Welcome to Orlando, where you can buy a home and a churro the size of your arm.
While most people know the city for its theme parks, locals know Orlando is much more than just roller coasters and fairy tale castles. Orlando is a rapidly growing metropolis with a diverse mix of neighborhoods, each offering something unique — whether you’re after a bubbling downtown scene, a quiet suburban retreat, or a lakeside escape.
Affordability is one of Orlando’s major draws. With a population topping 320,000 and climbing, it has become a prime spot for homeowners and renters alike. The median home price sits around $377,005, while a one-bedroom apartment averages about $1,895 per month. In other words, compared to other parts of Florida and the United States, you don’t need Disney’s budget to live here (but hey, it wouldn’t hurt!)
And if you’re looking for a quick break from the city? Some of Florida’s best beaches are just a short drive away. Cocoa Beach (about an hour east) is perfect for a morning surf session, while St. Pete and Clearwater (less than two hours west) offer white-sand beaches and stunning Gulf Coast sunsets.
The City Beautiful may be the theme park capital of the world, but for those who call it home or want to move to Orlando, the real magic is in its neighborhoods.
How We Chose the Best Neighborhoods in Orlando
Picking the best neighborhoods in Orlando isn’t as simple as ranking them by the number of palm trees per square mile. If you’re planning to pack up and move, you’ll need to do your research.
To make this list, we looked at the factors that actually matter when choosing a place to live — safety, schools, amenities, and overall vibe. Whether you’re looking for the safest neighborhoods in Orlando, the best neighborhoods in Orlando for families, or a lively area with great nightlife, we’ve done the research to help you find the right fit.
Top 8 Best Neighborhoods in Orlando
It’s not easy to narrow down the best neighborhoods in Orlando, but we’ve done our best. Read on for our 8 favorites and the different needs they suit.
1. Audubon Park: Best for families
Median home sale price: $474,117
Average rent: $2,059
Big picture: Mid-century neighborhood with tree-lined streets and a strong sense of community
Audubon Park is where charm meets convenience. Here, you’ll find a picturesque collision of mid-century homes and tree-canopied streets, a family-friendly atmosphere, and plenty to do. Plus, the schools are pretty strong as well.
But what really sets Audubon Park apart is the walkability. Grabbing a coffee with friends or picking up fresh produce means just a short jaunt down the street. The neighborhood’s small-town feel is reinforced by community events and a lively local social scene.
Top things to do in Audubon Park
Explore the Audubon Park Garden District. Grab a bite at one of the independent eateries or browse the boutique shops that define this creative hub.
Visit the weekly farmers market. Fresh produce, handmade goods, and live music bring the community together every Monday night.
Wander through Leu Gardens. A short walk from Audobon Park, this 50-acre botanical oasis offers a peaceful escape from city life.
2. South Eola: Best for young professionals
Median home sale price: $337,500
Average rent: $1,579
Big picture: Walkable downtown living with high-rise condos and easy access to nightlife
If you’re thinking about making a cross-country move to be in the middle of everything, South Eola is where you want to be. This compact, highly walkable neighborhood sits just south of Lake Eola Park, putting some of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and coffee shops within arm’s reach. High-rise condos dominate the skyline, offering city views and modern amenities that cater to young professionals who want to work hard and play harder.
Living in South Eola means you can leave the car behind. Whether you're grabbing brunch, heading to a rooftop happy hour, or catching a weekend market at Lake Eola Park, everything is a short stroll away.
Top things to do in South Eola
Walk or jog around Lake Eola Park. The city’s most iconic green space is right at your doorstep.
Brunch and cocktails on Central Boulevard. Spots like The Stubborn Mule and Eola Wine Company make weekend plans easy.
Explore Thornton Park. Just a few blocks away, this historic district adds a touch of charm to the downtown lifestyle.
3. Thornton Park: Best for nightlife and dining
Median home sale price: $534,506
Average rent: $1,589
Big picture: Trendy restaurants, craft cocktails, and a lively social scene in a historic setting
Thornton Park is where Orlando’s charm meets its nightlife. Cobblestone streets, historic bungalows, and tree-lined sidewalks give the neighborhood a relaxed, upscale feel, while its restaurants and bars keep the energy high. The mix of wine bars, gastropubs, and chef-driven eateries makes this one of the best places in the city for dining and after-dark entertainment.
Living here also means you’re steps away from Lake Eola Park, where weekend farmers' markets and outdoor yoga sessions balance out the late-night scene. You’re sure to find your niche — whether you're grabbing a craft cocktail, enjoying a patio brunch, or taking a casual stroll past colorful bungalows.
Top things to do in Thornton Park
Sip cocktails at The Falcon or Aku Aku. Tiki drinks? Craft beer? There’s a bar for every vibe.
Dine at local favorites like Soco. Known for their creative menus and cozy patios.
Stroll through the Thornton Park District. Enjoy boutique shopping, art galleries, and a vibrant weekend atmosphere.
4. College Park: Best for charming community feel
Median home sale price: $512,966
Average rent: $2,244
Big picture: A tight-knit neighborhood with historic charm and a thriving local scene
College Park feels like a small town tucked inside a big city. With its brick-paved streets, vintage bungalows, and walkable main street, this neighborhood has an undeniable charm. Locally owned cafes, boutiques, and restaurants line Edgewater Drive, making it easy to run errands or meet friends without leaving the neighborhood.
While it’s just minutes from downtown Orlando, College Park moves at a slower pace. Residents enjoy access to parks, lakes, and golf courses, plus a steady lineup of community events like the College Park Jazz Fest. Grab a coffee at a local shop, bike along quiet residential streets, or catch up with neighbors at an outdoor market.
Top things to do in College Park
Stroll down Edgewater Drive. Grab a coffee, browse boutiques, and enjoy the neighborhood’s friendly energy.
Spend an afternoon at Dubsdread Golf Course. Play one of Orlando’s oldest courses, featuring a historic clubhouse and a laid-back atmosphere.
Explore Loch Haven Park, home to museums, theaters, and cultural events, all just a short drive away.
5. Baldwin Park: Best for outdoor activities and walkability
Median home sale price: $719,391
Average rent: $2,244
Big picture: Master-planned community with lakes, trails, and a pedestrian-friendly design
Baldwin Park was built with walkability in mind. Wide sidewalks, scenic trails, and plenty of green space make it easy to get outside and stay active. The neighborhood surrounds Lake Baldwin, where residents can jog, bike, or kayak just steps from their front doors.
Unlike many newer developments, Baldwin Park doesn’t feel cookie-cutter. It blends charming architecture, tree-lined streets, and a town center filled with shops, restaurants, and community events.
Top things to do in Baldwin Park
Walk or bike the Lake Baldwin Trail, a scenic 2.5-mile loop with lake views and shaded paths.
Explore Baldwin Park Village Center. Grab a bite, shop local boutiques, or catch a community event.
Visit Blue Jacket Park, a sprawling green space perfect for picnics, sports, and outdoor workouts.
6. Winter Park: Best for culture and upscale living
Median home sale price: $453,758
Average rent: $1,672
Big picture: A historic, upscale neighborhood with world-class museums, lakes, and boutique shopping
Winter Park is where history meets sophistication. Originally developed as a winter retreat for wealthy Northerners, the neighborhood has maintained its tree-lined charm, brick streets, and old-world architecture. Today, it’s known for its cultural attractions, high-end shopping, and lakeside beauty.
At the heart of Winter Park is Park Avenue, a stretch of fine dining, art galleries, and designer boutiques. The area is also home to Rollins College, giving it an intellectual, artsy feel. Winter Park is ideal for those who appreciate a refined, walkable neighborhood with plenty to do.
Top things to do in Winter Park
Stroll down Park Avenue. Shop at upscale boutiques and enjoy patio dining at top-rated restaurants.
Tour the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany glasswork.
Take a scenic boat tour. Explore Winter Park’s lakes and historic waterfront mansions from the water.
7. Downtown Orlando: Best for urban living
Median home sale price: $310,000
Average rent: $2,034
Big picture: High-rise living with unbeatable access to dining, entertainment, and culture
Downtown Orlando is the city’s heartbeat. Skyscrapers, rooftop bars, and cultural hotspots create an energy you won’t find anywhere else in Central Florida. Whether you’re catching a Magic game at the Amway Center, seeing a show at the Dr. Phillips Center, or grabbing drinks along Church Street, everything is within walking distance.
Living here means embracing an urban lifestyle. High-rise condos, modern apartments, and converted lofts dominate the housing scene, offering skyline views and easy commutes. If you want to be where everything happens, Downtown Orlando puts you at the center of it all.
Top things to do in Downtown Orlando
Explore Lake Eola Park. Walk the scenic loop, rent a swan boat, or enjoy the Sunday farmer's market.
Catch a game or concert at the Amway Center, home to the Orlando Magic and top touring acts.
Experience the nightlife on Church Street. Rooftop lounges, craft cocktail bars, and live music venues keep the energy high.
8. Doctor Phillips: Best for luxury and dining
Median home sale price: $537,759
Average rent: $2,020
Big picture: Upscale living with access to Orlando’s best restaurants and golf courses
Doctor Phillips is luxury without the pretense. Gated communities, waterfront estates, and modern condos offer a quiet escape just minutes from Orlando’s biggest attractions. Nice schools, pristine golf courses, and a restaurant scene that rivals the best in the city make Doctor Phillips a prime spot for professionals and families alike.
At the heart of the neighborhood is Restaurant Row, a stretch of Sand Lake Road packed with some of the city’s best steakhouses, sushi bars, and international cuisine. Doctor Phillips delivers a refined yet relaxed lifestyle.
Top things to do in Doctor Phillips
Dine on Restaurant Row. Enjoy everything from fine dining at Christner’s Prime Steak & Lobster to casual bites at local favorites.
Play golf at Bay Hill Club and& Lodge. Home to the legendary Arnold Palmer Invitational, this private course is one of Orlando’s best.
Explore the Butler Chain of Lakes. Get your boating, fishing, and waterfront views in.
Choosing the Right Orlando Neighborhood
Orlando has a neighborhood for everyone — whether you want to wake up to lake views, walk to your favorite brunch spot, or live close enough to hear the cheers from an Orlando Magic game. Looking for historic charm? College Park has it. Want a social scene that doesn’t quit? Thornton Park delivers. Prefer a backyard big enough for weekend barbecues? Audubon Park might be the one.
Finding the right neighborhood is the first step. Getting there is the next. Colonial Van Lines makes long-distance moves seamless. With over 50 years of experience, our team knows how to pack, load, and transport your belongings with care.
Get a free quote and start your move today.