Hello From

Orlando!

 

 

“The Theme Park Capital of the World”

Anna Maria Island

Orlando

A City in and the County Seat of Orange County, Florida

 

Orlando is one of the most recognized cities on the planet, largely because of its theme parks and tourism industry.

But for residents, Orlando is also a growing metropolitan center with diverse neighborhoods, a strong job market, and expanding cultural offerings.  Orlando is also home to The University of Central Florida (UCF), A a major public research university. 
Downtown Orlando, surrounding districts, and nearby lakes create a lifestyle that blends entertainment with everyday living.

Over the past decade, the city has increasingly focused on technology, healthcare, and education, reshaping its identity beyond tourism alone.

Orlando, Florida, aerial cityscape over Lake Eola at dusk.<br />

Orlando, Florida, aerial cityscape over Lake Eola at dusk.

Photo by Sean Pavone via Canva

Location & Size

Orlando is located in Central Florida and covers approximately 113 square miles.

It sits about 85 miles northeast of Tampa, 235 miles south of Jacksonville, and is surrounded by cities including Winter Park (4 miles north), Altamonte Springs (12 miles north), and Kissimmee (22 miles south).

Founded

Orlando began in the mid-1800s as a military outpost during the Seminole Wars.  Officially named in 1857, with several theories existing regarding the specific origin and was later incorporated as a city in 1875.  The most common story is that it was named after a soldier, Orlando Reeves, who died in 1835 during a skirmish with Seminole Indians.

Originally supported by citrus farming and railroads, the city’s trajectory changed dramatically with the opening of Walt Disney World in 1971. That single development reshaped Orlando’s economy, population, and global recognition. Today, Orlando continues to evolve as one of Florida’s fastest-growing metro areas.

ORLANDO WEATHER

Population

Approximately 320,000 residents.

Known For

  • Orlando is known as the “Theme Park Capitol of the World” and home to Walt Disney World (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, etc.), Universal Studios, Seaworld, and LEGOLAND Florida.

  • Attractions and Entertainment such as International Drive, the Orlando Eye, SeaWorld, and numerous waterparks.

  • Professional sports teams including the Orlando Magic (NBA), Orlando City SC (MLS) Soccer, and the Orlando Solar Bears (ECHL) hockey.

  • Growing tech and healthcare sectors.

  • Lakes, parks, and nearby natural springs, lakeside trails, and top-tier golfing.

  • Cultural venues such as The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and the Orlando Museum of Art.

  • Shopping and Dinning as the High-end shopping at The Mall at Millenia, and shopping and dining at Disney Springs.

Cost of living

Median Income: $59,000

Median Home Price:  $375,000

Median Rent: $1,950/month

Orlando’s cost of living is average to slightly high compared to other Florida cities, largely due to housing demand.

Things to do

  • Visit one the numerous theme parks and attractions.

  • Explore downtown areas and attractions for shopping and dinning.

  • Visit International Drive.

  • Attend sporting events and concerts.

  • Enjoy lakes and city parks.

  • Visit museums and performing arts venues.

Fun Facts

  • There are several different theories regarding the specific origin of the city name, Orlando, with no official record.
    • Orlando Reeves: The most common story is that it was named after a soldier, Orlando Reeves, who died in 1835 during a skirmish with Seminole Indians.
    • “Orlando’s Grave”: Early settlers reportedly found a tree marking a grave with the name “Orlando,” which led to the area being called “Orlando’s Grave,” eventually shortened to Orlando.
    • Shakespearean Influence: Some theories suggest Judge James Speer, who helped organize Orange County, named the city after the character in Shakespeare’s As You Like It.
  • Gatorland (opened 1949) as its first attraction, rather than Disney, which arrived in 1971.

  • Orlando has more than 100 lakes within city limits.

  • The iconic Lake Eola in downtown is actually a giant sinkhole, plunging 80 feet at its deepest point.

  • The region welcomes tens of millions of visitors annually.

  • The Orlando Magic NBA team was almost named the “Orlando Juice”.
  • The city is home to the world’s largest McDonald’s, featuring a 19,000 sq. ft. play area and unique menu items.
  • The Backstreet Boys were named after the “Backstreet Market,” a flea market in Orlando.
  • The city is a major convention destination.

Nearby Cities

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