Potential Move to Orlando - What's it REALLY like? (Tampa: renting, buying a house)

[mmeier]

Hi everyone! I need to begin by saying that I've never even BEEN to Orlando. There's a chance my husband's job might take us there in the near future, which really scares me since I know absolutely nothing about the area. All I really know is that that's where Disney is. Considering that, I would really love some information. We have a 20 month old and another on the way, so decent schools, green space, and generally an area that is more family-oriented is what we are hoping for.

I grew up in Pittsburgh, PA and have lived in Myrtle Beach, SC, Raleigh, NC, and now Charleston, SC. I absolutely hated Myrtle Beach because there was nothing outside of tourism. I love Pittsburgh, Raleigh, and Charleston because they are all more progressive, true 'cities' with lots for everyone. The only city I've been to in Florida is Tampa, and I wasn't certain how I felt about it. It seemed extremely crowded to me.

I know this is a bit general, but I'm hoping for any information I can get. Is Orlando a good place for a young, growing family?

[mongoslade223]

I think you and your family need research these threads, then to come down to Orlando and spend some time getting to know the place. The people on this board are very knowledgeable but they can only speak from their own experiences. They will give you good info but you need to come down and see for yourself before you commit to anything.

[mmeier]

We definitely do not plan to commit to the area until we spend some time there. I was just hoping for kind of an 'intro to Orlando' on this board so I knew what I needed to look into further...

[blueoktober]

Well the only thing I can say is that if you thought Tampa was extremely crowded you will have complete claustrophobia in Orlando. Orlando is packed to the gills. I love it that way though...

Look towards Clermont, Lake Mary or Oviedo. I think those will be the best places for a young family to grow and prosper safely.

[beckycat]

I grew up in PA to, if that matters. I would suggest not living by Disney. You can visit there for "fun" time, it's just not a place to live. Do you like the suburbs better or the country? Do you need to be near everything (stores, etc) or it doesn't really matter? Wil you be buying a house or renting? What price range are you in? Where exactly is your husband's work going to be? It's best to be close to there. Seminole County generally has better schools. Give us more info so we can better help you.

[mmeier]

OK...let's see if I can get you more info. : )

Husband will (potentially) work in Orlando 32808 zip. He will travel all over Orlando for work, however, so we don't necessarily need to be right near his office. I'll initially be at home with our children as we are having baby #2 in September. Since I won't be working right away, it's a nonfactor for me.

We'll most likely buy if we find an area we are 100% sure about. Price range of $225-300k. Suburbs or country? It's hard to say. I love being in the quiet confines of a nicely planned community (trees and all) but still able to get to a grocery store, pharmacy, or Target in 5-10 minutes. We are suckers for green space, and would prefer to walk or bike to a park but don't mind getting in the car and driving if need be.

Kind of a side question - is there a 'true' downtown Orlando?

I told you I was clueless!

[beckycat]

Lake Mary! It has the conveniences you are looking for. The schools are great too.

[blueoktober]

Yes there is a true downtown Orlando with multiple parks, lakes, tree-lined and brick paved streets. Historic homes and neighborhoods with friendly (and active!) people. Most think downtown is scary and have no idea what it is like - which is fine by me since it keeps the area peaceful and quiet at night and on the weekends!

[haulinmover]

I like it. I am from a city, and although not like the North, cultural aspects meet me quite well.

There are tons of things to do, and it is never boring.

As for living...I am content in Remington, which is located in Kissimmee. Now, some say Kissimmee is becoming no good, but I always lived in areas that tend to be a large suburb of a city. For us here, again, we are content. I have a PRican neighbor, Armenian, several american, one from UK and the other from Austria. My neighborshood is quite safe, and my kids run freely in it - along with all other kids.

I have two kids: 13 & 10. Neptune Middle is an excellant school, even though labeled a B....and the A one (Partin) that my son is in, we have huge problems. Now, figure that....so from MY EXPERIENCE...find a school that you like and forget these AB notions. Obviously, you do not want a real inner-city school. I am happier with the B school, than A to be quite frank.

As for things to do...it is what you make of it. I have very nice ppl from all cultures around me...I will be honest....if your the type that looks for a picture perfect neighborhood, etc....then Orlando is rather MIXED UP! Which is what I love about it.

I have to say...it is a good size city...lots of fun stuff...good schools, and you will enjoy it if you have an open mind.

I wish you luck.

[DailyJournalist]

Originally Posted by mmeier

is there a 'true' downtown Orlando?

I told you I was clueless!

I would not call it a "true" downtown. Its more like a very large town center.