Cresswind DeLand
DeLand, Florida
Orlando, Florida
What It Is Like to Retire in Orlando
Orlando, Florida in the last 36 years went from being a regional town to one of Florida's largest cities. Now with a population of 231,000 (and 2 million in the Metro), it is not only a booming city and immensely popular vacation destination, but also a mecca for retirement communities. Walt Disney got it all started when his company purchased vast tracts of land in this former farming area and announced plans to construct Disney World in 1965. Epcot followed and now Orlando is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The area is also home to countless Central Florida retirement communities. Check out our Topretirements Mini-Retirement Guide to Florida.
Where to Retire in Orlando and Home Prices
The suburbs and area around Orlando are home to many communities, since Orlando is somewhat urban. There are historic neighborhoods such as Lake Cherokee and Lake Eola Heights (see photo above). Celebration FL is a Disney built community in the "new urbanism" style. Homes and condos are available at every end of the spectrum, from manufactured home communities to exclusive enclaves that are home to some of America's wealthiest celebrities. The median selling price in the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford area was $422,700 in the 4th quarter of 2022, according to the National Association of Realtors.
What Is Special about Orlando
University of Central Florida; the 2nd biggest in the state. Disney World, Epcot, MGM Studios ,and untold other tourist destinations. A vibrant economy that goes beyond tourism. Some historic districts. Great winter climate. Many cultural venues. Little Saigon section of town. Very diverse and international
What Is Not Special about Orlando
High crime rates in the city. An urban experience that is crowded with tourists. Severe rain storms can happen.
Who Will Like Retirement in Orlando
Folks looking for warm weather and a big choice of communities may enjoy retiring here (grandchildren would love it)!
Local Economy Is Driven by
Tourism, manufacturing, trade shows
Climate and Physical Environment
Located near the center of the state. The terrain is flat and low. Summers are quite hot and humid, winters are mild.
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
Orlando is home to a performing arts center, and the University of Central Florida provides many cultural events. Some of the many theatres in Orlando include the Orlando Shakespeare Theatre, Orlando Repertory Theatre (Central Florida's only Professional Theatre for Young Audiences), Orlando Theatre Project, Mad Cow Theatre, and Theatre Downtown. There is also a popular film festival Thanks to the tourist industry, there are countless restaurants and museums, not to mention Disney World, Epcot, and more.
Crime
Crime in Orlando is high - just over half the national average.
Medical facilities
There are 3 hospitals in Orlando, including Florida Hospital and Orlando Regional.
Transportation
Orlando International is one of the world's busiest airports with connections to just about anywhere. Amtrak has service to Orlando, along with some light rail service
Valuable Links
Orlando Wikipedia Orlando City-Data Orlando Chamber of Commerce Retire in Orlando
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