Many people dream of retiring to Florida, enjoying the beautiful weather and proximity to the beach. Afterall, Florida is the best state to retire to according to us and pretty much every other list. If you’re ready relocate to Orlando, you may be picturing theme parks and waterways. These are great perks, but Orlando has much more to offer than you may realize. Below are six of the best places to retire to in the Orlando area based on factors like safety, culture, quality of the schools, and access to entertainment.
Park Lake
A variety of publications have listed Park Lake as not just the best place to retire in Orlando, but in all of Florida. The quiet neighborhood is located just north of Lake Eola, offering majestic views. Much of the neighborhood is made up of young professionals who frequent the local bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks in the area.
One major appeal of Park Lake/Highlands is the Orlando Urban Trail, a great place to walk or bike, stopping off at local coffee shops for a refreshing break. Some people even grab their morning drink as they walk the trail to work! The neighborhood is also near Lake Highland Prep, one of the top academic schools in the area, with smaller campuses.
Homes in the area are in high demand, placing them in the higher price range, usually ranging from $200,000 to $399,000.
Thornton Park
On the eastern side of Lake Eola Park is Thornton Park, known as one of the hippest areas in Orlando. A variety of venues offer indie music which can often be heard from the many outdoor restaurants near the lake. Residents can also enjoy festivals, shops, a weekly farmers market, and the young professional demographic in the town. One of the highlights in Thornton Park is the Art & Wine Walk, which takes place every second Thursday of the month with new vendors.
Thornton Park is a top choice in Orlando because of the beautiful historic homes and luxury apartments, all a short 10-minute walk from the business hub Downtown. Public schools are above average, including Hillcrest Elementary School, Howard Middle School, and Boone High School.
Downtown Orlando
For a more sophisticated vibe, the central Downtown area is often listed as one of the best neighborhoods in Orlando. The streets are lined with beautiful high-rises and offices, creating a metropolitan view of a thriving business district. Downtown offers a “live, work, play” environment, with culture at your fingertips.
The Walt Disney Amphitheater is the center of nightlight, hosting festivals, concerts, and performances throughout the year. Before stopping by, you can visit your choice of seafood markets and clubs or museums in the area. Unlike some cities, Downtown Orlando is one of the safest neighborhoods in the area.
Delaney Park
Home of one of Orlando’s oldest parks, Delaney Park is a quiet residential area lined with giant spreading oaks that create beautiful views. The neighborhood is extremely family-oriented, including A-rated schools. You’ll see residents out running or spending time on local playgrounds with their children, as well as at the surrounding parks and lakes. For the less nature-oriented, local shopping districts and venues abound. Delaney Park is also centrally located, providing easy access to all of Central Florida.
Audubon Park
This eco-village is perfect for nature lovers and shopaholics. Located near Winter Park and Downtown Orlando, this neighborhood is home to the Orlando tree of life, which partakes in “fleet farming” to help neighbors grow their own food. Residents can plant fruit trees in the yard, while locals and businesses enjoy them at no cost.
Historically, Audubon Park was centered around the Orlando Air Force Base and Naval Training Center, but it has become a community of unique small businesses and constant events and activities. The vibrant energy has drawn people to its award-winning shopping district, quirky vintage shops, cafes, and bakeries.
Altamonte Springs
Less than 30 minutes from Downtown Orlando, Altamonte Springs is known to be 45% safer than other Florida cities and offers affordable homes. Residents can enjoy superb dining and nightlife and a range of outdoor activities, as well as great schools, including Saint Mary Magdalen Catholic School and Lake Brantley High School.
If you’re wanting something that’s designed just for retirees, you’ll want to check out Del Webb in Florida. Their Davenport community is less than 30 minutes to Orlando proper.