Welcome to Orlando, also known as “The City Beautiful.” Famous for its world-renowned theme parks, sunny weather, and vibrant entertainment scene, Orlando offers a unique mix of vacation vibes and residential charm. Whether you’re moving here for work, school, or to start a new adventure, this guide has everything you need to live your best life in Orlando.
In this post:
- Why live in Orlando?
- Cost of living
- Getting around the city
- Job market and major industries
- Universities and student housing options
- Best neighborhoods to live in
- Must-visit spots
- Local events and festivals
- Final tips for enjoying Orlando
Why live in Orlando?
Orlando’s sunny weather, scenic lakes, and endless entertainment options make it an appealing place to live. Known for its theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios, the city attracts visitors from around the world and has a vibrant hospitality and tourism culture. Orlando is also home to a wide range of neighborhoods, each with its own personality, from the historic charm of Winter Park to the urban feel of Downtown Orlando.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Orlando has beautiful parks, gardens, and easy access to natural springs for kayaking, hiking, and swimming. The city’s active lifestyle, year-round events, and mix of family-friendly and trendy hotspots make it a great choice for families, young professionals, and students alike. For those looking for flexible, affordable housing, PadSplit offers shared housing options throughout Orlando, with weekly payments, utilities included, and no long-term commitments, making it easy to live comfortably in this sunny city.
Cost of living in Orlando
Orlando’s cost of living is higher than the national average, particularly due to its popularity as a travel destination. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages between $1,500 and $1,800 per month, but PadSplit offers more affordable options with flexible weekly rates and utilities included.
Grocery expenses in Orlando typically cost around $350 to $400 per month for one person, with a wide variety of grocery stores and international markets around the city. Dining out is affordable in casual areas, with meals generally ranging from $12–$30. Orlando’s food scene is diverse, featuring everything from Latin American and Caribbean flavors to upscale dining options near Winter Park and Dr. Phillips.
Monthly utility costs, including electricity, water, and air conditioning, average around $160. Orlando’s tropical climate means air conditioning is essential for most of the year. Healthcare costs are around the national average, with high-quality facilities like AdventHealth and Orlando Health providing comprehensive care.
Overall, Orlando’s cost of living reflects its amenities and attractions, but residents find the sunny weather and active lifestyle to be worth the cost.
Getting around Orlando
Orlando has several transportation options, although many residents do rely on cars. Lynx operates the city’s bus service, while the SunRail commuter rail connects Downtown Orlando with surrounding areas. A monthly pass for Lynx costs around $50, making it an affordable commuting option.
Orlando is served by major roads, including I-4, the Beachline Expressway, and Florida’s Turnpike, which provide convenient access across the city and to nearby areas. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest airports in the U.S., connecting residents to both domestic and international destinations.
For those who prefer a more active lifestyle, neighborhoods like Downtown Orlando, Winter Park, and Lake Eola Heights are walkable and bike-friendly. Lake Eola Park offers scenic walking paths, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available for easy travel around the city’s tourist-heavy areas.
Job market and major industries
Orlando has a strong job market with career opportunities in tourism, healthcare, technology, and education. Tourism is Orlando’s largest industry, creating jobs in hospitality, entertainment, and customer service. Major employers include Disney, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, which hire thousands of people across a variety of roles.
The healthcare sector is another significant industry, with major employers like AdventHealth, Orlando Health, and Nemours Children’s Hospital offering positions in patient care, research, and administration. Orlando’s tech sector is also growing, with companies like Lockheed Martin and Electronic Arts providing jobs in engineering, software development, and technology management.
Orlando’s education sector is also strong, with large institutions like the University of Central Florida offering jobs in academics and administration. With its mix of industries and job growth, Orlando attracts professionals from around the country.
Universities in Orlando and housing options
Orlando is home to several reputable universities that attract students from all over. Here’s a look at major institutions and nearby housing options:
1. University of Central Florida (UCF)
- Location: East Orlando
- Housing: UCF offers on-campus housing, but many students live in nearby East Orlando neighborhoods. Waterford Lakes and Oviedo are popular choices with a mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. PadSplit offers affordable housing options nearby, ideal for students and young professionals seeking flexibility and convenience.
- Explore more: UCF housing
2. Valencia College
- Location: Multiple campuses
- Housing: Valencia has campuses throughout the city, with students living in a variety of areas depending on their location. MetroWest is popular for students attending the West Campus, while Downtown Orlando and Winter Park are also convenient. PadSplit provides affordable housing near several Valencia campuses, perfect for students looking for budget-friendly options.
- Explore more: Valencia College housing
3. Rollins College
- Location: Winter Park
- Housing: Rollins students enjoy the beautiful, walkable area of Winter Park, known for its scenic lakes, cafes, and boutiques. Many students choose to live off-campus in Winter Park or nearby Baldwin Park. PadSplit offers flexible housing options in and around Winter Park, ideal for students wanting a balance of independence and affordability.
- Explore more: Rollins College housing
Best neighborhoods to live in Orlando
Downtown Orlando
Downtown Orlando is a lively urban area with high-rise apartments, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The area attracts young professionals who enjoy city living, with easy access to dining, nightlife, and Lake Eola Park. Downtown is generally safe and walkable, with PadSplit offering affordable housing nearby for those who want to enjoy city life without high living costs.
Winter Park
Winter Park is known for its historic charm, tree-lined streets, and family-friendly atmosphere. Popular with families and professionals, this area offers parks, lakes, and a thriving cultural scene. Winter Park is generally safe, and PadSplit provides flexible housing options nearby, making it accessible for those who want a scenic, suburban lifestyle.
Lake Eola Heights
Lake Eola Heights is a charming neighborhood near Downtown, with historic homes and easy access to Lake Eola Park. Known for its character and walkability, this area is popular with young professionals and those looking for a quieter setting close to the city. PadSplit offers budget-friendly housing options near Lake Eola Heights, perfect for residents who appreciate a scenic and historic neighborhood.
College Park
College Park is a well-established neighborhood with tree-lined streets, local shops, and a tight-knit community. Known for its family-friendly vibe and strong sense of community, College Park is popular with both families and young professionals. It’s generally safe, and PadSplit provides affordable housing options near College Park, ideal for those seeking a residential atmosphere close to downtown.
Dr. Phillips
Dr. Phillips is a suburban neighborhood known for its family-friendly amenities, good schools, and proximity to theme parks. This area is popular with families who appreciate the safe, residential environment and easy access to attractions like Disney and Universal. PadSplit offers flexible housing options nearby, making Dr. Phillips accessible for those who want a quiet, suburban lifestyle.
Exploring Orlando: must-visit spots
Orlando is full of must-see destinations, from theme parks to scenic parks and cultural attractions. Start with Walt Disney World Resort, where you can explore four iconic theme parks, resorts, and endless entertainment. Universal Studios Florida is another popular destination, offering movie-themed rides and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando is a favorite spot for locals, with swan boats, a walking path around the lake, and views of the city skyline. ICON Park on International Drive offers attractions like The Wheel, a 400-foot observation wheel with panoramic views of the city.
For nature lovers, Leu Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden with diverse plant collections and a butterfly garden, while Wekiwa Springs State Park offers kayaking, swimming, and hiking in a natural spring setting.
Local events and festivals
Orlando’s events and festivals celebrate the city’s love for food, art, and music. Here are some of the top annual events:
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
Held each fall at Disney’s Epcot, this food festival showcases global cuisines, wine tastings, and live music. It’s a must-attend event for foodies and a great way to sample flavors from around the world.
Orlando Fringe Festival
The Orlando Fringe Festival is a popular event for theater lovers, featuring independent performances, comedy, and music. Held each May, it’s the longest-running Fringe festival in the United States.
Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Orlando
EDC Orlando is an annual electronic music festival held in November, featuring top DJs and immersive art installations. It’s one of the city’s most exciting music events and attracts electronic music fans from across the country.
Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival
This juried art festival takes place in March in Winter Park, showcasing local and national artists. It’s one of the most prestigious art festivals in the country and a great way to enjoy art, live music, and food.
Orlando Film Festival
Held in October, the Orlando Film Festival showcases independent films from around the world. Screenings are held downtown, providing a fun cultural experience for film enthusiasts.
Final tips for enjoying Orlando
Orlando’s warm weather and active lifestyle make it an easy place to call home. Try a wide variety of international cuisines, from Latin and Caribbean flavors to Asian-inspired dishes, and explore the many parks and lakes around the city. With frequent afternoon showers, especially in the summer, be prepared for quick changes in weather and carry an umbrella.
Embrace the city’s tourism vibe, as it brings a wide range of entertainment options year-round. Whether you’re relaxing at Lake Eola Park, enjoying a show at Disney, or kayaking in a natural spring, Orlando’s sunny energy is sure to make you feel at home.
For affordable, flexible housing options in Orlando, explore PadSplit and start your journey to stress-free living in The City Beautiful!
