Are you thinking of moving or relocating to Central Florida? If so, you have come to the right place. Central Florida is an exciting place to live and offers a wide range of activities and amenities. From rolling country-sides to theme parks, there's something for everyone. In this blog post, we'll take a look at the 10 best places to live in Central Florida, so you can make an informed decision on where to settle down. Read on to find out more!
1) Orlando, FL (Downtown, Lake Nona, Baldwin Park)
If you're considering moving to Florida, Orlando is likely one of the first cities to come to mind. Known for its world-renowned theme parks, there's so much more to this city than just Disney and Universal.
Downtown
The downtown Orlando area is a vibrant cultural hub with an abundance of entertainment options, delicious dining options, and nightlife. It's also home to several professional sports teams, including the Orlando Magic and Orlando City Soccer Club.
Lake Nona & Baldwin Park
For those looking for a quieter suburban lifestyle, Lake Nona and Baldwin Park are both fantastic options. Both neighborhoods are master-planned communities that offer residents a plethora of amenities, access to lakes, and family-friendly community activities. Baldwin Park is a picturesque neighborhood that boasts easy access to downtown without feeling like you are living in downtown Orlando while Lake Nona is known for its state-of-the-art medical city, innovative research centers, and top-rated schools.
One of the biggest draws to Orlando is its impressive growth in business and companies moving their corporate headquarters to the area. Major companies like Darden Restaurants, Electronic Arts, AdventHealth, Booking.com, Disney, and AAA are all located here. This economic growth has helped the city maintain a healthy job market, and the city's overall growth rate is expected to continue climbing. In addition, the University of Central Florida - UCF is located in the heart of Central Florida. UCF has become a major force in higher education offering some of the best programs in technology and medicine. Lastly, it is home to one of the largest convention centers - The Orange County Convention Center.
In summary, whether you're looking for the hustle and bustle of downtown or the peace and quiet of a suburban lifestyle, Orlando has a neighborhood for you. The city's reputation for theme parks and attractions has put it on the map, but it's the beautiful master-planned communities like Baldwin Park and Lake Nona that make it a great place to call home. So, whether you're moving local or coming from out of state, consider Orlando when searching for your next place to live.
2) Clermont, FL
Clermont is one of the fastest-growing cities in Central Florida. With a growth rate of 207.43% from 2000 to 2010, it's no wonder why people are flocking to this area. What makes Clermont unique is its topography and atmosphere of rolling hills. Located in Lake County, it's surrounded by lakes, adding to its unique charm.
Clermont is also the home of The Olympus Project, a groundbreaking initiative that aims to transform the community through innovative health and wellness programs. With easy access to downtown Orlando, it's close enough to enjoy all the city has to offer but without the traffic and crowds.
The city of Clermont offers both country and suburban living. With a Costco coming soon, it's become even more convenient to live here. And if you're an outdoor enthusiast, you'll love the best biking trails in Florida, perfect for an afternoon of exercise or relaxation.
There are also new farmers' markets getting ready to open in downtown Clermont where you can purchase fresh, locally sourced produce. And with access to major roads and shopping centers, Clermont has everything you need.
Due to all of these fantastic features, people are relocating to Clermont from New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut. If you're looking for a new place to call home, be sure to consider Clermont, Florida. If you're looking for a more luxurious lifestyle, check out the exclusive Highland Ranch by Tyler Morrison. These luxury homes feature breathtaking views of Lake Apopka and the rolling hills of Clermont. The homes were built with the latest technology and energy-efficient materials to create a modern and eco-friendly living space.
Highland Ranch is a community that provides residents with access to world-class amenities like a private clubhouse, fitness center, pool, and tennis courts. And with a short drive to downtown Orlando, you can easily experience the excitement of the city whenever you want.
Another excellent feature of Clermont is its highly-rated public school system. The area has excellent schools that rank among the top in the state. And with multiple private schools, you have options when it comes to your child's education.
Overall, Clermont is an excellent place to live for families, young professionals, and retirees. Its mix of natural beauty, suburban living, and access to modern amenities make it one of the best places to live in Central Florida.
3) Windermere, FL
If you're looking for a luxurious lifestyle in Central Florida, look no further than Windermere. This upscale town is home to some of the nicest lakes in the area and boasts a variety of water sports, including boating, fishing, and water skiing. In addition, Windermere is known for its well-manicured landscapes and luxurious homes.
Speaking of luxury homes, Windermere has no shortage of them. Some of the most expensive homes in Central Florida can be found in this town, with prices ranging from several hundred thousand dollars to well over $10 million. If you're in the market for a waterfront home with all the bells and whistles, Windermere is worth checking out.
Windermere is also known for its safety, making it a great place to raise a family or retire. Many sports celebrities and famous people call Windermere home, and it's not hard to see why. The town's tranquil setting and access to some of the best lakes in Florida make it a great place to relax and enjoy life.
If you're considering relocating to Windermere, you'll be pleased to know that there are a variety of communities to choose from. Some of the top picks include Isleworth, Casabella, Keene's Pointe, Windermere Trails, and Windermere Sound. Each of these communities offers its own unique features and amenities, so it's important to do your research to find the one that best suits your needs.
In summary, if you're looking for a luxurious and peaceful lifestyle in Central Florida, Windermere is definitely worth considering. With its beautiful lakes, high-end homes, and variety of water sports, it's a great place to call home.
4) Winter Park / Maitland, FL
Winter Park and Maitland are two neighboring towns located just north of downtown Orlando. The area is often described as the heart of the city because of its easy access to everything in Central Florida. One of the main draws to this area is the fact that it's surrounded by lakes, which provide endless opportunities for waterfront living and activities like boating, fishing, and swimming.
Aside from the beautiful natural scenery, Winter Park and Maitland are home to lots of restaurants and shopping destinations. Foodies will enjoy dining at popular restaurants like The Ravenous Pig, Hillstone Restaurant, and 4Rivers BBQ. There are also plenty of boutique shops and art galleries for those who enjoy shopping.
The vibrant Downtown Winter Park is one of the nicest areas in Central Florida. It boasts a variety of activities such as live music, outdoor festivals, and cultural events throughout the year. The area is close to FullSail University, one of the top colleges in the country for media arts and technology.
Another unique attraction in Winter Park is the Enzian Theater, home to the Florida Film Festival. This one-of-a-kind movie theater provides an intimate setting for independent, foreign, and classic films. It's also a popular spot for film enthusiasts and offers an onsite restaurant and bar.
Overall, Winter Park and Maitland offer a charming and cultured environment with lots of amenities to enjoy. Whether you're a young professional or a retiree, this area is an excellent place to call home.
5) Montverde / Minneola, FL (Bella Collina)
The Montverde and areas of Florida have recently become a new frontier for those looking for a quiet, rural community to call home.
Situated close to the Florida Turnpike and other major roads, Montverde, Minneola, and Lake County in general are the fastest-growing areas in Central Florida. With beautiful elevated agricultural land, the area is known for its horse farms and large property sizes, providing residents with plenty of space to create their own luxury modern farmhouse.
For those seeking a high-quality education for their children, Montverde Academy is one of Florida's most prestigious private schools, located just a short drive away from Bella Collina.
Whether you're looking for new construction or an existing home, the Montverde and Minneola areas offer a unique blend of country charm and modern convenience. With easy access to nearby attractions and a close-knit community, these areas are definitely worth considering when looking for your next home.
With the new developments sprouting up in the area, including new construction by Beazer Homes at Park View at the Hills and Lennar at Reserve at Minneola, the Montverde and Minneola areas are quickly becoming the new frontier for those seeking a quiet rural community to call home.
6) Winter Garden / Oakland, FL
Located just a short drive from Orlando, Winter Garden and Oakland offer a quaint small-town feel while still providing easy access to big-city amenities. One of the highlights of this area is the downtown Winter Garden area, where the old world meets the new world in a charming way.
In addition, Oakland Park is a gorgeous lakefront master-planned community that offers a variety of home options, from townhouses to large estate homes. With easy access to nearby highways, Oakland Park residents can enjoy the best of both worlds - a peaceful lakeside community and the excitement of nearby attractions.
For those looking for a commuter-friendly location, Winter Garden and Oakland are both close enough to downtown Orlando for daily commutes, yet far enough away to avoid the hustle and bustle of city life.
Whether you are looking for a quiet lakeside retreat or a small town with plenty of charm, Winter Garden and Oakland offer plenty of options for those looking to relocate to Central Florida.
7) Kissimmee / Davenport, FL (Celebration, Reunion)
If you're looking for a family-friendly community with easy access to the Disney Theme Parks, look no further than Kissimmee and Davenport, Florida. Kissimmee is a fast-growing area that is home to some of the newest developments, such as Storey Lake and Tohoqua Reserve. Meanwhile, Celebration, Florida is a Disney master-planned community that was one of the first of its kind. Celebration is the perfect place to raise a family, with its excellent schools and community events.
One of the best-known developments in the area is Reunion Resort. This resort-style community is famous for its golf courses and luxurious vacation homes. If you're looking for a second home or a vacation property, Reunion, FL is definitely worth considering. With so many amenities and attractions, it's easy to see why Reunion is such a popular destination for visitors and residents alike.
Overall, Kissimmee and Davenport offer a wide range of options for anyone looking to relocate to Central Florida. From family-friendly neighborhoods to luxurious resort communities, there's something for everyone here. So why not start exploring today and see what these great towns have to offer? You might just find your dream home in Celebration, Reunion, or another amazing Central Florida community.
8) Horizon West, FL
If you're looking for a newer, master-planned community in Central Florida, Horizon West should be on your radar. Located in southwestern Orange County, this area offers plenty of amenities for families, including parks, playgrounds, and A-rated schools.
Horizon West has several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own personality. Summerlake and Independence, for example, feature resort-style pools and clubhouses, while Hamlin has a growing retail and entertainment district. You definitely want to check out Hamlin Town Center as well.
The area is also home to many young families and professionals, with easy access to major highways like the 429 and 535. And with Disney World and Universal Studios just a short drive away, there's no shortage of fun things to do on the weekends.
Overall, Horizon West offers a modern, family-friendly lifestyle that is hard to beat in Central Florida.
9) Altamonte Springs, FL
Located just north of Orlando, Altamonte Springs is a bustling suburban community with plenty of amenities for residents to enjoy. The area is home to numerous parks and recreational areas, as well as shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment options.
One of the standout features of Altamonte Springs is its location. With easy access to I-4 and other major roadways, residents can quickly reach other Central Florida destinations like downtown Orlando, Disney World, and Universal Studios.
Altamonte Springs also boasts a diverse selection of housing options, from traditional single-family homes to modern apartments and condos. Whether you're looking for a starter home or a spacious estate, you'll find plenty of options to choose from in this vibrant community.
If you're an outdoor enthusiast, you'll appreciate the area's many parks and green spaces. Cranes Roost Park, located in the heart of Altamonte Springs, features a beautiful lake, a jogging trail, and a performance amphitheater. Other nearby parks include Westmonte Park, Lake Lotus Park, and Sanlando Park, each offering their own unique amenities and activities.
For shopping and dining, residents have access to Altamonte Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in Central Florida. The mall features dozens of stores, a movie theater, and numerous restaurants and eateries. If you prefer local businesses, you'll find plenty of charming boutiques, cafes, and restaurants throughout the community.
Overall, Altamonte Springs is a wonderful choice for anyone looking for a vibrant, family-friendly community with plenty of amenities and access to nearby attractions.
10) Lake Mary / Longwood, FL
Lake Mary and Longwood are two neighboring towns located about 20 minutes north of downtown Orlando. They offer a more suburban feel while still providing easy access to big-city amenities.
Lake Mary is known for its top-rated schools, safe neighborhoods, and low crime rate. It has been ranked as one of the best places to live in the country by multiple publications. The downtown area of Lake Mary is quaint and charming, with small local shops, restaurants, and events throughout the year. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Lake Mary offers plenty of parks and trails, including the popular Wekiva Trail.
Longwood is another great option for families, offering a variety of housing options from historic homes to newer developments. One of the town's most unique features is the Reiter Park Splash Zone, which is a popular spot for kids during the hot summer months. Longwood also has a downtown area with local shops, restaurants, and a weekly farmers market.
Both towns are located near major highways, making it easy to commute to other areas in Central Florida. They are also within driving distance to popular attractions like Disney World and Universal Studios.
Overall, Lake Mary and Longwood offer a great balance of small-town charm and suburban convenience. They are great options for families who are looking for a safe, friendly community with top-rated schools and plenty of activities to keep everyone busy.