30 Things to Know Before Moving to Orlando, FL

Whether you’re a Disney regular or a Universal fan, or just really enjoy SeaWorld, Orlando will likely have the amusement park you love nestled in one of its corners. But do you want to graduate from tourist to resident? Here's what to know before moving to sunny Orlando.

30 Things to Know Before Moving to Orlando, FL

1. What It's Like Living in Orlando?

Orlando is home to 285,705 people and is the fourth largest city in Florida. Unsurprisingly, it’s the most visited city in the state, as well as one of the top vacation spots in the U.S. People from across the globe relocate to Orlando or come to visit this theme park mecca. This means you’ll hear a variety of languages spoken around Orlando's neighborhoods – it’s a small world, after all.

It’s true, Orlando is known for Disney World and Universal Studios, both of which attract over 60 million visitors each year. But you can also hit their beloved golf courses, enjoy vibrant nightlife, and endless shopping. You may not be beachside in Orlando, but there are 100 lakes to enjoy and you’re less than an hour away from the Space Coast.

Understandably, the city is a popular choice for hospitality professionals and entertainers looking for park and film production work. Beyond entertainment, you also have your pick of technology, aviation, aerospace, manufacturing, warehousing, and more. Orlando may be one of the more magical places on earth, but it still has everything other major cities offer, including a bustling economy.

Orlando wasn’t all fun and rides at the start, though. The city first rose to modern prominence in 1875 when it became the hub of Florida's citrus industry. After a catastrophic freeze in 1894, many gave up on their ruined crops and moved further south. The area later became a popular resort spot between the Spanish-American War and World War I, leading to a boom in the 70s when Walt Disney World opened its doors.

While Disney World may be the most recognizable park, though, it’s not Orlando’s first. That honor belongs to Gatorland, which opened in 1949 and featured a 15-foot gator, which was said to be the biggest in the world. With a long history of entertaining residents and tourists alike, it’s no wonder that the number of daily visitors alone in Orlando is equivalent to the population of Atlanta.

So will you be part of all the wonders Orlando has to offer? For sure. As a full-time resident, though, you’ll also experience a virtually unending tourist season as part of daily life.

2. What is the Cost of Living in Orlando?

Living in Orlando comes with urban amenities, year-round entertainment, pleasant weather, and a relatively affordable cost of living. According to Payscale, the cost of living in Orlando is 5% higher than the national average, with housing coming in at 11% higher than the national average.

Here's an idea of how much things cost when moving to Orlando, as reported by Payscale:

• Energy bill: $164.44
• Loaf of bread: $4.00
• Doctor's visit: $114.54
• $3.42 for a gallon of gas

Orlando offers reasonable rent prices, and has seen a modest decrease in the last year of about 2.7%. The average rent in Orlando recently dropped to $1,358 for a one-bedroom apartment and $1,688 for a two-bedroom apartment. You can also save money by looking for Orlando move-in specials.

To live comfortably in a one-bedroom apartment in Orlando, you should have an income of at least $58,920 per year or $28.33 per hour. For a two-bedroom apartment, you'll need to earn at least $70,040 per year or $33.67 per hour.

The median income in Orlando is currently $66,292 as reported by the Census Bureau in 2022. By comparison, the median income is $75,149 in the rest of the U.S.

Median income estimates are different from the recommended basic living wage in Orlando. Living above the poverty threshold in Orlando requires $15.44 per hour for a single individual working full-time. Fortunately, Orlando's wages are solid, but you'll need a bump if you want to make nightlife and theme parks a regular part of your day-to-day.

If you’re on a budget, you can find affordable apartments in Orlando for less than $900, and plenty of roommatesto split the bills.

3. Is There State Income Tax in Orlando?

Living in Orlando means saving some money on taxes. Like the rest of Florida, Orlando locals don't pay personal income tax or sales income tax. There is currently a 6% Florida sales tax rate, and property taxes are higher than the national average, though the latter won’t apply if you’re a renter.

4. Who's Moving to Orlando?

Orlando is a diverse city with a reasonable cost of living that attracts newcomers from some major metro areas. According to Apartment List's most recent migration report, the highest percentage of people moving to Orlando are from Miami, Tampa, and New York.

Get more info and tips about moving to Florida.

Many outbound moves are happening in the Orlando metro area. Renters who currently live in Orlando, but are considering moving elsewhere, are searching for apartments in Miami, Tampa, and Jacksonville.

Learn more about moving to a new state.

5. What's the Job Market and Economy in Orlando?

Orlando's job market has increased 30.6% in the last 10 years and has a healthy mix of jobs to choose from. Entertainment, dining, hospitality, tech, aerospace, and manufacturing, are just some of the industries you'll find easily.

Some of the world’s largest corporations have a significant presence in Orlando. The headquarters for Amazon, JetBlue, Oracle, Sea World, and Tupperware, reside in Orlando, among others. There's also a major entertainment influence with Hollywood Studios, Universal Studios, and Electronic Arts located nearby.

Central Florida Research Park is located in Orlando, too. The campus-like environment lies adjacent to the University of Central Florida and is home to more than 120 companies.

6. What is Orlando Weather Like?

Orlando's weather is a major draw if you can handle hot and humid summers. The overall climate is tropical, with dry, slightly chilly winters. You should take some hurricane precautions when living in Orlando, although they don't happen that often that far inland. You're more likely to get severe tropical weather from the aftermath of a hurricane.

7. How is Public Transportation in Orlando?

Orlando has a surprising amount of public transportation options for a driving town, mostly to accommodate its many park workers and tourists. The LYNX bus system has buses running along International drive with stops from SeaWorld to Disney. You can connect to different destinations through Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties.

The SunRail electric commuter train features a double-decker passenger car, tables, and power outlets. The line runs North to South, connecting to additional Amtrak stations.

Other options include BRT and the affordable LYMMO option. The free-fare mover takes you to major entertainment spots. Bus lines run through Downtown, as well as the rest of the city.

In addition to public transportation options, you can also find rideshares. Grab a bike from HOPR bike share or get around the city with Uber and Lyft.

8. What are the Best Orlando Neighborhoods?

Orlando may boast a reputation as a theme park haven, but its neighborhoods have more to offer than thrill rides. Here's where to live, from the lakefront to urban amenities.

College Park

College Park is situated just a few miles from Downtown and features everything from cottages to new apartment complexes. The 280-acre Lake Ivanhoe offers wakeboarding and waterskiing with skyline views. You'll find walking trails, parks, and the Mennello Museum of Art.

South Eola District

South Eola is among the best neighborhoods in Orlando for urban dwellers. You'll find highrises and upscale apartment buildings outfitted with pools and on-site fitness centers. Watch live performances at Disney's outdoor amphitheater, Opera Orlando.

Celebration

You may feel like you’re lost in Disney World when you're walking around the immaculate Celebration neighborhood of Orlando. The neighborhood is a subsidiary of Disney, designed and built the community, although it's no longer affiliated with the House of Mouse. You'll find upscale amenities and a natural habitat where deer still roam.

Want more ideas on where to live in Orlando? Read more about some of the best neighborhoods in Orlando.

9. How is the Orlando Food & Drink Scene?

Orlando's food scene goes far beyond park food (though we love that too). There are scores of places to find fresh seafood, with dishes like conch fritters, Apalachicola oysters, and stone crab claws. Oh, the stone crab.

Breweries and gastropubs are wildly popular around Orlando, too. Castle Church Brewing Company even operates as a church on Sundays. For Italian food with a chic warehouse vibe, Prato serves up wood-fired oven pizza in alfresco dining.

The sushi experience at Kadence is so popular, diners need to pre-pay to get a reservation. Domu makes handmade noodles in savory broths. For wine lovers, Orlando hosts an annual wine festival and keeps the scene going strong throughout the year.

10. Orlando Outdoors

Orlando summers get steamy, but you can still enjoy the great outdoors if you can take the heat and humidity. Go canoeing at Shingle Creek Regional Park or cool off with a swim at Wekiwa Springs Park. For more water sports, try kayaking or paddleboarding at the Indian River Lagoon. Beyond the lakes and waterfront, golfing or ice skating are popular pastimes around the city.

You can get out of the city limits and go camping at Westgate River Ranch. Stay in the lodge, a yurt, or a cabin at this authentic Florida dude ranch. You can even join the crowd at the rodeo.

11. What Kinds of Animals Live in Orlando?

It’s home to Gatorland for a reason. When you live in Orlando, alligators, giant mosquitoes, and manatees are your neighbors. Sure, you’ll see global transplants at Seaworld and Animal Kingdom, but the critters that thrive in marshy, tropical climates call Orlando their O.G. home. Make sure to bring bug spray and stay out of swampy areas.

12. How's Nightlife in Orlando?

Theme parks are great place for the kids and the kid in you, but Orlando’s nightlife scene is exciting for every adult, with a variety of places to eat, drink, dance, and listen to live music. The Universal CityWalk features more than 30 places to dine, a 19-screen theater with an IMAX screen, and a nightclub.

Over at International Drive, you'll find dozens of restaurants that are popular with tourists staying in nearby hotels. Try Cafe Tu Tu Tango, Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse, and the Nile Ethiopian Restaurant.

You can cool off with a drink at ICEBAR Orlando. It was named the largest permanent ice bar in the world with over 70 tons of hand-carved ice. The bar is built from ice and features an adjacent lounge to warm up with some dancing.

Orlando is home to side-splitting comedy clubs. Stop by the Orlando Improv for karaoke and comedy or the SAK Comedy Lab, which offers a 25-seat improv comedy theater and nightly shows.

Orlando never lacks live music and entertainment options. The House of Blues features a beautiful music hall located in Disney Springs, as well as many delicious Southern dishes. Dine on po'boys and jambalaya during a performance or join a Gospel Brunch for food and live music.

13. How is the Art Scene in Orlando?

Orlando's art scene has quietly grown into a flourishing showcase of local, regional, and national artists and performances. The Mennello Museum of American Art exhibits paintings, sculptures, and a permanent collection by Earl Cunningham. The nearby Cornell Fine Arts Museum is a teaching museum with rotating exhibitions and ongoing programs open to the public year-round.

The Orlando Museum of Art was founded in 1924 to inspire creativity and intellectual curiosity. They host "1st Thursdays" with a showcase of local artists, live music, and an open bar and cafe.

For live entertainment, the Orlando Repertory Theater delights young audiences with performances from both children and adults. Local kids can join camps and classes to ignite their inner creativity.

14. Is Orlando Big on Theme Parks?

Did we mention that Orlando has a lot of theme parks? Just in case we missed it, Disney World lives here, and is likely the most well-known attraction, with campuses including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios. From Mickey Mouse to Yoda, there’s no shortage of characters entertaining visitors throughout the various parks.

Universal Studios is home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, attracting nearly 11 million visitors each year. Legoland Florida is located in nearby Winter Haven. The interactive, 150-acre theme park features more than 50 rides, shows, and attractions.

SeaWorld Orlando is a theme park and marine zoological park. You can also visit its adjoining neighbor, Discovery Cove and Aquatica, for a mix of rides, roller coasters, and animal encounters.

15. What Kinds of Family Attractions are Like in Orlando?

Orlando has family-friendly attractions scattered throughout the city. Get hands-on with interactive exhibits at the Orlando Science Center. A La Carte hosts Movie Monday, perfect for a weekly family outing.

The Museum of Illusions Orlando is located in ICON Park. It has more exhibits and illusions than any other edutainment stop in Central Florida. You'll see illusions like the Tilted Room and the eerie Head on a Plate.

Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition features over 300 artifacts with full-scale recreations of the ship. Enjoy interacting with costumed actors and raise a toast at the gala dinner.

16. What Annual Events are in Orlando?

Orlando is a mecca for entertainment and hospitality. You'll find year-round events like the Florida Film Festival and ICE! frozen holiday event at Gaylord Palms. The annual Orlando Heritage Festival features an action-packed national music festival and awards ceremony with middle and high school performers.

Of course, Disney also has its share of annual events. The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival at Epcot that promises a "party for the senses," and if the rave reviews from thousands of social media creators are to be believed, Disney delivers on that promise. The multi-month festival features global cuisine, wine, and live entertainment. At Taste of Epcot, you’ll find exclusive bites, gardens, exhibits, and gorgeous topiary displays.

17. How are Sports in Orlando?

The city is home to quite a few sports teams. The Orlando Magic (NBA) plays at the Amway Center, a stadium that is also home to the Orlando Solar Bears hockey team. Soccer enthusiasts cheer for the Orlando City Soccer Club at the Exploria Stadium in Downtown Orlando.

18. What Universities are in Orlando?

Higher education is a major draw for students and academic professionals in Orlando. The University of Central Florida is the second-largest university in the entire U.S. This public research university focuses on Optics, Lasers, Modeling and Simulation, Engineering, and other fields, including video game design.

Rollins College is a private liberal arts college in nearby Winter Park, Florida, with programs like Business Administration, Management and Operations, Journalism, Communication, and more.

Stetson University is known for its Business Management, Law School, Marketing, and Social Sciences programs. It also boasts 18 NCAA Division I teams.

19. Why do Locals Call Orlando "The City Beautiful"?

Locals call Orlando "The City Beautiful" because of its scenic surroundings and lively atmosphere. The nickname was officially coined in 1931 and reflects the city's blend of natural beauty, particularly its many lakes, parks, and lush greenery.

Orlando is home to over 100 lakes, with some like Lake Eola located right in the heart of downtown.

Beyond its natural beauty, the nickname also reflects the welcoming, family-friendly, and culturally rich environment that Orlando has cultivated, especially with the influx of international tourists due to its world-famous theme parks.

20. How do Locals Deal with Humidity in Orlando?

Dealing with humidity in Orlando is all about adapting to the heat and making the most of the resources available. Here are some of the main ways locals cope with the sweltering humidity:

• Air Conditioning: Essential in homes, cars, and public spaces to escape the heat.
• Hydration: Locals drink plenty of water to stay cool and avoid dehydration!
• Outdoor Activities: Exercise is done early morning or late evening to avoid peak heat.
• Appropriate Clothing: Light, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics and sun protection like hats and sunscreen.
• Water Parks & Pools: Many locals frequent water parks, lakes, and pools to cool off.
• Indoor Activities: During the summer, local spend more time with indoor activities like malls and museums.
• Fans & Coolers: Portable fans and dehumidifiers help combat humidity indoors.

Of course, after many years of living there, most people tend to adapt to the heat and humidity.

21. What's the Deal with Orlando's Brick Streets?

Many of Orlando's brick streets date back to the late 1800s and early 1900s. These bricks were originally laid as part of the city’s infrastructure efforts to replace dirt roads with a more durable surface. Over the years, most of these streets were paved over with asphalt, but some areas, especially in historic neighborhoods like Thornton Park and parts of Downtown Orlando, have been restored to preserve their historical charm.

While the brick streets give certain parts of Orlando an old-world charm, they also provide practical benefits. The bricks allow rainwater to seep through, improving drainage and reducing the risk of puddles. This is especially helpful during Florida’s frequent rainstorms.

22. Do I Have to Worry About Hurricanes Living in Orlando?

Living in Orlando means you’re somewhat sheltered from the worst impacts of hurricanes, but it's still important to be prepared. Orlando is inland, about 50 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, which makes it less likely to experience the full force of a hurricane compared to coastal cities like Miami or Tampa. However, hurricanes can still affect Orlando when they weaken or turn inland. While the city may experience heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding, it typically doesn’t face the extreme winds that coastal areas do.

Orlando has been hit by several hurricanes in the past, such as Hurricane Charley in 2004 and Hurricane Irma in 2017. These storms brought significant rainfall, winds, and power outages, but overall, the city usually experiences less damage than areas along the coast. Locals should keep an eye out for flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas or around the lakes, during hurrican season (June to Novemeber).

23. Does Orlando Have a Prominent Puerto Rican Community?

Yes, Orlando has a large and growing Puerto Rican community. In fact, over the years, Puerto Ricans have become one of the largest Latino groups in the area.

The influx has been especially noticeable since the 1990s, with many families moving from Puerto Rico in search of better job opportunities, a lower cost of living, and a favorable climate. This migration intensified after events like Hurricane Maria in 2017, which caused widespread devastation on the island and pushed many Puerto Ricans to relocate to Florida.

Today, the Puerto Rican community is not just a demographic presence but a cultural force in the city. You'll find Puerto Rican restaurants, cultural events, and businesses throughout Orlando. Neighborhoods like Pine Hills and College Park have higher concentrations of Puerto Rican residents, and the city hosts many Puerto Rican celebrations, such as the Orlando Puerto Rican Day Parade and Fiesta in the Park.

24. Are there Secret Natural Springs Near Orlando?

There are actually several great natural springs near Orlando, few of which are lesser-known.

Rock Springs Run in Kelly Park, located about 30 minutes north in Apopka, offers crystal-clear waters perfect for tubing or swimming, with a quieter vibe, especially on weekdays, while DeLeon Springs, about 45 minutes north is known for its pristine waters and a historic mill where you can cook your own pancakes on an open grill.

If you want to go a little further out of town, about 90 minutes north, you'll find Silver Glen Springs, located in the Ocala National Forest. This spring feeds into Lake George with its stunning, clear waters, offering a serene spot that's less crowded than other springs.

25. Is I-4 in Orlando as Bad as People Say?

Yes, I-4 in Orlando often lives up to its reputation for being a bit of a nightmare. The highway, which runs through the heart of the city, connects popular areas like downtown Orlando, tourist attractions, and theme parks. However, it’s notorious for heavy traffic, frequent accidents, and frustrating congestion, particularly during rush hours.

Despite how frustrating it can be, it's still a necessary route for getting around Orlando, and local drivers have learned to navigate it with patience. Avoiding it during rush hours or planning for extra travel time can help make the experience a little more bearable.

26. How do Orlando Residents Feel About Living in a Tourist Destination?

Orlando residents have mixed feelings about living in a city that's a major tourist destination. Many people appreciate the economic benefits that come with tourism.

The city's hospitality, service, and retail industries thrive on the constant flow of visitors. However, the constant influx of tourists can also be overwhelming. Traffic is a common frustration, especially during peak seasons like summer and the holidays. This can even make simple errands a hassle.

Some locals feel disconnected from the tourist-driven culture, as it can sometimes feel like living in a giant theme park. With that said, there's so much more to offer than just Disney.As a melting pot, cultural diversity is everywhere.

Luckily, there are still many quiet, local spots that most tourists don’t even know about, so there's always room to breathe, even during the busy season.

27. What are the Best Local Coffee Shops in Orlando?

Orlando has a thriving coffee scene, with no shortage of great local shops. Here are a few we recommend checking out:

• Haan Coffee (Downtown Orlando): Known for its Korean-inspired drinks like the Seoul Iced Coffee, this shop offers a unique coffee experience. Their inventive seasonal drinks, like the Corn Latte, also make it a local favorite
• Barnie's Coffee (Winter Park): A local institution since the '80s, Barnie's serves up a Turkish Latte in a cozy outdoor courtyard, making it perfect for a relaxing coffee break.
• Piccolo Coffee (West Orlando): A favorite in Winter Garden, this husband-and-wife-owned coffee shop offers seasonal drinks like the Salted Maple Latte. They also have pop-ups at the Winter Garden Farmers Market, bringing quality coffee to the community.

28. Does Orlando Have a Growing Tech Scene?

Yes, Orlando is home to a growing tech scene, even though it’s often overshadowed by major tech cities like Silicon Valley or Austin.

One of Orlando's strongest points is its role in simulation technology. The city has long been a leader in simulation and training systems, with companies like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman setting up operations here.

The Institute for Simulation and Training at the University of Central Florida (UCF) is a major player in this field, and over the years, it has helped fuel the city's reputation as a global leader in simulation technology.

Orlando also has a growing startup culture, with several co-working spaces and innovation hubs. Lake Nona district has several health-tech startups, with companies working on everything from medical devices to digital health solutions, and organizations like Techstars Orlando working to connect entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals.

29. Does Orlando Have any Good Parks?

Yes, Orlando has several beautiful parks throughout the city!

Lake Eola Park is probably one of the most iconic spots in the city. The park features a large lake with paddleboats, a playground, and plenty of green space for picnics and relaxation.

If you love botanical gardens, Harry P. Leu Gardens has a peaceful retreat with over 50 acres of stunning landscapes. The gardens feature a wide variety of plants, flowers, and themed gardens, including a rose garden and a butterfly garden. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon stroll or photography!

30. What's One Fun Fact About Orlando?

Before it was Orlando, the area was known as "Jernigan," named after a prominent family that settled in the region. The name was changed to Orlando in 1857, likely named after a character from Shakespeare's play As You Like It.

Looking for an Apartment in Orlando

If you’re thinking about making the move to Orlando, you're in for an exciting journey! Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly neighborhood, a trendy downtown loft, or a quiet spot near the springs, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Find your perfect apartment in your favorite neighborhood with Apartment List.