Orlando, Florida
Beyond the theme parks: tech corridor, diverse suburbs, and community-oriented communities
Orlando, FL: Quick Facts (Updated August 2026)
What is the median home price in Orlando?
The median home price in Orlando is $425,000 as of August 2026. Prices vary significantly by neighborhood: Winter Park and Dr. Phillips command premiums, while Kissimmee and areas south offer more affordable options.
How far is Orlando from the beach?
About 45 minutes to 1 hour from both the Atlantic coast (Cocoa Beach) and the Gulf Coast (Tampa/St. Pete). Orlando's central Florida location means residents can reach either coast within an hour, a major lifestyle advantage.
What are property taxes in Orlando?
The average property tax rate in Orlando is ~1.1%. Orange County homesteaded rates are approximately 1.0% to 1.3%. Lake, Seminole, and Osceola counties nearby offer even lower rates in some areas.
Is Orlando a good place to live?
Orlando is a major city in Orange County with approximately 320,000 (metro area over 2.6 million) residents, one of America's fastest-growing metros with a thriving tech corridor, world-class healthcare, and diverse suburban communities from historic Winter Park to master-planned Lake Nona. It is far more than theme parks: it offers a robust job market, diverse neighborhoods, and a central location that puts both Florida coasts within easy reach.
What is the cost of living in Orlando?
Orlando has a cost of living index of approximately 97 (US average 100), making it one of the more affordable major metros in Florida with strong job market opportunities.
Data sources: Local county property appraiser records, Florida Realtors market data, U.S. Census Bureau estimates, and FEMA flood map data. Figures are approximate and subject to change.
Orlando is far more than theme parks and tourist attractions. It's one of America's fastest-growing metropolitan areas, with a thriving tech corridor, world-class healthcare, diverse suburban communities, and a cost of living that still offers value compared to the Northeast. For NJ relocators considering a move to Florida, Orlando presents a compelling option with a robust job market (especially in tech, healthcare, hospitality, and aerospace), suburban communities, and a central location that puts both Florida coasts within easy driving distance. The Orlando metro area includes dozens of distinct communities, from historic Winter Park to master-planned Lake Nona to equestrian-friendly Windermere, each with its own character.
Want to listen? Here's the summary:
Orlando is far more than theme parks and tourist attractions. It's one of America's fastest-growing metropolitan areas, with a thriving tech corridor, world-class healthcare, diverse suburban communities, and a cost of living that still offers value compared to the Northeast. The median home price is around $425,000, with a range from $275,000 to $1 million-plus. Property tax rates average approximately 1.1%, roughly half of Bergen County's 2.3% average. The metro area offers diverse suburban communities from Winter Park and College Park to Windermere and Lake Nona, each with its own character. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a major hub with direct flights to Newark and other Northeast airports. Homeowners insurance is moderate, typically $1,500 to $4,000 annually. Orlando is best for relocators seeking diverse suburban options, tech and healthcare professionals, and NJ transplants who want a major metro with diverse job opportunities and central Florida access to both coasts.
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Key Numbers for Orlando
Property Taxes
~1.1%
vs. Bergen County ~2.3%
Median Home Price
$425K
$275K to $2M+
State Income Tax
0%
vs. NJ up to 10.75%
Best For
Relocators seeking diverse suburban options with community amenities, Tech and healthcare professionals, Those who want central Florida access to both coasts, NJ transplants who want a major metro with diverse job opportunities, People who enjoy theme parks, entertainment, and year-round events
Life in Orlando
Orlando's neighborhoods are incredibly diverse. Winter Park offers a charming New England-style downtown with Park Avenue's upscale shopping and dining, Rollins College, and beautiful chain-of-lakes homes. Lake Nona is a cutting-edge smart city with a world-class medical district, modern homes, and a vibrant town center. Dr. Phillips is one of the most desirable suburbs with the Restaurant Row on Sand Lake Road.
Celebration, the planned community developed by Disney, remains a popular choice with its picture-perfect downtown and strong sense of community. Windermere offers estate homes on the Butler Chain of Lakes. Kissimmee and areas south provide more affordable options close to the attractions.
Beyond tourism, Orlando has a growing arts scene with the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, the Cornell Fine Arts Museum, and a thriving craft brewery culture. The city has professional sports (Magic NBA, Orlando City MLS), upscale shopping at the Mall at Millenia and Park Avenue, and hundreds of lakes for boating and recreation.
Property Tax Comparison: Bergen County vs. Orlando
Orange County property taxes are significantly lower than Bergen County, with effective homesteaded rates of approximately 1.0% to 1.3%. Florida's no state income tax adds to the savings. Lake, Seminole, and Osceola counties nearby offer even lower rates in some cases.
Bergen County, NJ
~2.3%
On a $600,000 home: ~$13,800/year
Orlando, FL
~1.1%
On a $450,000 home: approximately $4,950/year. Bergen County equivalent: ~$10,350/year.
Florida homeowners enjoy no state income tax and property taxes roughly half of Bergen County's rates.
This is educational information only. Consult a licensed CPA or tax attorney for advice specific to your situation.
Schools & Education
Orlando is served by Orange County Public Schools, one of the largest school districts in the nation. Suburban areas in Seminole County, just north of Orlando, also have their own school systems.
- Seminole County schools serve Winter Park, Lake Mary, and surrounding areas
- Lake Nona High School and Boone High School offer IB programs
- Windermere High School serves the growing west Orange area
- Elementary schools across the metro
- University of Central Florida, one of the nation’s largest universities
Getting Back to New Jersey
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a major hub with non-stop flights to Newark (EWR), LaGuardia (LGA), and other NJ-area airports. Driving to Bergen County is approximately 13-14 hours via I-95.
Insurance Considerations
Homeowners insurance in Orlando is lower than coastal Florida but higher than inland areas further north. Expect annual premiums between $2,500 and $5,500. Newer homes with wind mitigation features can significantly reduce costs. Flood insurance is generally not needed outside mapped flood zones.
Insurance rates and availability vary by carrier, location, and property type. Consult your carrier or a licensed Florida insurance agent for current rates and coverage options.
Your Orlando Relocation Playbook
Moving from New Jersey to Orlando is one of the most rewarding decisions you will make, and having a clear plan makes all the difference. Whether you are buying or renting, the process follows a predictable path. Start with research and budgeting, then move into property selection, financing, and the final transition. The full NJ to FL Relocation Checklist walks you through every step from 12 months out to after the move.
The Southbound Advisory Council Approach
Scott Selleck's Southbound Advisory Council is designed specifically for NJ-to-FL relocators. From your first conversation, you receive a structured timeline, vetted agent referrals in your destination market, and ongoing support through every phase of the move.
Renting in Orlando
The theme park capital with urban energy, diverse neighborhoods, and affordable rents.
Rental Market Snapshot
What Renters Are Paying
Average rent across all unit types: approximately $1,800/mo. Orlando offers some of the most affordable rental options in Central Florida.
What You Get for That Rent
Orlando is Central Florida's largest city, offering renters an incredible range of options. The rental market includes downtown lofts, suburban communities in Winter Park and Lake Nona, historic neighborhoods like College Park and Thornton Park, and newer developments throughout the metro. Most buildings include parking, and the city's growing tech and healthcare sectors provide strong employment.
Florida Renter Protections: What You Need to Know
Security Deposits
Florida does not cap security deposits. Landlords can charge any amount, though one to two months' rent is standard. Landlords must hold deposits in a separate non-interest-bearing account or post a surety bond. After move-out, they have 15 days to return the deposit with no deductions, or 30 days to send written notice of any claimed damages.
Lease Terms and Notice
Florida is a default-eviction state. Landlords can terminate a month-to-month tenancy with 15 days' written notice. For nonpayment of rent, landlords can issue a 3-day notice to pay or vacate. There is no statewide just-cause eviction requirement, though local ordinances may add protections.
HOA Rental Restrictions
Many Orlando communities are governed by HOAs that restrict rentals. Common restrictions include minimum lease terms of 6 to 12 months, caps on the percentage of units that can be rented, and tenant approval requirements. Always verify HOA rules before signing a lease, as these restrictions can limit your options.
Source: Florida Statutes Chapter 83, Landlord and Tenant
Where Theme Parks Meet Real Living
Orlando's rental market offers something for every lifestyle. From downtown lofts near Lake Eola to suburban communities in Winter Park, Lake Nona, and Dr. Phillips, the diversity of neighborhoods means you can find the right fit whether you want walkable urban energy or quiet suburban streets. The city's food scene has exploded in recent years, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to James Beard-recognized chefs and a thriving craft brewery culture.
Orlando's arts and culture scene goes far beyond theme parks. The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts hosts Broadway tours and concerts, the Cornell Fine Arts Museum offers world-class exhibitions, and the city's craft brewery scene is among the best in Florida. For outdoor enthusiasts, the city has hundreds of lakes for boating and recreation, extensive parks, and a central location that puts both Florida coasts within easy reach.
For NJ relocators, Orlando offers an unbeatable combination: affordable rents compared to the Northeast, a robust job market in tech and healthcare, diverse neighborhood options, and year-round warm weather. The large Northeast transplant community means you will find familiar faces and amenities. With MCO offering direct flights to Newark and other NJ airports, visiting family back home is as easy as a two-hour flight.
Scott Selleck knows Orlando well. He can help you find the right rental community and neighborhood for your needs and budget.
Commute Options for Renters
SunRail
Route: North-south commuter rail through Orlando metro
Time: 45 minutes from Winter Park to southern Orange County
Monthly pass: approximately $120
Best for: Daily commuters within the Orlando metro corridor
LYNX Bus
Route: LYNX bus system serving all of Orange County
Time: 20-45 minutes to most destinations across metro
Monthly pass: approximately $50
Best for: Local commutes, access to downtown and surrounding suburbs
Driving
Route: I-4, Florida's Turnpike, or local roads
Time: 20-30 minutes across metro, 45 minutes to MCO airport
Tolls: I-4 express lanes and Florida's Turnpike vary by distance
Parking: Most rental communities include parking
What It Actually Costs to Rent in Orlando
Monthly Rent
Median $1,800/mo for a typical 1-2 bedroom apartment
Security Deposit
No state cap. Standard is 1-2 months' rent
Utilities
Electric $130-$200/mo (OUC), water $35-$65/mo, internet $60-$90/mo
Renters Insurance
Commonly required by landlords. $15-$30/mo
HOA Fees
Some communities charge $50-$200/mo for amenities
Pet Costs
Monthly pet rent $25-$75. Breed and size restrictions common in some HOA communities
All figures are estimates based on current Orlando market data as of August 2026. Actual costs vary by community, unit size, and lease terms.
The Selleck Difference
Scott Selleck brings 32+ years of Bergen County real estate experience and dual licensure in both New Jersey (9236275) and Florida (SL3588731). He and The Selleck Group at Keller Williams City Views Realty specialize in guiding long-term NJ homeowners through the full transition: pricing and preparing your NJ home, connecting you with vetted agents in your Florida destination market, and keeping the entire process organized from the first conversation to closing day.
Scott's focus is education-first. Every resource on this site is designed to make a complex, emotional move feel clear and manageable. When you work with him, you are not just getting a transaction - you are getting a partner who has guided hundreds of families through this exact journey.
Is Orlando Right for You?
This town is an excellent match if you're looking for:
Questions About Orlando?
Orlando's diversity of neighborhoods means there's a perfect fit for almost any relocator. Let me help you navigate the options and find the right community.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orlando
Is Orlando just about theme parks?
Not at all. While theme parks are an economic driver, Orlando is a major metropolitan area with a thriving tech corridor, world-class healthcare, diverse suburbs, and a strong job market in aerospace and hospitality.
How much does it cost to live in Orlando?
The median home price is around $425K. The cost of living index is 97 (US average 100), making it one of the more affordable major metros in Florida.
What are the best neighborhoods in Orlando?
Winter Park, Lake Nona, Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Celebration, and the Conway area are popular for their community character. Each offers a different character from historic charm to master-planned innovation.
How far is Orlando from the beach?
Orlando is centrally located about 45 minutes to 1 hour from both the Atlantic coast (Cocoa Beach, Daytona) and the Gulf Coast (Tampa, St. Pete). This central location is a major draw for beach lovers.
What is the commute back to NJ from Orlando?
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a major hub with non-stop flights to Newark (EWR), LaGuardia (LGA), and JFK. It offers the most flight options of any Florida airport.
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