Ever hear the saying, “If one more person moves to Florida, the whole state is going to sink?” The Sunshine State is indeed very popular, but it’s not going to disappear any time soon. Too many people relocating to Orlando is just a myth! Why is Florida, particularly Orlando, so famous? Is it the weather, outdoor activities, higher education facilities, proximity to theme parks and beaches, or a great place to retire? It’s all of those, plus the fact that Orlando is almost centrally located in the state. It’s the hub to all things fabulous! Here’s a look at the major cities close to Orlando.
The largest city in Florida is Jacksonville. This city near the Atlantic Ocean and the border of Georgia offers something for everyone. There are jobs for professionals, top-rated schools for families, and retirees will find many affordable neighborhoods with reasonably priced housing. Jacksonville is also home to Florida’s third largest seaport.
Gainesville, a city in northern Florida, is known for the University of Florida. Set on a sprawling campus, the Florida Museum of Natural History has ethnographic and fossil exhibits. This includes the Butterfly Rainforest, which is home to hundreds of free-flying birds and butterflies. Other cultural attractions are the Harn Museum of Art and the Matheson History Museum. Gainesville is also known for the preservation of its historic buildings and the beauty of its natural surroundings. This town has numerous parks, museums, and lakes that provide fun and entertainment to thousands of visitors each year. Moving to Orlando is lovely if your child attends this local university.
Across the state is Tampa. Coincidentally it is the largest city in the beautiful Tampa Bay Area. This tropical city is a true urban paradise for students, young professionals, and retirees. Tampa boasts year-round sunny weather, with a bustling downtown and a vibrant nightlife scene. In addition, residents and visitors can take advantage of the city’s Riverwalk. It’s a pedestrian-friendly path connecting several attractions, including the Aquarium and the Tampa Bay History Center.
Close to Tampa lies St. Petersburg. St. Petes averages 360 days of sunshine a year, making it one of the sunniest cities in America. Besides the year-round sunshine, people love St. Petersburg, given its close proximity to the ocean. Watersports are readily available, and there are also many great parks and restaurants to spend your time talking to your Orlando relator.
Traveling about 4 hours south, Miami has stunning beaches and an exciting social scene. It’s one of the liveliest places to live! Miami is also the fourth-largest urban area in the country and attracts students, families, young professionals, and retirees. This diverse place is also home to a vibrant art scene, represented by several arts districts, art shows, galleries, and museums throughout the city.
Hialeah is a popular Miami suburb that is home to the highest percentage of Cubans and Cuban-Americans in the U.S. Many families are drawn to this suburb, with its low crime rate and affordable real estate, just like the real estate in Orlando. In addition, this city is home to some of the best Cuban restaurants.
So much more than a Spring Break stop, Fort Lauderdale is home to some of the most beautiful beaches globally. Plus, many other attractions include world-class museums and exciting nightlife. Retirees who love boating and fishing will find plenty to do here. So, relocate to Orlando and enjoy your retirement too!
On Florida’s Treasure Coast, Port St. Lucie has quickly become one of the most popular places. Compared with its neighbor, Palm Beach County, Port St. Lucie offers a more affordable lifestyle in safe and clean neighborhoods. There’s also plenty of fabulous outdoor destinations and activities that include beautiful golf courses and tropical, sandy beaches.
For those who search for the idyllic beach lifestyle will find it in Cape Coral. Beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, wildlife, and canals are all located in this southwest Florida city. Enjoy outdoor parks as well as recreation centers dotted throughout this paradise.
Tallahassee is the state capital and home to Florida State University and Florida A&M. This town on the panhandle is the home base for thousands of college students and is the ultimate college town. Though the city crawls with young people, it’s also an excellent place for families and professionals.
If you want to be the center of it all, relocation to Orlando is definitely for you! With Orlando real estate moving quickly, you’ll want to seek out a qualified realtor in Orlando to help you find the house of your dreams!