Hey there, welcome to this article where we get to explore the exciting neighborhoods of Orlando! As an Orlando realtor, I’ve had the pleasure of discovering some hidden gems that you won’t want to miss out on. The Orlando real estate market may be crazy right now, but that’s even more reason to consider these top 7 neighborhoods.
Now, I know I’ve talked a lot about suburbs in the past, and while they’re a popular choice for many people moving to Orlando Florida, there’s something special about being closer to downtown. And that’s exactly what these neighborhoods offer! Not only are they conveniently located, but they’re also filled with vibrant culture and endless fun.
So, let’s dive right in and explore what each one has to offer.
Top 7: Conway
Conway is one of the older neighborhoods in Orlando. I love it because it’s very charming and consists of 50s and 60s style homes, with some newer developments built in the ‘80s, ‘90s and 2000s. It’s an older area, but it’s still close to downtown Orlando, taking only about 10 minutes to get there. Additionally, it’s about a 10-minute drive to the airport, making it a great neighborhood if you frequently fly or work for the airport.
The Conway chain of lakes is also a great feature of this neighborhood, with beautiful, pristine lakes and lakefront homes ranging from $1 million to $3 million, while regular homes range from the $200,000s to $400,000s. Most people in Conway own their homes, and the schools in the area are rated B, which is above average. While there are some rental properties, the majority of the homes are single-family homes.
One downside to Conway is that roadside landscaping could use some improvement, but it’s still one of the best places to live in Orlando.
Top 6: Lake Nona
Lake Nona is a new development that has sprung up in the last five to seven years. While it used to be very rural out there, it now boasts world-class hospitals and tons of shopping options. If you want everything new, new, new – new stores, new restaurants, new everything – then Lake Nona is an excellent choice if you’re planning on living in Orlando Florida.
However, it’s not as convenient to get into downtown Orlando, taking about 20 to 25 minutes to get there. The schools in the area are rated B, and there are plenty of townhomes, condos, and single-family homes to choose from. If new construction is your thing, then Lake Nona might be the right neighborhood for you.
Top 5: College Park
College Park is a neighborhood that’s near and dear to my heart. I lived there for about 15 years, and I can tell you that it’s a wonderful neighborhood with a small-town feel. Many neighborhoods have a cookie-cutter feel to them, but College Park is unique in that it has its own little small-town feel.
The area has many mid-century homes, newer homes, and brick-lined streets, and the older homes are replaced with new ones that are just as beautiful. You’ll find mostly single-family homes in the area, with a few condos and apartments. You’ll also find plenty of locally-owned restaurants and shops, and the schools in the area are rated “A” and “B.”
If you’re looking for a neighborhood with character – and one of the best places to live in Orlando – then College Park is the place to be.
Top 4: Downtown Orlando and the Lake Eola Park Area
Downtown Orlando and the Lake Eola Park area is a fantastic place to live in. There are plenty of condos and apartments available if you prefer a more urban lifestyle. The schools in the area are above average, with a B rating. The community is split almost evenly between renters and homeowners. You can find both historic homes and ultra-modern condos in this area, as it is where Orlando first began. The streets are lined with charming brickwork, adding to the area’s charm.
While it may not be the most affordable place to live in Orlando, the convenience and walkability of downtown make it an excellent choice. With all the interstates and expressways running through the area, you can easily access other parts of the city. Plus, you can walk to most places or take an Uber, making it a highly desirable location. Overall, I love this area and highly recommend it.
Top 3: Delaney Park
Delaney Park is a beautiful neighborhood located just south of downtown with stunning homes, an impressive A-rated school system, and approximately 90% of homeowners in the area. The vintage homes and unique designs add to the overall appeal, while the nearby Lake Como area provides residents with plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities.
Despite being somewhat walkable, there are also plenty of shops and restaurants in the nearby Orange Avenue area. Residents have easy access to all the amenities and attractions of downtown, including parks, museums, and entertainment venues.
Overall, Delaney Park is a perfect blend of history, charm, and modern convenience, making it a highly desirable place to live in.
Top 2: Colonial Town North
Moving on to number two, let’s talk about Colonial Town North. This trendy and hipster area is one of the best places to live in Orlando, located just five minutes away from downtown and conveniently close to the 408 Expressway. What makes this area unique are the mid-century modern homes, which are not commonly found in Orlando.
Although they may be smaller, around 1500 square feet, they are certainly cute and add to the neighborhood’s charm. There are also plenty of great restaurants in the area, with East End Market being a particularly popular spot. This market offers farm-to-table restaurants, a brewery, an amazing cookie shop, and a bakery. On a Saturday afternoon, people come to hang out, enjoying the picnic tables and the fantastic food.
In addition to its dining scene, Colonial Town North has plenty of other benefits. It is a family-friendly area with a young and exciting vibe. The schools in the area are rated above average, with a B rating, making it an ideal place to consider if you’re looking for a new home in Orlando.
Top 1: Baldwin Park
And now, let’s move on to the number one neighborhood according to niche.com and my personal recommendation, Baldwin Park. Baldwin Park has been consistently ranked as the top neighborhood in Orlando for several years, and I can’t say I’m surprised. It’s a newer development that has been carefully planned, nestled between downtown Orlando and Winter Park, making it the perfect location.
One thing I love about Baldwin Park is that the schools in the area are top-rated with an impressive A rating, making it an ideal place to raise a family. Plus, Baldwin Park is a very walkable neighborhood, which is always a huge plus in my book. The little downtown area is full of charming shops and restaurants, offering a perfect place to spend your weekends.
If you’re looking for a place to call home, you’ll be happy to know that Baldwin Park offers a range of housing options. From townhomes, apartments, and condos to single-family homes, there’s something for everyone. And, with homes starting in the mid-three hundred thousand and going up to well over a million, there are options for different budgets too.
Final Thoughts
I hope you found this list of top neighborhoods in Orlando helpful in your search for the perfect place to call home. If you’re considering moving to Orlando Florida, it’s important to do your research and find the neighborhood that fits your lifestyle and preferences. And as a little gift from me to you, be sure to download my free relocation guide which you can find in the comment box below.
If you have any questions about the area or need assistance in finding a great agent, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I’m here to help in any way I can. And if you know anyone else who’s considering moving to Orlando or anywhere in the United States, please feel free to share this article with them.
Remember, finding the perfect neighborhood is the first step in creating your dream life in Orlando. I wish you all the best in your search and can’t wait to see where you end up. Happy house hunting!
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