Living in Orlando, FL

Are you considering moving to Orlando, FL? Here are ten things to know about life in Orlando and the common reasons people make the move!

Home to dozens of theme parks and world-renowned attractions, Orlando, Florida, is the 23rd largest metropolitan area in the United States. With over two million current residents living in the Orlando area, the city is growing fast and has some great neighborhoods.

Roughly 138 people move to Orlando every single day. Considered the most visited tourist destination in the country, the city sees more than 70 million visitors each year. While the economy may be driven by tourism and the desire to make long-lasting memories, Orlando is more than just a great place to visit.

Nicknamed "The City Beautiful," Orlando is located in Orange County and is one of the best places to live in Florida. Providing its residents with a nice mixture of urban and suburban living, Orlando has a variety of restaurants, parks, and things to do. If you are wondering if you should move to Orlando, Florida, you have come to the right place. With the help of this moving guide, get to know the pros and cons of the area before making a satisfying decision. By staying well informed, find out why thousands call Orlando their new home.

Read on to learn more about the 10 Things to Know BEFORE Moving to Orlando, Florida! 

The cost of living.

Living in Orlando can be affordable, with a 5% higher than the national average and a 3% higher than the Florida average, according to Payscale. If you are thinking about moving to Orlando, then it is essential to be able to live comfortably. A typical worker in the city makes an average of $85,000 a year, which is an excellent and liveable salary. Compared to other cities in the state, such as Miami, the lower cost of living in Orlando attracts many residents. 

Another reason to move to Orlando is the no-state income tax that Florida provides to its residents. Yes, you read that right. Say goodbye to income tax, inheritance tax, and estate tax. Moving to Orlando can help you and your family save money wherever you relocate.

Since less money is coming out of your paycheck each month, be able to spend and save this extra cash in other ways. Not only that, but property taxes are below the national average at .97%. With the housing market trending up 1.9% over the past year, now is the time to buy a home.

Real Estate Costs

In October 2023, the median listing price for a home in Orlando, FL, was about $399K, trending up 1% year-over-year. The prices here were up 6.1% compared to last year, and on average, homes will sell after about 24 days, which is almost the same as last year. 

The price growth for homes in Orlando is due to the influx of new residents entering the city and the limited supply of homes. However, the housing market here is starting to stabilize, but be aware that the market is still considered a seller's market. 

If you are intersted in buying a home and moving to Orlando, check out the best neighborhoods in Orlando to find the perfect area for you. 

Prepare for the weather. 

Living in Orlando means embracing the humid subtropical climate of central Florida. Known for its mild winters and sweltering and sunny summers, residents will have a love-hate relationship with Mother Nature. Ranking as the 10th hottest for summer weather, it may take up to three weeks to officially adjust to the Orlando heat.

In the summer, expect average daily temperatures to reach 90 degrees. Meanwhile, in the winter, Orlando can get surprisingly cold and dry. The coldest month is January, with an average high temperature of 70 degrees and a low of 50 degrees. So if you are relocating to the area, pack some warm clothes. 

While the seasons tend to blend, there is an annual rainy period to prepare for that will require the use of a rain jacket and umbrella. From June through September, afternoon rain showers and thunderstorms are a part of day-to-day life.

With temperatures at or above 90 degrees, the humidity is sure to pack a punch. With an average of 105 days out of the year experiencing 90-degree weather in Orlando, this rain might be a nice reprieve from the scorching heat.

Live next to a theme park.

Did you know that the Walt Disney World resort area is so big that it can fit the entire city of San Francisco? Most notable for being the hot spot of theme parks, moving to Orlando means having direct access to some of the world's most popular attractions and tourist destinations. Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Seaworld, Discovery Cove, and LEGOland are all in Orlando, Florida.

While living near these mega theme parks might seem hectic and not worth the hassle, residents will get a leg up when purchasing tickets. Since these theme parks want to fill the gardens when there are fewer tourists, most parks offer considerable discounts to residents. If you'd like to take advantage of the resident discounts, you can check with the theme park websites to purchase tickets and start planning your day trip. Who wouldn't want to have Mickey in their backyard?

There is always something to do.

If theme parks differ from your thing, Orlando still has something for you. Whether you are a young professional or are relocating with family, there is always an event to attend or something to do that will make your impending move to Orlando more exciting—experience all Orlando offers outside of a theme park without traveling too far.

Check out some of these fun events and local destinations:

• Orlando Film Festival: Dedicated to independent filmmakers to showcase their work, the Orlando Film Festival is celebrating its 11th year and brings in over 1,000 entries from filmmakers worldwide. 
• The Orlando Science Center: Learn about science and technology in this state-of-the-art museum through hands-on learning and discovery. 
• The Orlando Museum of Art: Founded in 1924, I admire exhibits and beautiful works of art. Check the website to enjoy free admission on select days.

Orlando is the perfect place to find a job.

Ranking among the best cities for job seekers in 2021, if you are relocating to Orlando and need a job, then you are in luck. While the service industry may be the most significant industry for hiring, there is no shortage of employment opportunities.

On the downside, many available jobs are low-wage unless it is a management position. Unfortunately, the workers in Orlando are known to make 22% less than the national average since most jobs are hospitality-related. But if you have always dreamed of working at Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, or one of the many Orlando hotels, this is the place for you. 

Suppose you are determined to find a job paying higher than minimum wage and are not moving with a current employer. In that case, some other options and industries exist to explore, ranging from technology to construction. If you are interested in the healthcare industry, Orlando Health and AdventHealth Orlando are fantastic hospitals to work for near Downtown Orlando and Lake Nona.

Home to multiple Fortune 500 companies, Orlando has been ranked number seven in the United States regarding job growth. With over 88% of companies in Orlando having current job opportunities, there is a job for everyone in the city. 

Check out some of these other large companies headquartered in the Orlando area: 

• NBC Universal
• Amazon
• AAA
• Siemens
• JetBlue
• The Golf Channel
• Orange County Public Schools
• Merlin Entertainment Group
• Oracle Corporation

The amazing opportunities.

The Orlando area is praised for its highly-rated school systems. Home to multiple top-notch school districts, your school-aged children will be provided with some of the best education in the country. One of Orlando's finest public school districts is the Seminole County Public School System, which teaches over 66,000 students and currently holds a 14 to 1 student-to-teacher ratio. With over 60% of students proficient in reading and math, your children will excel inside and outside the classroom.

The Orange County Public School System is another school system that teaches over 200,000 students. With 202 public schools in the district alone, choose an elementary, middle, and high school. Before finding a home, it might be a good idea to research schools beforehand and select a neighborhood that directly feeds into the schools you want your kids to attend. Remember that there are many private school options in the area to consider.

For those interested in higher education opportunities, the University of Central Florida is located in Orlando and is the second-largest university in the United States. This public research university has almost 72,000 students and offers up to 230 degree programs. On the other hand, if you are searching for a state university at half the cost, consider attending Valencia College.

It offers over 120 programs to its students to earn a two- or four-year degree. Valencia College is now also offering a dual enrollment program to high school students that will allow them to take college courses and earn college credit. Through this program, students can earn both a high school diploma and a college degree simultaneously.

One of the benefits of moving to Orlando is having access to some of the best higher education institutions in the country. Since there are 40 public colleges and universities in Florida, use your in-state tuition status to your advantage. Whether you seek a K-12 or college education, visit the Florida Department of Education website for more information regarding school districts or scholarships.

It is a sports fan haven.

Orlando loves all things sports. Residents will cheer them on with pride, whether it be a college or professional team. Orlando will support you if you love basketball, baseball, football, soccer, hockey, or any other sport. The Orlando Magic professional basketball team is based in Orlando and is part of the Eastern Conference Southeast Division in the NBA.

Playing at the Amway Stadium downtown, bring the family and catch a game. The Orlando Solar Bears ice hockey team, an affiliate of the Tampa Bay Lighting, also plays at the Amway Stadium. For soccer fans, the Orlando City Soccer Club competes in the Eastern Conference of Major League Soccer and plays at the Exploria Stadium. With the abundance of sports teams playing in and around the area, there is always a supply of games to watch.

Public transportation is a must. 

Since so many tourists are visiting the local theme parks, traffic is a daily occurrence. This frequent highway congestion on Interstate 4 can add unwanted stress to your daily work commute. Fortunately, Interstate 4 is undergoing a 21-mile highway makeover that should be completed by the end of 2021. This highway construction aims to improve commute time and cut overall traffic congestion in Orlando.

In the meantime, considering the public transportation options available to Orlando residents might be a good idea. The LYNX bus system is a popular transportation mode with routes all over the city. Or, hop aboard the SunRail, a diesel and electric commuter train. Instead of sitting in standstill traffic, save time and stress by taking public transportation. Make sure to also factor in commuting time when buying a home.

The diverse dining options. 

Becoming one of the hottest spots for new restaurant openings, Orlando is quickly becoming a foodie destination. Experiencing tremendous growth over the past few years, the dining scene in Orlando is transitioning into a new era.

What was once only the land of chain restaurants has now transformed into a city of international cuisine and vibrant flavors. From fine dining establishments to contemporary chic eateries, dining out in Orlando is a tasty experience. With Disney Springs in Walt Disney World bringing in top chef-branded restaurants, you will want to eat out daily.

Check out these Orlando favorite restaurants:

• The Polite Pig: Located in Disney Springs, this eatery serves up some of the best southern cuisines in Orlando. Enjoy pulled pork, fennel-apple slaw, and grilled street corn paired with the company's Swine Family Beers, cocktails, ciders, and bourbon.
• Frontera Cocina: Also found in Disney Springs, chef Rick Bayless brings to life flavors dedicated to the Yucatan Peninsula. Try chipotle chicken enchiladas or spicy grilled bass alongside a classic margarita.
• Artisan's Table: Serving burgers, freshly brewed coffee, and other modern American favorites in a light, airy space in Downtown Orlando's Church District.

Pros and Cons - Orlando, FL

Pros:

• Sunshine year long
• Lots of things to do
• Good job market
• Good food scene
• No state income tax

Cons:

• High cost of living
• Lots of traffic
• Very touristy
• Heat and humidity

FAQS

Is Orlando a good place to move?

Overall Orlando is a good place to live for people who love the sun, the warm weather, many things to do, and fast-paced life. As well as low taxes. 

What salary do you need to live in Orlando?

To live comfortably in Orlando it is estimated to have about $65K a year. However, this number does vary depending on your lifestyle and preferences. 

Is Orlando affordable to live in?

Overall, the cost of living for Orlando is 3% higher than the state average as well as 5% higher than the national average, so it is not considered to be very affordable. 

Moving to Orlando, FL - The Bottom Line 

Famous for its beautiful scenery, tourist attractions, and warm climate, it is no surprise that Orlando is gaining thousands of new residents yearly. Ranked as the third fastest-growing market in the United States, now is the perfect time to move here.

If you are considering moving to Orlando, you will quickly discover why it is such an incredible place to live. With the help of our team of knowledgeable real estate specialists in Orlando! Find a home that meets your needs while keeping safety in mind - Contact us today!

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