Moving to Orlando, Florida
42% cheaper than Miami, family-friendly, and one of the highest inbound-to-outbound move ratios in the state. Orlando is where Florida families land.
$385K
Median Home
2.7M
Metro Population
42% cheaper
vs Miami
$0
Income Tax
Living in Orlando
Orlando is Florida's family city. At $385K median — 42% cheaper than Miami — it's the most popular destination for Floridians relocating from expensive coastal areas. The metro is booming with a 2.7M population and high inbound migration. Beyond Disney and Universal, Orlando has a growing tech sector (Lockheed Martin, Siemens, EA), a massive healthcare industry, and UCF (one of the largest universities in the US). Kissimmee, Clermont, and Winter Garden are rising stars for families. Lake Nona is the planned community everyone's watching. Insurance costs are lower than coastal areas since Orlando is inland, though still above the national average.
Top Neighborhoods
| Neighborhood | Vibe | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Nona | Master-planned innovation district | $450K-$700K | Families, medical pros |
| Winter Garden | Charming downtown, west side | $380K-$550K | Families, walkability |
| Kissimmee | Affordable, diverse, growing | $300K-$420K | Value-seeking families |
| Clermont | Hills, lakes, outdoor lifestyle | $350K-$500K | Nature families |
| Winter Park | Upscale, established, Rollins | $500K-$900K | Professionals, luxury |
| Sanford | Historic, affordable, north suburb | $300K-$400K | Budget families, commuters |
Pros & Cons of Orlando
✅ Pros
- ✓ 42% cheaper than Miami
- ✓ Family-friendly (theme parks, activities)
- ✓ Inland = lower insurance than coastal FL
- ✓ Growing tech and healthcare jobs
- ✓ Zero income tax
- ✓ High quality of life
- ✓ UCF university pipeline
⚠️ Cons
- ✗ Tourist traffic year-round
- ✗ Summer humidity extreme
- ✗ Toll roads everywhere
- ✗ Limited beach access (1 hr to coast)
- ✗ Some areas have highway congestion
- ✗ Theme park area is overcrowded
Financing in Orlando
- Conforming loan limits cover most Orlando purchases
- FHA popular for first-time buyers — Kissimmee and Sanford have best value
- USDA-eligible areas in outer suburbs (St. Cloud, Poinciana)
- Builder incentives strong in Lake Nona and Clermont communities
- Lower insurance costs vs coastal FL — saves $1K-$3K/year