Orlando : Florida
Living a Golf Lifestyle in Orlando, Florida
With an absolute plethora of private and public universities, Orlando is a sprawling college city. last 36 years, Orlando 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 a booming city and immensely popular vacation destination. 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.
Schools of law, business, and technology speckle the university scene amongst the private and public institutions, creating a city that is vastly influenced by various spectrums of academia.
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. See this link to Orlando Active Communities.
What Is Special about Orlando
University of Central Florida, Disney World, Epcot, MGM Studios, and untold other tourist destinations make Orlando special. It also boasts a vibrant economy that goes beyond tourism, and is home to some historic districts, and Little Saigon. The town is very diverse and international. Orlando experiences great winter climate, and offers many cultural venues.
What Is Not Special about Orlando
High crime rates in the city, an urban experience that is crowded with tourists, and severe weather storms can happen.
Climate and Physical Environment
Orlando is located near the center of the state, and like much of Florida, the terrain is flat and low. Summers are quite hot and humid, winters are mild.
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
Orlando has 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 a popular film festival and many theatre companies and movie theaters. 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 - but the crime rate has been falling the last several years.
Medical Facilities
There are a few 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.
Your Stories about Orlando, Florida
Discuss this review of Orlando in the Forum
If you have suggestions on how Topretirements.com could improve these reviews, contact us.
Suggest a community that you think is a great place for this lifestyle.
Tell us Your Story about this lifestyle or city. Add a Video about it.