Hello From
Kissimmee!
“Gateway to the Magic”
Kissimmee
A City in and the County Seat Osceola County, Florida
Kissimmee is a dynamic Central Florida city that blends historic roots with a strong connection to the region’s world-famous tourism industry. Located just south of Walt Disney World and close to major theme parks, Kissimmee has long served as a hub for hospitality, vacation rentals, and family entertainment. At the same time, the city maintains a growing downtown district with local restaurants, community events, and lakefront recreation along Lake Tohopekaliga. Kissimmee is also known for its cultural diversity, strong Hispanic influence, and expanding residential neighborhoods, making it one of the most vibrant and fast-evolving communities in the Orlando metro area.
Historic Downtown Kissimmee, Florida
Photo by VisionsbyAtlee via Canva
Location & Size
Kissimmee is located in central Osceola County in Central Florida and covers roughly 17.5 square miles.
The city sits about 22 miles south of downtown Orlando and approximately 10 miles south of Walt Disney World.
Nearby communities include St. Cloud (about 5 miles east), Celebration (about 10 miles northwest).
Its location along major highways makes Kissimmee a key gateway into the Orlando tourism corridor.
Founded
Kissimmee was founded in the mid-1800s as a small lakeside settlement and transportation center. Its location along Lake Tohopekaliga made it an important hub for cattle ranching, shipping, and early trade routes. The city was officially incorporated in 1883. Over time, Kissimmee transitioned from an agricultural economy into a tourism-driven community as Central Florida’s theme park industry expanded. Despite rapid growth, Kissimmee has preserved elements of its historic downtown and continues to invest in revitalization and infrastructure improvements.
Population
Kissimmee has a population of approximately 79,000 residents, making it one of the larger cities in Central Florida.
Known For
• Proximity to Walt Disney World and major theme parks
• Lake Tohopekaliga and outdoor recreation
• Vacation rental communities and resorts
• Diverse cultural and dining scene
• Historic downtown revitalization
Cost of living
Median Income: $51,277
Median Home Price: $273,900
Median Rent: $1,553
Kissimmee’s cost of living is considered average to slightly below average, especially compared to nearby tourist-heavy areas.
Things to do
• Fish or boat on Lake Tohopekaliga
• Explore downtown Kissimmee shops and restaurants
• Visit local parks and lakefront trails
• Attend festivals and cultural events
• Take short trips to nearby theme parks
Fun Facts
• Lake Tohopekaliga is nationally recognized for bass fishing tournaments.
• Kissimmee was once a major cattle shipping center in early Florida history.
• The city’s population has grown rapidly over the past two decades.
Nearby Cities
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