Living in Dr. Phillips, Florida (2025 Guide)

Living in Dr. Phillips, Florida (2025 Guide): Real Estate, Restaurants & Lifestyle

April 25, 2025

Tucked just minutes from the world’s most visited theme parks, Dr. Phillips, Florida, offers one of Orlando’s most desirable living experiences—without the tourist crowds. While it may sound like the name of a hospital visit, locals know it as a thriving, upscale suburb, rich in history, lakefront living, and unmatched convenience.

If you’re thinking of moving to the Orlando metro area and want the perfect blend of resort-style amenities and peaceful suburban life, this guide will show you why Dr. Phillips needs to be on your radar.

Story Highlights:

Luxury Living Near the Magic
Dr. Phillips offers upscale homes just minutes from Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld—without the tourist crowds.
Where Elegance Meets Entertainment
From award-winning restaurants on Restaurant Row to private clubs and golf courses, this Orlando suburb has it all.
Timeless Charm, Modern Convenience
Mature oak-lined streets, custom-built homes, and top-rated schools make Dr. Phillips one of Central Florida’s most desirable communities.

A Hidden Gem Near the Magic

You may be wondering—why would anyone want to live near theme parks? But here’s the twist: Dr. Phillips offers all the access without the chaos.

10 minutes to SeaWorld
15 minutes to Universal Orlando Resort
20 minutes to Walt Disney World Resort

Despite being next to Orlando’s biggest attractions, this community remains remarkably quiet, private, and exclusive.

Where Is Dr. Phillips Located?

Dr. Phillips sits just 30 minutes southwest of downtown Orlando, nestled in zip codes 32819 and 32836. The area is flanked by:

North: Conroy Windermere Road
South: Darrell Carter Parkway
East: International Drive
West: Butler Chain of Lakes

Its strategic location puts you close to I-4, Sand Lake Road, and the 408, providing easy access to the airport, downtown Orlando, and all major hotspots.

The History Behind the Name

The community is named after Dr. Phillip Phillips, a physician-turned-citrus tycoon. In the early 1900s, he pioneered one of the country’s first live-work communities for his workers in the citrus groves around Sand Lake. His legacy of community, innovation, and philanthropy still shapes Dr. Phillips today.

Why People Are Moving to Dr. Phillips, FL

Lifestyle & Location Highlights:

Minutes from theme parks without being in the tourist zone
Luxury shopping & dining along famous Restaurant Row
A-rated public and private schools
Exclusive communities with mature landscaping and large lots
Access to two lake chains: Butler and Sand Lake
Golf-centric living including Bay Hill Club & Lodge

It’s no surprise that international buyers and relocating families prioritize Dr. Phillips when exploring Orlando-area homes.

Real Estate in Dr. Phillips: What to Expect

Most homes in Dr. Phillips were built between the 1970s and 1990s, offering a mix of charming custom builds, luxury estates, and mid-range single-family homes.

Real Estate Snapshot:

Entry-level homes: Rare, usually condos or small townhomes under $575,000
Move-up homes: $575,000 – $1.1 million
Luxury homes: $1.2 million – $15 million+
Common lot sizes: ⅓ to ½ acre
Common features: Ceramic tile roofs, conservation views, mature landscaping

Nearly all homes fall within a Homeowners Association, which keeps neighborhoods pristine and well-managed.

Featured Communities in Dr. Phillips

Luxury Neighborhoods:

Bay Hill – Golf community & home to the Arnold Palmer Invitational
South Bay – Custom estates next to Bay Hill, large lots, mature trees
Millionaire’s Row (Kilgore Rd) – Gated, lakefront estates along Butler Chain

Move-Up Neighborhoods:

Bay Lakes at Granada
Bay Vista Estates
Sand Lake Cove (next to Dr. Phillips Community Park)
Emerald Forest
Sand Lake Point

Each of these offers beautiful resale homes, top amenities, and access to some of Orlando’s most prized locations.

Restaurant Row: Culinary Heaven on Sand Lake

Restaurant Row is the social and dining hub of Dr. Phillips, located on Sand Lake Road between two lake chains.

Dining Highlights:

Fine Dining: Eddie V’s, Seasons 52, Fleming’s, Cristini’s Ristorante Italiano
Casual Eats: Chipotle, Rocco’s Tacos, Crumbl Cookie
Groceries: Trader Joe’s (west end), Whole Foods (east end)

This stretch also features private clubs, including the exclusive London House and The Drawing Room, a speakeasy-style cigar lounge.

The Rise of O-Town West

The billion-dollar development of O-Town West is transforming Dr. Phillips into a commercial and lifestyle powerhouse.

New restaurants and retail opening monthly
Marriott Vacations Worldwide headquarters
Luxury apartments with retail beneath
Future Tao Hotel
Jeff’s Bagel Run, salons, barbershops, and more

This master-planned development adds a modern edge to an already thriving community.

Parks, Golf & Outdoor Life

Dr. Phillips Community Park is a local gem, featuring:

Scenic lakefront walking trails
Splash pad for kids
Dog park
Sports fields and courts

And if you’re a golfer? Bay Hill Club & Lodge is PGA-famous, and locals love its tennis courts, social events, and impeccable greens.

Schools in Dr. Phillips

Winter Garden, Florida blends small-town charm with big-city amenities. Whether you’re a young professional, growing family, or retiree, it’s one of the few places in Florida offering walkable downtown living, top-tier schools, and easy access to both nature and nightlife.

Public Schools:

Dr. Phillips Elementary – 9/10 rating (GreatSchools)
Southwest Middle School
Dr. Phillips High School – STEM-focused “Project Lead the Way” curriculum

Private Schools Nearby:

Schools in Dr. Phillips

Pros:

Prime location near parks, golf, and shopping
Quiet and upscale—yet accessible to major attractions
Excellent public and private schools
Unique blend of charm, luxury, and lifestyle

Cons:

High housing costs (starting around $575K)
Traffic congestion during peak hours
Strict HOA presence in most neighborhoods

Is Dr. Phillips Right for You?

If you’re looking for luxury, convenience, and community in Orlando, Dr. Phillips checks every box. Whether you’re a family, working professional, retiree, or international buyer, it’s an exceptional choice for long-term living.

Why Choose Jared Jones?

As a top real estate agent with nearly 4,000 homes sold and over 20 years of experience in the Florida real estate market, I have the expertise needed to help you navigate today’s evolving landscape. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, my deep understanding of market trends and personalized approach will provide you with the insights and strategies required for success.

Best Realtor in Dr. Phillips - Reach Out Today!

If you’re ready to make a move in Florida’s real estate market, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact Jared Jones at 407-706-5000 (call or text) or email info@jaredjones.com for professional guidance and personalized service that will help you achieve your real estate goals.