Explore 8 Vibrant Cities in Orlando Florida

Cities in the greater Orlando Florida metropolitan area offer a unique blend of urban and suburban lifestyles. Orlando’s thriving job market, diverse communities, excellent weather, and abundant recreational opportunities make it an attractive adopted hometown professionals and families. USA Today reported that Orlando, Florida was the number one travel and vacation destination in the United States for 2022, contributing over $30 billion to the local economy. 

The Orlando Florida Economy

The Orlando, Florida region’s excellent economy is supported by its strong tourism industry. World-renowned attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Sea World, to name a few, make it a top destination for family vacations. 

Two of the world’s best beaches, Daytona Beach and Cocoa Beach, are just an hour to the east. Cocoa Beach is also home to the Kennedy Space Center. These popular destinations for tourist and residents alike add to Orlando’s economic powerhouse. 

The vast Orange County Convention Center and ample supply of accommodations makes it a top destination for trade shows and corporate events, second only to Las Vegas. 

Orlando and it’s more suburban sister cities have a commitment to innovation and a diverse, thriving economy. The area’s growing technology sector, advanced healthcare facilities, and excellent highway system are a testament to that. A number of top companies have their headquarters or regional operations here in Orlando, Florida.

Orlando Florida Metropolitan Area Cities

Oviedo, Florida

Oviedo is one of the most desirable cities in Orlando Florida to live in. That’s based on the excellent scores and reputation of its Seminole County schools, well built homes, and family friendly communities. 

Oviedo is known for its rural feel and rich history. Founded by Swedish immigrants in the 19th century. It offers a great base to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of Seminole County, as well as the nearby attractions of Orlando. 

The city has a vibrant downtown with shops, restaurants, and art galleries, and is famous for its population of chickens that roam the downtown area.

Chuluota, Florida

Chuluota is a rural area of unincorporated Seminole County just to the east of Oviedo. Residents are zoned for A-rated Hagerty High School located in Oviedo as well as other excellent, Seminole County elementary and middle schools. 

Winter Springs, Florida

Winter Springs was ranked by the August 2011 issue of Money Magazine as the 97th best place to live in the United States. It offers residents a sparse suburban feel with a lot of parks. Most residents own their homes. Median home prices are significantly higher than other cities in Orlando Florida area. That is reflected in the quality of the homes and communities in Winter Springs.

Winter Park, Florida

Winter Park is among the oldest cities in Orlando Florida. It is well known for its blend of culture, nature, and history. Once a winter resort for wealthy Northerners, it now attracts visitors with its scenic boat tours, lush gardens, and impressive museums. 

The city has a vibrant downtown with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. It also hosts popular events throughout the year, including the Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival.

Lake Mary, Florida

Lake Mary is a city in Seminole County, Florida, known for its high quality of life. It was ranked by Money magazine as the 4th best place to live in America in 2007. The city is home to the world’s largest indoor amusement park, the Planet Obstacle, and the Lake Mary Museum. It also offers outdoor activities like walking, biking, and kayaking.

Heathrow, Florida

Heathrow is an unincorporated, master planned community in Seminole County, Florida. It’s often associated with Lake Mary. They are adjacent and share a ZIP Code, 32746. Heathrow is a private gated residential community of approximately 2,200 homes and a business park, Heathrow International Business Center, an office park. Heathrow was founded in 1985 by Jeno Paulucci, a food business entrepreneur of Jeno’s Pizza Rolls fame.

Sanford, Florida

Sanford is located in Seminole County, Florida, and the county seat. It is known as the “Historic Waterfront Gateway City”, Sanford sits on the southern shore of Lake Monroe at the head of navigation on the St. Johns River. It’s home to the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Its downtown attracts tourists with shops, restaurants, a marina, and a lakefront walking trail.

Conclusion

Regardless of which of the cities in Orlando Florida that you choose to call home, you will enjoy a high quality of life with excellent weather year-round. You will have access to high quality education, healthcare, and a plethora of family friendly activities. It’s well worth the time to consider the Orlando, Florida metropolitan area for your next home.