rockets are launched into space. Visitors can take tours of the space center, learn about space exploration, and even see a rocket launch!

Arts and culture

Orlando also has a vibrant arts and culture scene. The city is home to museums, theaters, and galleries that showcase a variety of art forms.

Orlando Museum of Art

The Orlando Museum of Art is a museum with a collection of over 2,400 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from around the world.

Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is a performing arts center with a variety of theaters that host Broadway shows, concerts, and other performances.

Outdoor activities

Orlando is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. The city has a number of parks, lakes, and nature preserves where you can hike, bike, swim, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

Lake Eola Park

Lake Eola Park is a park with a beautiful lake and many walking paths. Visitors can rent paddle boats, take a bike ride, or simply relax on the grass and enjoy the scenery.

Harry P. Leu Gardens

Harry P. Leu Gardens is a botanical garden with over 50 acres of gardens to explore. Visitors can see a variety of flowers, plants, and trees, and even take a guided tour.

Day trips

If you’re looking for a change of pace, you can take a day trip to one of the many nearby cities, such as Tampa or Miami. These cities offer a variety of attractions, including beaches, museums, and historical sites.

No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in Orlando. So what are you waiting for? Come and explore this amazing city!

Schools and Universities

Orlando is a great place to raise a family, with many excellent schools and universities. The city has a variety of options for families, from public schools to private schools to universities.

Public Schools

Orlando is served by the Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) system, which is one of the largest school districts in Florida. OCPS has over 200 schools serving more than 200,000 students. The district has many highly rated schools, including Winter Park High School and Lake Nona High School.

Private Schools

In addition to public schools, Orlando has many private schools. Private schools in Orlando offer a variety of educational options, including Montessori schools, religious schools, and schools with a focus on academics, arts, or athletics.

Universities and Colleges

Orlando is home to many excellent universities and colleges. The University of Central Florida (UCF) is one of the largest universities in the country, with over 68,000 students enrolled. UCF offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including business, engineering, and education. Other universities in Orlando include Rollins College, Full Sail University, and Valencia College.

No matter what your child’s educational needs are, you’re sure to find a school or university in Orlando that’s a good fit.

Crime

Orlando has a higher crime rate than many other cities in Florida, but it is still considered a relatively safe city overall. According to NeighborhoodScout, the city’s crime rate is higher than 71% of other cities in the state. However, the city’s violent crime rate is lower than the national average. The most common types of crime in Orlando are property crimes, such as theft and burglary.

To stay safe in Orlando, it’s important to take common-sense precautions. Always lock your doors and windows, and be aware of your surroundings when you’re out and about. Avoid walking alone at night, and stay in well-lit areas. If you’re driving, keep your doors locked and your windows rolled up. If you’re ever the victim of a crime, be sure to report it to the police right away.

Orlando Utility Providers

Orlando has several utility providers that serve the city and surrounding areas. The city’s water and sewer services are provided by the Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC), which serves over 400,000 customers. The OUC is a not-for-profit public utility that is owned by the city of Orlando. The OUC also provides electric and natural gas services to some areas of the city.

In addition to the OUC, there are several other utility providers in Orlando. Duke Energy provides electric service to many areas of the city, while TECO Peoples Gas provides natural gas service. Spectrum is one of the largest cable and internet providers in the area, offering high-speed internet and cable TV service to many residents.

Orlando Neighborhoods

Orlando is a large city with a variety of neighborhoods to choose from. Some of the most popular neighborhoods include:

Downtown Orlando

Downtown Orlando is a vibrant and exciting neighborhood with a lot to offer residents and visitors alike. The area is home to a variety of restaurants, bars, shops, and cultural attractions, including the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, the Orlando Museum of Art, and the Orlando Science Center.

Winter Park

Winter Park is a charming and historic city located just north of Orlando. The area is known for its beautiful parks, its eclectic shops and restaurants, and its proximity to Rollins College.

Lake Nona

Lake Nona is a master-planned community located southeast of Orlando. The area is known for its innovative businesses, its commitment to sustainability, and its beautiful parks and trails.

When choosing a neighborhood in Orlando, it’s important to consider your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a lively and exciting place to live, Downtown Orlando is a great option. If you prefer a more relaxed and suburban setting, Winter Park or Lake Nona may be a better fit.

No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find a neighborhood in Orlando that’s perfect for you.

In addition to these popular neighborhoods, there are many other great places to live in Orlando. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect place to call home.

Moving to Orlando

Moving to Orlando can be a blast! The Greater Orlando area is a popular relocation destination for families who want to enjoy Florida’s great weather, theme parks, beaches, and work-from-home opportunities. When you establish Florida residency, you’ll be eligible for resident-only discounts and passes to Walt Disney World, Legoland, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, and more.

If you’re looking for a more tranquil setting, Winter Park is a great option. The neighborhood is known for its beautiful parks and lakes. It’s also home to Rollins College, one of the best liberal arts colleges in the country. If you’re looking for a more bustling area with plenty to do, College Park is a great choice.

There are plenty of top-quality K-12 educational options in Orlando, including Orlando Science Middle High Charter and Osceola County School of Arts. The cost of living in Orlando is relatively low compared to other major cities in the U.S.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your move to Orlando today!