Did you know that when you move to Orlando, Mickey Mouse greets you at your front door?
We kid, but Orlando has a way of making you feel like you’re living in the middle of the magic (and we’re not talking about the basketball team).
With over 1,200 people moving to Florida daily, many of them moving from long distances, a sizable chunk of them are choosing to make their new home in this vibrant city. But why Orlando? Beyond world-class theme parks like Disney and Universal, the city offers warm weather, a solid job market, and an exciting mix of cultures. For the right person, Orlando has plenty to offer.
This article breaks down the pros and cons of living in Orlando to help you decide if it’s the right place for you. We’ll cover Orlando's cost of living, its iconic theme parks, hidden lakeside spots, and the best places to live in Orlando. By the end, you’ll know if moving to Orlando is the right choice for your next adventure.
Living in Orlando: Quick Facts
- Population: 325,044
- Climate: Average high temperatures range from 70°F (21°C) in January to 92°F (33°C) in July
- Cost of Living: The overall cost of living in Orlando is approximately 1 percent lower than the national average. Grocery expenses are about 1 percent above the national average, while utility costs are 3 percent below.
- Average Home Value: $379,154
- Average Rent: $1,895
12 Pros and Cons of Living in Orlando
Living in Orlando has plenty of perks, but it’s not without its challenges. Before you pack up your stuff and head to The City Beautiful, let’s dig into what to expect if you’re moving to Orlando.
1. Pro: Orlando's cost of living is lower than you’d expect
In Orlando, cost of living is 1 percent lower than the national average, according to PayScale. Housing, groceries, and utilities are all comparable or slightly below what you’d find in other major U.S. cities. For example, someone earning $100,000 in Manhattan would need just $42,901 to maintain the same lifestyle in Orlando.
While housing prices have risen with Orlando's growing popularity, the city remains a budget-friendly option compared to Miami and other hotspots in Florida. You can live comfortably on a modest income here. A single person typically needs an annual salary of $50,000, while a family of four may require around $80,000, depending on lifestyle. This makes moving to Orlando a great choice for those looking for affordability and a warmer climate.
2. Pro: Orlando's climate offers year-round sunshine
Orlando is a paradise for sun lovers, boasting an average of 233 sunny days per year, well above the U.S. average of 205. Since most people lack Vitamin D, moving to Orlando might be a great decision for your health. Plus, winters are mild and inviting, with temperatures often hovering in the 70s. That means you can play outdoors all year round.
3. Pro: Orlando's housing market provides affordable opportunities
As of December 2024, the average home value is $379,154, reflecting a modest 2.2 percent increase over the past year.
This steady rise indicates a healthy market and provides opportunities for buyers without the sharp spikes seen in other cities — both in Florida (such as Ft. Lauderdale) and nationally. It doesn’t matter if you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, moving to Orlando means investing in a market with lots and lots of potential for long-term value.
4. Pro: Orlando’s rental market features options for all budgets
Orlando’s rental market offers something for everyone, with an average rent of $1,895 per month. That’s slightly above the national median, but still competitive for a city with Orlando’s amenities and climate.
In more affordable neighborhoods like Pine Hills and Azalea Park, rents can be as low as $1,499 for a one-bedroom apartment. On the higher end, upscale areas like Baldwin Park and Lake Nona offer luxury apartments with amenities like pools, fitness centers, and lake views at an average price of $2,069.
5. Pro: Orlando's job market offers opportunities
Orlando’s job market is diverse and growing — especially in the tourism, technology, healthcare, and education sectors. The city benefits from its status as a global tourist destination, with major employers like Disney and Universal fueling the leisure and hospitality industries. (Remember what we said about who greets you when you arrive in town?) According to U.S. News, the unemployment rate in Orlando is 5.7 percent, which is right around the national average.
The median annual salary in Orlando is $75,028, which is slightly below the national average. However, the city’s relatively affordable cost of living helps offset this.
6. Pro: The best places to live in Orlando offer something for everyone
Is it a good idea to move to Orlando, Florida? Well, it depends on your goals and desires. One thing is certain — you’ll find plenty of Vitamin D and a reasonable cost of living.
Baldwin Park
Baldwin Park, just northeast of downtown Orlando, feels like its own little world — a place where tree-lined streets, cozy cafes, and lakeside strolls make everyday life feel like a scene from a postcard. Built on the site of a former naval training center, this master-planned neighborhood is the definition of walkable.
As far as housing is concerned, it’s as varied as the locals. There are elegant single-family homes, sleek townhouses, and modern apartments. A Saturday might be spent grabbing a bite at a local eatery before riding your bike along Lake Baldwin to catch an outdoor concert at Harbor Park.
Audubon Park
Audubon Park is a lively neighborhood just northeast of downtown Orlando, celebrated for its artsy vibe and strong community spirit (it’s like a little dash of Brooklyn — but with better weather). Anchored by the Audubon Park Garden District, this area is a hub for local foodies and creatives. Look for treasures at the East End Market and beloved bakeries like Gideon’s. Its tree-lined avenues and mid-century homes add charm, while walkable streets and bike paths mean it’s pretty easy to get around.
Outdoor enthusiasts love the proximity to Harry P. Leu Gardens and Lake Druid Park, offering peaceful retreats and unique biking trails (including mountain biking!).
North Quarter
Situated at the northern edge of downtown Orlando, North Quarter offers a unique blend of urban convenience and neighborhood charm. This district features a mix of modern apartments, professional offices, and a variety of dining options — and, hey, they’re all within a walkable area. Its proximity to the Orlando Urban Trail and easy access to major roadways like I-4 make the area ideal for professionals seeking a nice community with an easy commute, whether that’s by car or bicycle.
As a bonus, the neighborhood's strategic location is a gateway to the Central Business District and the Ivanhoe Village Main Street District, so you can work and play pretty easily.
7. Pro: There’s more to do in Orlando than visit a theme park
Orlando’s theme parks — like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld — are world-famous for a reason. They offer dynamic rides, entertainment for the entire family, and immersive experiences that draw millions of visitors each year.
But while the mouse is in the house, living in Orlando means access to much more than theme parks. Residents can explore hidden gems like the Orlando Science Center, catch live performances at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, or stroll through the stunning Harry P. Leu Gardens. And don’t forget the city’s vibrant food scene, craft breweries, and local shopping destinations like the East End Market.
8. Pro: What Orlando lacks in beaches, it makes up for in lakes
While Orlando isn’t on the coast, its more than 100 lakes provide plenty of chances to cool off. Locals enjoy water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing on spots like Lake Eola, Lake Ivanhoe, and the Butler Chain of Lakes.
But, c’mon now, you’ll be living in Florida. The beach will call you, and Orlando residents are just a short drive away from some of the state’s best coastal spots. Cocoa Beach, known for its surfing and laid-back vibe, is only an hour away. Daytona Beach, famous for its wide sandy shores, is about 75 minutes from downtown. For a quieter retreat, New Smyrna Beach offers a charming small-town coastal experience, just over an hour's drive away.
9. Con: Orlando's summers are hot, humid, and stormy
Orlando’s summers are not for the faint of heart. Seriously. With daily highs often reaching the mid-90s and humidity levels making the air feel oppressive, the heat can be challenging for many. What’s more, frequent afternoon thunderstorms are common. They bring heavy rain and occasional lightning — but they rarely last long. And let’s not forget the active hurricane, which threatens the region with heavy flooding and damaging winds.
Simply put: If you don’t like to sweat, or get wet, Orlando might not be for you.
10. Con: Orlando's traffic can be brutal during peak seasons
Do you like sitting in your car? If you’re moving to Orlando and heavy traffic sounds like your own personal nightmare, you might want to reconsider your decision. Orlando’s status as a top tourist destination comes with a downside: congestion on the roads. Major routes like I-4 and areas around theme parks such as Disney and Universal often become gridlocked, particularly during holiday seasons and summer vacations.
Obviously, residents can ride bikes or plan routes to avoid the worst bottlenecks, but navigating Orlando’s traffic requires patience and flexibility. Lots of patience and flexibility.
11. Con: Orlando's crime rate is higher in certain areas
Is Orlando a safe place to live? The answer depends on where you’re looking. According to NeighborhoodScout, Orlando has a crime index of 3, meaning it’s safer than only 3 percent of U.S. cities.
That might sound intimidating — and it’s something real you should consider. But it’s also worth noting that crime tends to be concentrated in areas like Pine Hills and Mercy Drive. However, other neighborhoods, such as the aforementioned Baldwin Park, are much safer. When considering living in Orlando, do your research.
12. Con: Orlando's growing popularity and market conditions continue to drive rising prices
Since COVID-19, Orlando’s appeal as a sunny, affordable destination has led to a surge in demand for housing.
As Bungalower reports, when the market reached its most competitive point from March 2021 to May 2022, Orlando's supply of homes was less than one month — meaning the available homes in Orlando would sell out in less than a month at the current demand rate. In other words, there was a severe shortage of inventory. This drove up the median home price more than 33% from $285,000 to $379,950.
Since then, the inventory has steadily increased, but with inflation, high interest rates, and steady competition from out-of-state buyers, prices continue to rise.
The Takeaway: Is Orlando a Good Place to Live?
Orlando offers a mix of pros and cons. With its sunny climate, affordable housing, and diverse job market, living in Orlando appeals to many. But if you hate heat and you hate traffic, you may want to reconsider.
Making the Move to Orlando, Florida
If moving to Orlando sounds like your next big adventure, let Colonial Van Lines make the process seamless. With over 20 years of experience in long-distance moves, Colonial handles everything — from packing and transportation to unloading and unpacking — so you can focus on settling into your new home.
Ready to get started? Get your free quote today!