By Angela Williams - Real Estate Specialist - PrimeStreet.io
Moving to Orlando
Our guide to making the move!
When you start considering a move to Orlando, know that you are not the only one. The city's growth rate is the second fastest compared to the 30 largest cities in the US. Orlando welcomes more than 1,000 new residents each week.
With the increase in population, new opportunities and challenges emerge for those ready to make a change and move to Orlando. For starters, finding the perfect residence in this hot and competitive real estate market will be difficult. That's why having a knowledgeable local real estate agent on your side will make all the difference in this situation.
But let's see what exactly inspires people to move to Orlando:
- Booming economy - Orlando is home to a large number of national and international enterprises from a variety of industries.
- Affordable cost of living - settling in Orlando means you get to save up because the cost of living here is 3% lower than Florida's average.
- Shorter commute time - the commute time in Orlando is shorter than the US average, meaning you won't spend as much time in your car as you would in other cities.
Orlando is a large city with many different opportunities for people seeking a new beginning. It not only has a stable economy, but it also has a wide range of work prospects and reasonable housing prices.
Knowing how attractive Orlando is to newcomers, PrimeStreet has pulled together this guide to help you find the home that will fit all of your needs. So if you're ready to move to this Florida paradise make sure you check out our good-to-know information on how to make this process smoother for you.
What's Special About Orlando?
It's more than just a collection of theme parks!
What is so charmingly special about Orlando that makes people want to move here and settle down?
Orlando is well known for Disney World, and besides being home to the happiest place in the world, it also has plenty of shopping malls, golf courses, and vivid nightlife.
Besides that, there are more than 100 lakes in Orlando and an actual sinkhole. Plus, there are also over 100 parks and 21 community centers offering many camp and athletic programs.
Orlando is also a place for all book lovers since its Public Library is the largest in Florida, covering 290,000 square feet.
It is a place where famous Hollywood movies such as Passenger 57, Jaws 3, and Lethal Weapon 3 were filmed.
This is the city where you can experience two basic seasons. With a hot and rainy season that lasts from May until late October and a warm but dry season that lasts from November to April.
Tech Center With Numerous International Companies
Diverse job opportunities
Orlando is a major hi-tech and industrial center, with more than 53,000 people working in the industry. It is also nationally known for innovation in aviation, software design, and digital media. Additionally, it is the home of the 7th largest research park in the US.
With more than 150 international enterprises stationed in the area, Orlando has more than a few job opportunities for newcomers. When looking for work during the move, check out some of the biggest employers in the city:
- Lockheed Martin is an enterprise involved in information security, aerospace, arms, and defense. It has approximately 115,000 employees all over the world.
- General Dynamics is an aerospace and defense enterprise, and it is the fifth-largest defense contractor in the US. It is also a Fortune 100 company.
- Siemens is a German conglomerate and one of the largest industrial manufacturing enterprises in Europe. Siemens employs approximately 303,000 people around the globe.
- YRC Worldwide is a transportation holding company that employs 19,000 people all over the US.
With all of this information, you can tell that there are many different employment opportunities in Orlando. The city has a diverse and booming economy that covers many industries.
Besides tech and industry, the driving force of Orland's industry is tourism. The city even got the nickname the "Theme Park Capital of the World." With more than 75 million visitors per year, it is by far one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US.
And finally, according to data from the website Glassdoor, there are currently more than 43,750 job openings in Orlando. The top jobs being photographers, marketing managers, graphic designers, and massage therapists. All of this shows that there is a solid diversity in opportunities, so job hunting shouldn't be too hard.
Housing Market is Hot and Competitive
Cost of living is lower
Inbound migration from high-tax and high-cost-of-living locations like California is one of the main reasons why the real estate market in Orlando is currently so hot. People and businesses are searching for less crowded places with lower living costs and still inexpensive real estate prices.
Home sales in Orlando recently increased by over 25%, with homes coming under contract less than a month after being put on for sale. Furthermore, there are approximately 42 percent fewer properties for sale this time of year. With this in mind, it is crucial to hire local real estate to help you house hunt for a dream home.
Additionally, based on important investment factors such as cash flow, cheap property prices, and a growing population, Orlando was named one of the best cities to buy a rental property in 2021. According to recent market statistics, that tendency appears to be set to continue this year.
Plus, Florida has no state income tax, making the market even more appealing. These are just two of the numerous reasons why so many people and businesses flock to Orlando from other cities where taxes and living costs are excessive.
City Attractions
Orlando has more than theme parks
Orlando has lots to offer, whether you're looking for a cultural experience, want to go out and be active, or just want to rest and unwind. The following are some of the most popular attractions in the city that will keep you on your toes:
- Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando is one of the most popular family attractions. Since its opening, Disney World grew into four theme parks, an entertainment district, and two water parks. Here you'll find everything from Magic Kingdom to Animal Kingdom. When you visit, stay for the whole day and enjoy fireworks in the evening.
- Madame Tussauds is a wax museum where you can see and take photos with world-famous leaders, musicians, or fictional characters. There is a historic area where you can take a photo with Steve Jobs, Lincoln, or even Martin Luther King Jr. Also, if you are a superhero fan, a Justice League section might blow your mind. The museum is constantly adding new collections keeping visitors entertained.
- Universal Studios Florida is a part of Disney Kingdom. It is a mix of a working studio and a theme park. It started as an idea pitched by Steven Spielberg, who wanted to give visitors interactive experiences of the movie-making industry. Nowadays, there are numerous roller coasters and wet rides that will ensure you have an unforgettable experience.
- SeaWorld Orlando is famous for huge aquariums, whale and dolphin shows as well as touch pools and thrilling rides. You can reach and pet dolphins or have a close-up tour with them along with sea lions and penguins. The special tours also include a behind-the-scenes look where you can learn all about dolphin nurseries and the manatee rehabilitation process.
- Gatorland was opened in 1949 and since then has become a famous spot for all people that want to see alligators, crocodiles, and other different reptiles. Daily shows such as "Gator Wrestlin" and "Alligator Jumparoo" are there to demonstrate what these fascinating creatures can do.
- ICON Park is a 20-acre combination of open-air shopping, entertainment, and dining that features a number of wonderful attractions for people of all ages. The massive 400-foot-tall Ferris wheel that offers magnificent views of the neighborhood serves as the site's anchor. It's even more spectacular at night when the wheel is lighted by 64,000 color-changing lights.
Orlando also boasts botanical gardens, parks and a fantastic science center with hands on exhibits for all ages.
Perhaps it's greatest benefit is the central location. With home-base in Orlando, you are an easy drive to beaches on the Gulf or Atlantic Ocean. To the west lies Tampa, Clearwater and St. Petersburg- boasting beaches that have been perennials on lists of the world's most beautiful. To the East are the famous Daytona Beach and Vero Beach on the Atlantic, with the Kennedy Space complex nestled in-between them.
Major League Sports
When moving to a new city, you'll more likely than not start cheering for the home team. So if you are a sports enthusiast moving to Orlando, know that the city is the home of two major league professional sports teams - Orlando Magic (NBA) and Orlando City SC (MLS). There are also three minor league professional teams - ice hockey Orlando Solar Bears, Orlando Predators (NAL), and women's football team Orlando Anarchy.
Orlando Magic is a professional basketball team that competes as a member of the leagues Eastern Conference Southeast Division. Notable names such as Shaquille O'Neal, Dwight Howard, and Nikola Vucevic have played for the club throughout its history. Magic has been the second most successful out of the four expansion teams brought into the league in 1989, right after Miami Heat.
If you want to catch a game, know that the team currently plays at Amway Center. And if you want to get season tickets, know that the prices start at $1,399 per seat, according to the website TicketIQ.
NFL fans are in luck. Orlando sits just 1-3 hours by car away from three storied NFL franchises- the Superbowl Champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Jacksonville Jaguars, and the Miami Dolphins.
Soccer fans can also enjoy the city's major league team - Orlando City SC. The team competes in the Eastern Conference in Major League Soccer. They began playing in 2015 and became the first MLS team in Florida since Miami Fusion and Tampa Bay Mutiny.
You can catch a game at Exploria Stadium, which is located Downtown. If you want to catch a game from the bleachers, know that the ticket will cost you, on average, $40 per game. However, premium tickets can go up to $65.
Those that are big gamers will also be happy relocating to Orlando. After all, the city is hosting the annual Community Effort Orlando, the US's second-biggest fighting game tournament. This video game competition was introduced in 2010, and the event got so big that in 2016 almost 4,000 contestants from 25 countries attended.
Where in Orlando?
Our guide to Orlando neighborhoods
Orlando, located in central Florida, has a population of around 307,600 people, making it the fourth-largest city in the state. The city is dotted with hundreds of lakes which makes it geographically unique.
Orlando is home to 115 neighborhoods and countless unincorporated communities. Although many neighborhoods make it a bit harder to figure out the best place to settle in, you can't go wrong when choosing one of the more popular locations.
Just remember, there is something for everyone, whether you want to live in a hip and fancy region or in a semi-rural one. So let's have a look at some of them.
Central Business District
Those that are looking for convenience and excitement should consider the Central Business District for their next home. Located in the heart of Orlando, here you'll find everything you need right at your fingertips. The neighborhood has everything from world-class shopping and dining to trendy nightlife and cultural attractions.
The population of the Central Business District is around 3,060 people, but the neighborhood covers a really small area of 0.81 square miles. With that in mind, if you want to find a suitable home here, it is crucial to start a house-hunting process as soon as possible and that you hire a great real estate agent.
According to data from the website Niche, here are some housing markets facts about Central Business District:
- The median home value is $194,300.
- The median monthly rent is $1,639.
- Around 81% of residents are renters.
Central Business District is a great place to call home if you are a career chaser that is employed in one of many companies in the vicinity. Here you can find many corporate offices for banks such as Fifth Third Bank, Wells Fargo, Suntrust, and Seacoast. Well-known tech enterprises such as Fat Merchant and Paycor are also located here. So, even if you move without a job, it will be easy to land one here.
The heart of the city is not only about working hard. Here you can find a variety of clubs, restaurants, and entertainment venues, such as those at Seneff Arts Plaza. Also, here you can find a few prominent theaters like Mad Cow Theater and Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
Another thing that makes Central Business District a great spot to call home is the fact that major roadways I-4 and the Spessard L Holland East-West Expy provide quick and easy access to the rest of the city. And if you don't drive, there are buses that can take you almost anywhere in Orlando.
With all of this in mind, if you are looking for a well-connected, prosperous area filled with entertainment options, Central Business District can be a perfect choice. Now all you need is to hire a good real estate agent to help you find the best housing option.
Baldwin Park
People looking for a place with waterfront views and plenty of outdoor recreation options should consider settling in Baldwin Park. Located northeast of the city center, this area offers beautiful tree-lined streets, quaint cafes, bars, shops, and plenty of restaurants.
Baldwin Park has a population of around 6,000, and it covers 1.71 square miles. The neighborhood might not be the most populous one, but if you want to find a property that fits all your needs and budget, start house hunting early in the moving process. To do so, all you have to do is hire a reputable real estate agent that knows the area.
According to data from the website Niche, here are some housing markets facts about Baldwin Park:
- The median home value is $370,715.
- The median monthly rent is $1,490.
- Around 52% of residents are renters.
Additionally, when it comes to real estate here, you can expect to find not only townhouses but also split-level single-family homes that ooze with Craftsman or Colonial aesthetics. Also, the streets are well lit and very walkable, so you won't need a car to get around. However, if you need to commute, there are buses connecting the area with a downtown that is just 15 minutes away.
Baldwin Park is also an excellent spot to settle in if you like spending your free time outdoors. One of the main selling points about this neighborhood is the fact that it is in the vicinity of Lake Baldwin Park. Here you can play with your dog in a pet-friendly park or rent a boat and sail around the lake.
Don't worry, for those that prefer indoors there are plenty of bars, cafes, and pubs. The restaurant scene is quite impressive. So the foodies will be able to enjoy everything from Mexican to Japanese cuisine. When the food cravings are satisfied, you can spend the day in an escape room or playing some bingo.
Considering everything Baldwin Park has to offer, know that it would be a perfect location for you if you are looking for a slow-paced but well-connected neighborhood to call home. All you have to do now is hire a reputable real estate agent to assist you in finding the greatest housing option there is.
South Eola
If you are looking for a small community that boasts many attractive features, South Eola should be on your radar. Located east of the city center, the area offers beautiful lake views and quick access to downtown.
South Eola covers only 0.204 square miles and has around 2,560 residents. Even though it is not the most populous area in Orlando, finding a home can be tricky, especially since the offer on the market can be limiting. That's why hire a local, expert real estate agent to help you house hunt for the perfect residence.
According to data from the website Niche, here are some housing markets facts about South Eola:
- The median home value is $396,470.
- The median monthly rent is $1,585.
- Around 65% of residents are renters.
Newcomers relocating to South Eola should expect to see condos in towering apartment buildings as well as traditional homes. You can expect to see residences built in the early 1900s as well as in 2020. Most of them will be surrounded by walkable streets and plenty of buzzing, unique small shops and restaurants.
The chance to escape the urban city life is what makes South Eola so appealing. The Constitution Green may be found to the east of the neighborhood. It has a dog park for animal enthusiasts, as well as nature and bird watching, according to the listing on Orlando.gov. And besides the Constitution Green zone, there are other parks in the area. Lake Eola Park is located on the north end, and it provides residents with a 9-mile sidewalk around the lake, swan-boat rentals, bird-watching, and the Walt Disney Amphitheater.
Besides enjoying outdoor activities, you can also enjoy concerts and comedy shows in the area. And when you need a breather, stop by one of many cafes, and enjoy americano or matcha latte. You can also check out Bynx and shop for vintage goods such as vinyl and other eclectic objects.
Foodies will be able to enjoy unique brunch experiences if they stop by The Stubborn Mule. And if you like American food, there is always a table at Menagerie Eatery & Bar waiting for you. For more high-end dining experiences, check out 310 Lakeside.
Plenty of entertainment options and lovely views are just some of the things that attract people to South Eola. Another thing that makes it an excellent spot to call home is its vicinity to downtown. If you are a professional working in the business hub, you'll be able to reach the office via Spessard L. Holland East-West Toll road in no time.
Thorton Park
Are you ready to move to one of the most chic neighborhoods in Orlando, Florida, because that's what you'll get if you opt for Thornton Park. Located east of the city center, this residential area is known for its European feel, fountains, and wide streets.
Thornton Park is an incredibly small neighborhood, covering 0.120 square miles, and counting around 1,000 residents. Taking into consideration the popularity of this area, it can be said that the housing market is extremely competitive. That being said, if you actually want to live here, you should hire an experienced local real estate agent to help you find a dream home.
According to data from the website Niche, here are some housing markets facts about Thornton Park:
- The median home value is $352,030.
- The median monthly rent is $1,235.
- Around 70% of residents are homeowners.
Since Thornton Park is considered one of Orlando's most boho-chic locations, you can expect to run into unusual venues that play indie music, as well as plenty of restaurants nestled among apartment buildings and bungalows.
It is a wonderful area with vintage shops, yearly festivals, and a weekly farmers market, all giving Thornton Park an urban-suburban vibe. Also, parents with kids will be happy to learn that there are highly ranked schools in the area. Institutions such as Boone High School and Hillcrest Elementary School will be able to provide your children with an above-average education.
This might be a great place for young professionals to live. Because it is one of Orlando's key street districts, there is usually a celebration going on, such as the Art & Wine Walk, which takes place every second Thursday. Also, the Downtown business hub is mere 10 minutes away.
College Park
If you are dreaming of living in a one-of-a-kind, close-knit neighborhood, look no further than College Park. Located north of the city center, this area is popular for views of the downtown skyline, watersports, and plenty of shopping options.
College Park has a population of around 11,080 residents, and that number keeps on growing. With that in mind, you should be aware that the housing market is really competitive, so finding a home might be a tricky business. Luckily, with the right, experienced local real estate agent who knows all the neighborhood's ins and outs, you'll find the perfect home in no time.
According to data from the website Niche, here are some housing markets facts about College Park:
- The median home value is $365,970.
- The median monthly rent is $1,290.
- Around 72% of residents are homeowners.
While we are talking about housing, you should know that most housing units are built between 1940 and 1959. However, there are also modern residences built in the 2000s and later. Here you can expect to find brick streets lined with single-family homes as well as bungalows.
With a name like College Park, you would expect constant parties thrown by students. However, the neighborhood doesn't have any colleges, but that doesn't mean that it cannot offer buzzing nightlife to all of its residents. When you are ready to bar-hop, there are different locations to check out. There is something for everyone from Ollie's Public House to The Local College Park.
Those who enjoy shopping will also be pretty happy here because there are numerous shops. Driftwood Market, Bijou's Boutique, Ritzy Rags, and Top Drawer Consignments are some of the local stores providing a diverse selection of merchandise. There are also a lot of specialized stores. For example, if you need anything, bike-related Orange Cycle is a place to visit. Naked Bar Soap Co is for all of those looking for handcrafted bath and body essentials.
Another thing that makes College Park stand out is its offer of outdoor activities. There are ten public parks in the area, so you'll get to enjoy plenty of green space, picnic spots, and basketball courses. You can also take advantage of different lakes through the location and enjoy all water-related activities.
College Park gets bonus points for its accessibility as well. It is connected with the rest of the city via I-4, Fairbanks Avenue, Colonial Drive, Orange Avenue, and Highway 441. So if you get a job Downtown, you'll be only two miles away, so the commute to the office will be quick. If you don't own a car, a few public transportation options are available.
Overall, no matter who you are, there will always be something that appeals to you when it comes to College Park. Whether that is the vicinity to the business core of Orlando or plenty of outdoor activities the neighborhood has to offer.
Park Lake-Highland
You can't go wrong if you choose to settle in Park Lake Highland. This area located north of the city center is one of the best neighborhoods in Orlando because of its beautiful lake views and vibrant streets.
Park Lake Highland is not the most populous part of the city, and it only has around 2,560 residents. However, fewer people in the area doesn't mean that finding a home will be easy, especially if you are looking for the one that will fit all of your needs and desires. To be able to find the best one in a short period of time without too much of a fuss, you'll need to hire a local real estate agent to help you.
According to data from the website Niche, here are some housing markets facts about Park Lake-Highland:
- The median home value is $258,300.
- The median monthly rent is $1,320.
- Around 78% of residents are renters.
When looking for a home in Park Lake Highland, you can expect to see tree-lined streets filled with colonial or Mediterranean-style single-family homes, as well as some ranches. Don't worry if you don't need all that space, there are some apartments in the area too.
Newcomers looking for a place to live here will be impressed by the number of outdoor activities available. After all, Lake Highland and Park Lake offer more than a few waterfront activities. There will be something to keep you entertained, from riding a bike to lounging by the water or playing frisbee with your dog.
Those that prefer indoor activities can enjoy fitness classes and lifting events in Backbone Barbell. Also, along Mills Avenue, you'll find plenty of shops, eateries, and pubs. There are even cinemas, vinyl shops, and live music venues.
Those moving with kids will be happy to learn that there are plenty of highly ranked educational institutions nearby. From Lake Highland Preparatory School to Orlando Gifted Academy. Your kids will surely be able to receive the great education they deserve.
Finally, the area is connected with the rest of the city via E Colonial Drive, I-4 Express, and Mills Avenue, making the commute easy, fast and stress-free. So, no matter if you are a young professional looking for a laid-back location or a family, Park Lake Highland can be the answer to all of your needs.
Take the Next Step and Move to Orlando
When you decide to move, we can be with you every step of the way
After going through our detailed moving to Orlando, Florida guide, you surely know where you would like to live.
Let's face it, you shouldn't move to Orlando without having a place to call home, and PrimeStreet can help you find the perfect one. Our team of the best real estate agents in Orlando knows all the ins and outs of the market. That's why when you hire us, we'll ask you a few questions about your housing requirements, such as, what's your budget, favorite location, and preferred timeline. When we have that information, we'll be able to connect you with the agent that is best suited to help you find a hole in the local housing market.
Another thing PrimeStreet can assist you with is meeting the lender. After all, we've been in the business for so long, we know who are the best ones. All you have to do is give us a call or visit our website https://primestreet.io/buyers/find-an-agent
With the relocation process under the way, it is essential to be as organized as possible. After all, a long-distance move can be quite tedious and hectic, so plan in advance how and when you'll meet with a real estate agent.
Since we still live COVID-19 pandemic, meeting up face to face might be putting you at high risk. Luckily our team learned how to live and work while keeping a social distance. Our agents can meet you and show you properties virtually. When you hire us, our agents will send you listings, and many of them will include online 3D tours of properties, so you won't have to check all of them out in person. However, when you find the ones you like, we'll schedule an in-person visit so that you can scope out the property and neighborhood.
With the PrimeStreet team by your side, you'll become an Orlandoan in no time.