15 Best Areas to Live around Orlando, Florida

Because Orlando is experiencing record growth, it has increased demand for new home communities throughout Central Florida.

Once you learn more about each of Orlando’s suburbs, you will see that Orlando is so much more than a city full of theme parks!

Best Places to Live around Orlando

If you are considering moving to Orlando or relocating within the greater Orlando area, this guide will provide you with valuable insights into the best places to live around Orlando.

• Winter Garden
• Sanford
• Dr. Phillips
• Clermont
• Apopka
• Davenport
• Celebration
• Ocoee
• Winter Park
• Altamonte Springs
• Windermere
• Kissimmee
• Horizon West

Keep reading to discover some of the most sought-after neighborhoods and suburbs that offer a mix of urban amenities, suburban tranquility, and vibrant communities.

1. Winter Garden

Winter Garden is a historical city with a lot of charm and fun activities and one of the best suburbs of Orlando because it’s thriving.

The West Orange Trail is a popular hiking trail in the area. This 22-mile, mix-use trail is ideal for walking, jogging, biking, and skating. It also connects residents to downtown, so getting around without a car is a breeze.

In addition, Winter Garden boasts several neighborhood parks. Veterans Memorial Park contains basketball courts, a picnic area with grills, softball fields, multipurpose fields, tennis courts, a volleyball court, and a playground.

2. Sanford

Sanford is a growing city steps away from Lake Mary. Known for its natural beauty.

Any nature lover will enjoy the beauty of Lake Monroe and Lake Jesup, Historic Downtown brick-lined streets, small businesses, and close proximity to the beautiful beaches.

3. Dr. Phillips

Dr. Phillips is a residential community close to Windermere. A mix of beautiful estate homes, golf courses, shops, luxury spas, and fine dining “Restaurant Row” where you can find a mix of great restaurants, cigar bars, and live music.

The community is also known for its top-rated public schools and easy access to theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios. It’s a perfect blend of suburban living with city conveniences.

Other fun activities in the area include visiting ICON Park for attractions like the Orlando Eye, Madame Tussauds wax museum, and Sea Life Aquarium, or catching a show at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

Residents of Dr. Phillips also have access to several community parks and recreational areas, such as Bill Frederick Park with its fishing pier, boat rentals, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

4. Clermont

Clermont is one of the fastest-growing areas in Central Florida. It’s located 20 miles west of Orlando and north of Walt Disney World and has a mix of existing and new communities.

This Orlando suburb is known for its many outdoor recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and hiking.

The city is home to several lakes, including Lake Minneola, which is popular for fishing and water sports. Clermont is also home to the South Lake Trail, a 23-mile paved trail popular for walking, running, and biking.

Be sure to check out the Clermont Historic Village, which features a collection of restored buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries, including a schoolhouse, church, and blacksmith shop.

5. Apopka

Apopka is a city in Orange County, and it is located about 15 miles northwest of Orlando. The city’s name is Seminole for “Potato eating place”.

It is known for its many parks, including Wekiva Springs State Park, a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. The city also has a strong agricultural tradition, with many nurseries and greenhouses in the area.

Apopka is also home to the Apopka History Center, which tells the city’s history and surrounding area. Apopka is also known for its annual events, such as the Apopka Art and Foliage Festival, which is held each year in October.

6. Davenport

Davenport is a city located in Polk County, a suburban area located about 40 miles southwest of Orlando.

Davenport is known for its proximity to several theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, which makes it a popular destination for tourists and vacationers.

The city is also home to several golf courses and lakes, providing many opportunities for outdoor activities. You can experience something rather unique in Davenport, and that’s going on a hot air balloon ride. For more information, check out Bob’s Balloons!

Davenport is a community of residential and vacation homes that are also growing in record numbers. It’s a quiet alternative compared to Orlando and some of the other suburbs, yet it’s still close to Walt Disney and hospitals.

7. Celebration

You may have heard about Celebration because it’s a master-planned community founded by the Walt Disney Company. Built by world-renowned architects focused on Education, Technology, Community, and Health.

The walkable neighborhood features many restaurants and small parks. It’s also a short drive away from Walt Disney World!

You will find a mix of condos, townhomes, and single-family homes in Celebration. The beautiful architectural designs include colonial, coastal, and classical to name a few.

8. Ocoee

Ocoee is located about 15 miles west of the city. The city was founded in the late 19th century and has a long history of citrus production.

Today, Ocoee is a rapidly growing city with a population of around 40,000.

The city is known for its many parks, including Bill Frederick Park at Turkey Lake, which offers boating, fishing, and picnicking opportunities.

Ocoee is also home to the Ocoee Lakeshore Center, which hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year.

The city is also known for the Ocoee Whitewater Center, which hosted the whitewater slalom events for the 1996 Summer Olympics. The center is open to the public and provides kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding opportunities.

Additionally, Ocoee is home to several schools and colleges, including West Orange High School, Valencia College, and the University of Central Florida.

Ocoee is a community built around nature that includes several lakes and parks. It’s close to major highways and hospitals, so you can easily access the city of Orlando and the amusement parks.

9. Winter Park

Winter Park is a city in Orange County, and it is located north of Orlando and is known for its tree-lined streets, brick-paved sidewalks, and many parks and cultural institutions.

Several lakes in Winter Park are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts! The city is also home to Rollins College, a private liberal arts college known for its beautiful campus and academic excellence.

Winter Park is a popular shopping destination, with the famous Park Avenue lined with boutique shops and restaurants. The city also hosts several events throughout the year, such as the Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival, which draws in over 350,000 visitors each year.

If you’re a nature lover, Winter Park has plenty to offer. Visit the Mead Botanical Garden to explore over 47 acres of gardens, trails, and wildlife. You can also take a scenic boat tour through the Winter Park chain of lakes or rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore on your own.

The city is home to Rollins College, a liberal arts college, and the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, which houses the largest Louis Comfort Tiffany glass collection.

Winter Park also has a large number of shops and restaurants, as well as an active arts community. The city is a popular tourist destination and attracts many visitors, especially during winter.

10. Altamonte Springs

Altamonte Springs, nestled in the heart of Seminole County, is a vibrant, bustling suburb of Orlando known for its friendly community and easy-going lifestyle. This city is a gem for both residents and visitors, offering a mix of outdoor activities, shopping experiences, and entertainment options that cater to all ages and tastes.

At the center of it all is Cranes Roost Park, a picture-perfect park that features a beautiful lake, an amphitheater, and a plaza with a scenic fountain, making it the go-to spot for community events, festivals, and daily strolls or jogs.

The Altamonte Mall, with its wide array of stores, dining options, and a movie theater, serves as a focal point for shopping and leisure in the area.

Whether you’re drawn to the outdoors, looking for a family-friendly community, or simply in search of a place that combines the charm of small-town living with the conveniences of a metropolitan area, Altamonte Springs checks all the boxes.

Plus, its proximity to Orlando means you’re never too far from the world-class attractions and employment opportunities the larger city has to offer.

11. Windermere

Windermere is a Central Florida town known for its picturesque scenery, upscale neighborhoods, and high-end real estate.

The town is situated on a chain of lakes, which provides residents with beautiful views and opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. It’s no wonder that Windermere is often referred to as “The Town Among the Lakes.”

But beyond its natural beauty, Windermere also boasts a strong sense of community. The town regularly hosts events and festivals, such as the annual Windermere Food Truck Festival and the Christmas Boat Parade, bringing residents together to celebrate and connect.

With top-rated schools and a low crime rate, Windermere is a sought-after location for families looking to settle down. And for those seeking luxury living, the town offers prestigious golf courses and country clubs, as well as multimillion-dollar homes.

But even with its upscale reputation, Windermere maintains a welcoming and charming atmosphere. With locally-owned shops and restaurants, there’s a small-town feel that makes residents feel at home.

Whether you’re drawn to Windermere for its natural beauty, tight-knit community, or prestigious lifestyle, it’s a town that truly has something for everyone.

12. Kissimmee

Kissimmee was officially incorporated in 1883. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Kissimmee experienced significant growth as a center for the cattle and citrus industries. Today, the city is a popular tourist destination, with its close proximity to some of Florida’s most famous theme parks.

But Kissimmee offers much more than just theme park attractions. The historic downtown area, known as “Old Town,” is filled with charming shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Visitors can take a stroll down Main Street and enjoy classic car shows or catch a movie at the open-air theater.

For nature lovers, Kissimmee boasts several parks and recreational areas, including Shingle Creek Regional Park and Lake Tohopekaliga. These green spaces offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and birdwatching.

Kissimmee also values its diverse community, celebrating cultural events like the annual Puerto Rican Parade and Festival. The city’s rich history and vibrant culture make it a dynamic place to live.

13. Horizon West

Horizon West is one of Florida’s fastest-growing communities, and for good reason! Nestled in the heart of Orange County, it blends modern living with the beauty of nature, offering the best of both worlds.

With its thoughtfully designed neighborhoods, Horizon West makes community and convenience a priority. You’ll find everything from top-rated schools to a myriad of shopping and dining options right at your fingertips.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the area’s numerous parks, lakes, and trails, perfect for a sunny Florida day of exploration or relaxation. The community also hosts regular events that bring neighbors together, from food truck nights to seasonal festivals, ensuring you always have something to look forward to.

Plus, with Walt Disney World just a stone’s throw away, fun and adventure are never far from home. Horizon West is not just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive, making it an attractive destination for families, young professionals, and anyone in between.

14. Lake Nona

Lake Nona, located in the southeastern part of Orlando, Florida, is a vibrant, rapidly developing community known for its innovative spirit, high quality of life, and strategic location.

It’s a master-planned community that integrates residential, commercial, and recreational spaces seamlessly, making it a convenient and attractive place to live.

One of the key features of Lake Nona is Medical City, a health and life sciences park that includes the University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Nemours Children’s Hospital, the University of Florida Research and Academic Center, and the VA Medical Center. This concentration of medical and research facilities attracts healthcare professionals and offers residents top-notch medical care.

15. Baldwin Park

Baldwin Park was developed on the site of the former Orlando Naval Training Center, which closed in 1999. The community was meticulously planned to create a mixed-use urban village that integrates residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Baldwin Park features a walkable, pedestrian-friendly design with tree-lined streets, wide sidewalks, and numerous parks and green spaces. This makes it a great location for outdoor and exercise enthusiasts!

Lake Baldwin and Lake Susannah provide picturesque settings for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, biking, and picnicking. The 2.5-mile trail around Lake Baldwin is particularly popular among residents.

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Moving to Central Florida?

We hope you found this list of the best areas to live around Orlando, Florida useful. Which one of these Orlando neighborhoods is catching your eye? Let me know in the comments below!

While you’re here, want to get to know Orlando more? I’m a lifelong local and will tell you about the fun things to do in Orlando. Orlando has it all: theme parks, Disney Springs, gardens, museums, coffee shops, and brunch with bottomless mimosas.