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. Photo of Universal Studios courtesy of Wikipedia and Matthew Cockerill.
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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 of a home in Orlando is way down vs. the giddy heights of 2006. The median selling price was $269,000 in the second quarter of 2018, 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 weather storms can happen
Who will like retirement in Orlando
Folks looking for warm weather and a big choice of communities
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 approved the construction of a major new performing arts center in 2007. 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 a popular film festival and many theatre companies and movie theatres. 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
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