Kissimmee Housing Market: Why It’s 20% Cheaper Than Orlando

Why Kissimmee, Florida Is 20 Percent More Affordable Than Orlando

August 13, 2025

Story Highlights:

• Kissimmee homes cost up to 20% less than those in nearby Orlando, with a median price around $360K.
• The city offers easy access to Disney, the airport, and downtown, plus major highways like the Turnpike and I-4.
• Rapid growth is underway with new construction, infrastructure improvements, and large developments like Tohoqua, Kindred, and Hilliard Isle.
• Local life is full of charm—from lakefront parks to vibrant Latin culture, rodeos, and food festivals.
• If you’re looking for affordable homes in Central Florida with strong future value, Kissimmee is a smart move.

Why Kissimmee, Florida Is 20 Percent More Affordable Than Orlando (And What That Means for Buyers)

What if I told you there’s a city just minutes from Disney, downtown Orlando, and the airport—but where homes cost up to 20% less than what you’d pay just a few miles north?

Welcome to Kissimmee, Florida. It’s one of the fastest-growing cities in Central Florida, and if you’ve been house hunting anywhere near Orlando, this might be the best-kept secret you haven’t considered yet.

Where Is Kissimmee Located and How Close Is It to Orlando's Major Attractions?

Kissimmee sits just south of Orlando, along the northwest shore of Lake Tohopekaliga (locals call it Lake Toho). It’s just:

• 15 minutes from Walt Disney World
• 25 minutes from Orlando International Airport
• 30 minutes from Downtown Orlando

With easy access to Florida’s Turnpike, I-4, and Osceola Parkway, you’re never far from anywhere you need to go. Whether you’re commuting, heading to the beach, or catching a flight, the location is incredibly convenient.

How Kissimmee Transformed from a Quiet Cow Town to a Real Estate Hotspot

If you only know Kissimmee from its tourism corridor, think again. This was once a quiet agricultural town (nicknamed “Cow Town”—you’ll still spot murals of cowboy boots downtown). But ever since Walt Disney arrived in the 1970s, Kissimmee has steadily grown from 7,000 residents to nearly 90,000 today.

That growth has been anything but random. Osceola County, where Kissimmee sits, is one of the fastest-growing counties in Florida—adding over 15,000 residents in just one recent year. As a result, the area has seen major investment in schools, roads, neighborhoods, and commercial development. Kissimmee is no longer a pass-through—it’s a place people are choosing to live.

Why Housing in Kissimmee Is More Affordable Than Orlando’s Core Suburbs

Let’s talk numbers. While the median home price in the Orlando metro hovers around $455,000, Kissimmee comes in closer to $360,000. That’s a meaningful difference—especially for first-time buyers or anyone relocating to Florida and trying to get the most house for their money.

Starter homes in Kissimmee can be found in the mid-$200,000s, while move-up homes in the 1,800 to 2,600 square foot range typically run from $300,000 to $400,000. There are even luxury lakefront properties and mini-ranch style homes available for $550,000 to $800,000—pricing that would be nearly impossible to find that close to Orlando.

And unlike many other Central Florida suburbs, not everything here comes with an HOA. Around 25% of listings are in non-HOA neighborhoods, giving buyers more flexibility. Even in new construction communities that do have HOAs or CDD fees, the value you get—resort-style pools, parks, and walking trails—still makes it feel like a strong tradeoff.

What It’s Like to Actually Live in Kissimmee

Some of the biggest real estate growth stories in the Orlando metro are happening right here in Kissimmee. New master-planned communities like Tohoqua and Kindred are leading the way, offering miles of trails, schools, shops, and resort-style amenities—all within minutes of major highways. Homes in these neighborhoods start in the mid-$300Ks and can run into the $500Ks, depending on size and location.

Even bigger change is coming in the form of new road systems that will make southern Kissimmee and Poinciana far more accessible. A new connector from I-4 to Poinciana Parkway is in the works, along with beltway expansions that will open up entire sections of southern Osceola County. That kind of infrastructure typically leads to faster commutes—and rising home values.

Downtown Kissimmee is also undergoing a transformation. The city has big plans to revitalize areas like the old Kmart site on Vine Street and the Toho Square civic center area. Mixed-use apartment towers, new hotels, rooftop bars, grocery stores, and walkable retail are in planning or approval phases—aimed at turning downtown into a much more vibrant, urban hub.

And one of the biggest developments of all is Hilliard Isle, a 900-acre master-planned community coming to the city’s east side. It will include more than 3,000 homes, commercial space, and a lakefront town center with shops, dining, and marina access. Construction is expected to begin in 2026.

Final Thoughts: Is Now a Good Time to Buy in Kissimmee?

If you’re looking for a place that gives you more space, more lifestyle, and more affordability—without giving up access to Orlando’s biggest attractions—Kissimmee deserves serious consideration.

Between the growing list of new communities, the upcoming transportation improvements, and the continued affordability compared to Orlando, this market has all the signs of long-term value. It’s not just a smart move financially—it’s a great place to live.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Kissimmee Housing Market

Why is the Kissimmee housing market cheaper than Orlando?
Kissimmee homes cost less due to more available land, newer developments, and being slightly farther from Orlando’s downtown.

What is the average home price in Kissimmee?
The median price is about $360,000—around 20% lower than the Orlando metro average.

Is Kissimmee a good place to invest?
Yes. Strong population growth, new roads, and major developments make it a promising market.

What types of homes can I find in Kissimmee?
From entry-level homes and townhouses to luxury lakefront estates, plus many new construction options.

How close is Kissimmee to Disney and Orlando?
Most areas are 15 minutes from Disney, 25 minutes from the airport, and 30 minutes from downtown Orlando.

Are there non-HOA neighborhoods in Kissimmee?
Yes—about 25% of homes are in non-HOA communities.

What areas are growing the fastest?
Tohoqua, Kindred, and upcoming projects like Hilliard Isle are leading the growth.

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 Kissimmee - 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.