Mount Dora was the setting for the novel Alas, Babylon by author Pat Frank. The city was also the setting for the feature film Honky Tonk Freeway, starring Jessica Tandy and Beau Bridges. All the buildings located in downtown were painted pink for the movie.
Being in Florida, it's a given that Mount Dora will have plenty in the way of entertainment. From the waterfront dining and events at the Mount Dora Community Center to the annual festivals like the Mount Dora Arts Festival and the Fall Craft Fair, the city will always have you on your toes. According to the United States Census Bureau, the population was estimated to be just over 12,500 in 2011. So hurry up, move to Mount Dora and join the festivities!
Moving to Mount Dora
What You Should Expect
The cost of living in Mount Dora is just a little over that of the state average, and around the same as the national average. Try avoiding the spring months as random showers and thunderstorms may put a damper on moving things into your new home.
When to Begin Your Search
How long do you need to find a rental home in this vicinity of Florida? Fact is, there's a healthy availability of rental homes here, which is of course good news for folks on the lookout. Give yourself three to four weeks to be on the safe side, and you'll no doubt find that you'll be sitting pretty soon enough!
What You Will Need
It's the same story for most places in the U.S. Arm yourself with a few references from your previous landlords for starters -- three should be plenty. Bring along proof of income and your current employment status to assure your future landlord of your ability to pay in a timely manner. It's also wise to line your pockets with cash, because you'll probably be asked to hand over the equivalent of a month's rent as a deposit.
Neighborhoods in Mount Dora
There's a wide choice of rentals available in Mount Dora. Nevertheless, don't be tempted to hang around when you do find a suitable place. Instead, hand over the necessary deposit and complete the essential paperwork, and you'll be all set and good to go!
Cobble Hill: With plenty to see and do and lots of excellent dining establishments in close proximity, Cobble Hill makes for a great place to start a search when thinking about renting an apartment in Mount Dora.
Country Club Of Mount Dora: Located within the rolling hills of the Lake County golfing community, and within a 50-minute drive of downtown Orlando, there's no doubt that a rental apt in this location will be a dream come true for many!
Dora Pines: Situated in a quiet part of Mount Dora, and offering a very low crime rate, good local amenities, and easy access to U.S. Highway 441, there's little doubt that Dora Pines is an exceptional find for those looking to rent a home.
Downtown Mount Dora: Plenty of shops (check out Malena and Magda's Boutique) and lots of things to do and see, plus a very generous number of eating establishments and easy access to the local highways make renting in downtown Mount Dora a super choice!
Lakes of Mount Dora: Situated around 40 minutes north of Orlando and with a host of local amenities within easy walking distance, Lakes of Mount Dora offers its residents beautiful views of the lakes.
Loch: Loch in Mount Dora attracts a number of local amenities, including six restaurants such as China Star within easy walking distance.
Pine Crest: Nestled right at the foot of Dogwood Mountain, and while being a uniquely private location, Pine Crest is still within easy walking distance of downtown Mount Dora.
Sunset Hills: A tranquil part of Mount Dora, Sunset Hills still offers easy access to downtown Mount Dora and also to Highway 46.
Sylvan Shores: Sylvan Shores offers luxury apartments and is located just minutes from the lovely downtown Mount Dora area. It's also an easy commute to Orlando.
Life in Mount Dora
Getting Around
County Road 46 runs east-west through Florida. The nearest train station to the city of Mount Dora is on Persimmon Avenue at Sanford. The closest airport is Orlando Sanford International Airport in Orlando, 23 miles from central Mount Dora.
Keeping Busy
For folks who like speed -- as in the vehicular type -- the Mount Dora Museum of Speed affords its visitors the opportunity to take a trip through time and witness a variety of cars.
Lake Dora doesn't merely offer fantastic views over the lake -- you can take a boat trip as well!
Trimble Park has something for everyone -- trail walks, boating, a beach, and picnicking areas aplenty.