5 SECRETS Locals Know About Orlando’s Boom in 2025

September 2, 2025

Story Highlights:

Median home price in Orlando is $380K–$400K — still more affordable than Miami or Naples
High-speed Brightline train now connects Orlando to Miami in just 3.5 hours
Job market is booming with growth in tech, healthcare, defense, and gaming industries
Top neighborhoods include Lake Nona, Dr. Phillips, College Park, and Baldwin Park
Over 1,500 people move to Orlando every week for sunshine, opportunity, and lifestyle

Is Orlando Still Affordable in 2025? Here’s the Truth from a Local Expert

Welcome to the new Orlando. Not just Mickey Mouse-ville anymore, this Central Florida city has exploded from cow pastures into one of the hottest, fastest-growing metro areas in the entire country. If you’ve been wondering whether Orlando is still affordable or if you should make the move, buckle up—because this guide will walk you through the real cost of living, the hottest neighborhoods, new job opportunities, and what life actually feels like here in 2025.

Orlando's Meteoric Rise: From Cow Town to Boomtown

Picture this: over 1,500 new residents are moving to Orlando every single week. That’s faster than Miami or Houston. Back in 1900, Orlando had just 2,400 people. Today, the metro area is approaching 3 million. Since 2020 alone, we’ve added nearly 270,000 residents—the equivalent of combining Kissimmee, Sanford, Apopka, and St. Cloud. Not bad for a city once known for citrus and cattle.

Where is Orlando Located and Why Does It Matter?

Orlando is smack dab in the heart of Central Florida. We’re about 85 miles from Tampa, 235 from Miami, and now, thanks to the Brightline high-speed train, you can ride from Orlando to Miami in just 3.5 hours. Plans are already in the works to extend that service to Tampa.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is just 6 miles from downtown and ranks as the 7th busiest in the U.S.—super convenient for anyone who travels often.

Beaches? Oh yeah. Cocoa Beach is just an hour away, and you can hit Clearwater Beach on the Gulf side in about two hours.

What Are the Best Neighborhoods in Orlando for New Residents?

Orlando isn’t just a city. It’s a patchwork of neighborhoods and zip codes, each with its own vibe. 32804 is College Park with charming bungalows and tree-lined streets. 32828 covers Avalon Park and Waterford Lakes—two eastside communities known for family-friendly living. If you’re in 32801 or 32803, you’re looking at downtown Orlando and nearby neighborhoods like Thornton Park and South Eola.

Not everyone with an “Orlando” address actually lives in the city. Dr. Phillips, MetroWest, and Hunters Creek are technically in unincorporated Orange County but still use the Orlando name. This means no city taxes, but the same access to everything locals love.

And yes, the infamous I-4 is a way of life. Expect to hear locals groan about it. Also, expect to give and receive directions based on landmarks like the nearest Wawa.

How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Home in Orlando in 2025?

For condos, you’ll find prices starting in the mid-$100s for smaller units around 700–800 square feet. The median for a 1,000 square foot unit is in the upper $100s. If you’re eyeing a downtown high-rise, expect starting prices in the $300s.

Townhomes begin in the mid-$200s and average in the upper $300s. You’ll usually get between 1,200 and 1,800 square feet and many come with garages.

Single-family homes start around $300K and go up to $450K for roughly 1,300 to 1,800 square feet. Move-up homes range from $480K to $800K with 2,500+ square feet, and often include pools and three-car garages. Luxury homes in Orlando begin around the $1 million mark.

The current median home price sits between $380K–$400K, which is still significantly more affordable than places like Miami or Naples.

Nearly half of Orlando homes sold recently had no HOA fees, thanks to older homes built before HOA requirements became the norm.

Which Orlando Neighborhoods Offer the Best Value?

Lake Nona is futuristic, full of tech-forward features and Medical City. A home in Laureate Park here typically runs between $600K and $800K.

Dr. Phillips is known for its top-rated schools, upscale vibe, and access to Restaurant Row. Four-bedroom homes with pools here generally go for $500K to $800K.

College Park offers historic charm, proximity to downtown, and homes ranging from $450K to $800K.

Baldwin Park is master-planned with a family-friendly feel. Homes usually range from the mid-$600s to mid-$700s.

Avalon Park and Waterford Lakes in East Orlando are both modern, amenity-rich, and community-oriented. Prices hover between $475K and $700K.

What Jobs Are in High Demand in Orlando Right Now?

Walt Disney World still employs about 75,000 people, but Orlando’s economy has diversified in a big way. Over 75,000 people now work in the booming tech sector. AdventHealth is one of the area’s top employers with over 37,000 staff.

Lockheed Martin employs 14,000 people in defense and simulation tech. The University of Central Florida feeds talent into the market with 70,000 students. And Electronic Arts, which makes Madden NFL, has its regional HQ here.

Until then, keep your eyes on the road… and maybe under it.

How Are the Schools in Orlando?

The Orange County Public School District serves over 200,000 students and has standout schools in neighborhoods like Lake Nona, Winter Park, Dr. Phillips, and Hunters Creek.

Orlando Science High School is a charter with national recognition, and Winter Park High is known for its arts programs and an award-winning chorus. Lake Nona boasts nearly a 100% graduation rate and partnerships with Valencia College for dual enrollment.

UCF is a major draw, known for business, computer science, and engineering. Rollins College in Winter Park is the top-ranked regional university in the South, and Valencia College is considered one of the top community colleges in the country.

Is the Orlando Food Scene Really That Good?

Yes, and it keeps getting better. Orlando now has Michelin-rated restaurants. You’ll find world-class dining experiences at places like Cadence for omakase sushi, Santiago’s Bodega for tapas, and Capa for elevated steak dinners.

Locals are borderline obsessed with Publix subs, and you’ll find Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Sprouts, and tons of multicultural grocery stores across the city.

What’s Driving Orlando’s Rapid Growth in 2025?

Universal’s brand-new Epic Universe theme park just opened and brought over 14,000 jobs with it. Creative Village in downtown is adding more than 2,000 housing units and hosts UCF’s new campus and EA Sports HQ.

Lake Nona continues to expand with major companies like Johnson & Johnson setting up shop. And don’t forget about the I-4 express lane project—aimed at untangling the worst traffic spots.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Living in Orlando?

The pros include warm winters, affordable housing (relatively speaking), a diverse and welcoming community, strong job market, and year-round events. The cons? Summer heat and humidity, I-4 traffic, tourist congestion, and rising insurance rates.

What is There to Do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks?

Locals love kayaking and swimming at Wekiva Springs or boating on one of several chain-of-lakes. Golfers have over 170 courses to choose from. You can cheer on the Orlando Magic or Orlando City Soccer Club. And there’s a growing arts scene with museums and live performances at the Dr. Phillips Center.

You’re also a short drive from Cocoa Beach or Clearwater, and you can catch rocket launches over at Cape Canaveral.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Orlando

Is Orlando a good place to raise a family in 2025?

Absolutely. Between top-rated schools, abundant parks, family-friendly neighborhoods, and tons of activities for all ages, Orlando is a standout spot for families.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Orlando?

Most households aiming for comfortable living with a mortgage, two cars, and some lifestyle perks should shoot for $70,000–$90,000 or more. Of course, location and lifestyle will impact your actual needs.

Is it safe to live in Orlando?

Safety varies by neighborhood, but areas like Baldwin Park, Winter Park, and Lake Nona are known for their safety and active community watch groups.

Do people who live in Orlando actually go to Disney?

Yes! Many locals have annual passes and will go for dinner, fireworks, or a quick afternoon visit. It’s just part of life here.

How is the job market in Orlando in 2025?

Strong and still growing. Tech, healthcare, education, and aerospace are driving most of the new opportunities. It’s not just about the theme parks anymore.

Is Orlando walkable?

In some neighborhoods, absolutely. College Park, Baldwin Park, Thornton Park, and downtown all offer walkable lifestyles with dining, parks, and retail within blocks.

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 Orlando - 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.