Moving to Orlando with family – is it a good idea?
Orlando is Florida’s largest inland city, so it makes sense that it has a lot to offer. Its metropolitan area has a population of around 2.5 million people, out of which some 280,000 people live in Orlando city. It is considered to be “The Theme Park Capital of the World” and in 2018 it drew more than 75 million visitors. If you are thinking about moving to Orlando with family, here are some facts that you should know about the city.
The weather
Orlando has a humid, subtropical climate which means that it will probably take you some three weeks to adapt to the summer heat. There are two seasons here: a hot and rainy season, lasting from May until late September, and a warm and dry season from October through April.
The job market for people moving to Orlando with family
The unemployment rate in Orlando is low. However, the average salary here is somewhere about 3,000 USD (after taxes) which is 22% less than the national average. That is because many people work in theme parks and hotels. At the same time, the city is known as a center for innovation in digital media, aviation, and software design. The television, film, and video-game industries are largely present, so maybe you will be able to find a higher-paid position there. The healthcare industry offers a lot of jobs too.
Housing in Orlando
Home prices in Orlando are a bit higher than you would expect, but it all depends on the part of the city you choose. The renting prices usually go from 1,200 to 1,400 USD. Since the full list of neighborhoods in Orlando seems endless, here are some of the most popular city parts that people moving to Orlando with family often choose:
- College Park – Despite its name, it is the place that welcomes more people moving to Orlando with family than college students;
- Audubon Park Garden District
- Lake Eola Heights
- Thornton Park
Whichever neighborhood you pick, make sure that you hire professionals to do the relocation for you.
Education
Orlando residents take pride in their educational opportunities. They say that even public schools are amazing here. When it comes to higher education facilities, there is no arguing about Orlando having it all. It is the home of the University of Central Florida, the second-largest university in the USA. There are also many educational options for those seeking undergraduate and evening schools.
Entertainment for those moving to Orlando with family
As you would expect, the options for entertaining in Orlando are endless. The city is home to Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando, Kennedy Space Center, SeaWorld Orlando, Legoland and so much more. Needless to say, Orlando is one of the world’s most visited tourist destinations. Its famous attractions are the backbone of its tourism industry.
Traffic in Orlando
If you are considering moving to Orlando with family, you should bear in mind that this is not a bike or pedestrian-friendly city. Driving around during tourist seasons can be quite frustrating since the rush hour lasts all day long. Public transportation offers buses and trains, so it might be a better option if you are not fond of traffic.