How well do you know Orlando neighborhoods? To make it as an agent in the Theme Park Capital of the World, you need to know the best neighborhoods in Orlando for real estate.
Use this guide as a primer, as we’ve provided critical data for a few neighborhoods and communities near Orlando. However, the only way to really get to know the best neighborhoods in the Orlando area is to spend time in each one, talking with business owners and residents and learning about its amenities—like the parks, walking trails, libraries, businesses, etc., of each one.
Best Neighborhoods in Orlando
We used the following criteria to analyze these best neighborhoods in Orlando:
- Home values
- Population growth
- Owner-occupied homes vs. renter-occupied homes
- School district ratings
- Crime rates
Here’s a breakdown of each Orlando neighborhood based on the criteria provided. We obtained information from the U.S. Census Bureau, Zillow, and Niche in November 2024.
Are you starting as an agent in Orlando? Here’s what you need to know about the market.
Downtown Orlando, FL
Downtown Orlando offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with easy access to dining, entertainment, and job opportunities.
- Home values: Home values are high due to the steadily growing demand for central urban living.
- Population growth: Downtown Orlando has grown about 4% from 2020 to 2023.
- Owner-occupied vs. renter-occupied homes: Most people rent their homes in Downtown Orlando. The median rent is $1,977.
- School district ratings: Downtown schools are well-rated, with notable magnet and charter options.
- Crime rates: Crime rates in Downtown Orlando are higher than in suburban areas but have improved with increased community and city initiatives.
Lake Nona South, FL
Lake Nona South is located in the southeastern part of Orlando. It offers easy access to downtown Orlando and Orlando International Airport. The community is part of the greater Lake Nona region, known for its proximity to the Lake Nona Medical City and numerous parks, trails, and luxury residences.
- Home Values: The average value of a home in Lake Nona South is $740,553, up 0.9% year over year (YoY).
- Population growth: The area has seen rapid growth due to the appeal of Lake Nona Medical City and the influx of tech-related opportunities. Niche labels this community as “sparse suburban.”
- Owner-occupied vs. renter-occupied homes: Lake Nona South is primarily owner-occupied, featuring luxury homes and estates. The median rent is $2,236.
- School district ratings: Schools in the area have excellent ratings and modern facilities.
- Crime Rates: Lake Nona South has low crime rates.
Winter Park, FL
Winter Park, FL, is located just north of downtown Orlando. It’s a picturesque and historic community known for its tree-lined streets, upscale boutiques, cultural institutions, and scenic lakes.
- Home values: The average home value in Winter Park, FL, is $461,403, up 2.7% YoY.
- Population growth: As an established and exclusive area, its population growth is steady but slower than that of other neighborhoods.
- Owner-occupied vs. renter-occupied homes: Most residents of Winter Park own their own homes. The median rent is $1,634.
- School district ratings: The area has top-rated schools, both public and private.
- Crime rates: The crime rate is low in Winter Park.
Baldwin Park, FL
Baldwin Park, FL, is a master-planned community located just east of downtown Orlando. It offers a mix of residential charm, parks, lakes, and a lively village center with shops and restaurants.
- Home values: Baldwin Park is a desirable, planned community, so the home values are high ($769,063 – up 4.4% YoY).
- Population growth: The neighborhood is experiencing moderate growth.
- Owner-occupied vs. renter-occupied homes: Niche says more people rent than own their home in Baldwin Park, FL. The average rent is $2,245.
- School district ratings: There are strong public school options in Baldwin Park.
- Crime rates: Crime rates are low, with community initiatives focused on safety.
Doctor Phillips, FL
Doctor Phillips, FL, is located southwest of Orlando near the famous theme parks. It’s a well-established community named after Dr. Phillip Phillips, a citrus magnate. Dr. Phillips offers upscale living, dining, and entertainment options.
- Home values: The average home value in Doctor Phillips, FL, is $543,073, up 3.0% YoY.
- Population growth: Doctor Phillips has experienced steady growth, as it’s attractive to families and retirees alike.
- Owner-occupied vs. renter-occupied homes: More residents of Doctor Phillips own their own home than rent (73% vs 27%).
- School district ratings: Doctor Phillips has sought-after schools that perform well.
- Crime rates: Crime rates are low in this area.
Windermere, FL
Windermere, FL, is an affluent town west of Orlando, located on a series of lakes. It’s known for its serene, scenic surroundings and luxurious lakefront estates.
- Home values: Some of the most luxurious homes in Orlando are located in Windermere, FL. The average home value is $711,066, which has increased by 3.6% YoY.
- Population growth: This area’s population growth is moderate. Windermere’s population consists primarily of affluent families and professionals.
- Owner-occupied vs. renter-occupied homes: There are very few renters in Windermere.
- School district ratings: Windermere has some of the highest-rated schools in the region.
- Crime rates: Crime rates are very low in this neighborhood.
College Park, FL
College Park, FL, is a charming Orlando neighborhood located just northwest of downtown, known for its vintage homes, vibrant local shops, and tree-lined streets.
- Home values: The home value of College Park, FL, is increasing. It’s currently $516,999, which is up 3% YoY.
- Population growth: College Park is experiencing moderate population growth. The population includes a mix of young professionals and families. Niche describes the neighborhood as dense suburban.
- Owner-occupied vs. renter-occupied homes: Most people in College Park own their own homes. The median rent is $1,670.
- School district ratings: The schools in College Park have a good rating.
- Crime rates: Although the area is generally considered safe, College Park has a moderate crime rate.
Audubon Park, FL
Audubon Park, FL, is a trendy Orlando neighborhood located northeast of downtown. It’s celebrated for its eco-conscious vibe, local markets, and unique mix of independent shops and eateries, making it a vibrant and creative community. Niche has named Audubon Park the #1 best neighborhood in Orlando.
- Home values: The average home value in Audubon Park, FL, is $470,348, showing 5% YoY growth.
- Population growth: The neighborhood appeals to young families and eco-conscious residents. Audubon Park has moderate population growth.
- Owner-occupied vs. renter-occupied homes: More people own than rent in Audubon Park, with the median rent listed at $2,031.
- School district ratings: There are good public school options in Audubon Park.
- Crime rates: The crime rate in Audubon Park is labeled low to moderate.
Thornton Park, FL
Thornton Park, located just east of downtown Orlando, is a stylish and historic neighborhood known for its charming bungalows, brick-lined streets, and vibrant dining and nightlife scene.
- Home values: Thornton Park’s historic charm comes with high home values. The average home in this Orlando neighborhood is $534,946.
- Population growth: Thornton Park is experiencing steady growth as the neighborhood appeals to young professionals.
- Owner-occupied vs. renter-occupied homes: While most residents of Thornton Park own their own homes, 32% are renters. The median rent is $1,869, according to Niche.
- School district ratings: Schools are rated high in this community.
- Crime rates: Crime rates for Thornton Park are listed as “moderate,” though crime has decreased with community and city improvements.
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