Housing Near UCF: A Guide for Faculty, Staff, and Relocating Professionals

One of the first questions many new University of Central Florida employees ask is:

"What kind of housing is available near UCF?"

The good news is that Central Florida offers a wide variety of housing options to fit virtually every lifestyle and budget. Whether you are seeking a luxury home, family-friendly neighborhood, townhome, condominium, or investment property, there are numerous communities located within a convenient commute of the University of Central Florida.

This guide provides an overview of the most common housing options available to UCF faculty, staff, administrators, researchers, and professionals relocating to the Orlando area.

Housing Options Near UCF

 

Single-Family Homes

Single-family homes remain the most popular choice among UCF employees and their families.

Benefits include:

• Private yards
• Additional living space
• Greater privacy
• Strong long-term appreciation potential
• Ideal for families and pet owners

Popular communities include:

• Oviedo
• Winter Springs
• Waterford Lakes
• Avalon Park
• Baldwin Park
• Lake Nona
• Winter Park

Homes range from modest starter homes to luxury executive residences.

Townhomes

Townhomes have become increasingly popular among faculty members, young professionals, and relocating employees seeking lower maintenance living.

Advantages include:

• Lower maintenance requirements
• Community amenities
• Smaller yards
• Attractive price points
• Convenient locations

Townhomes are particularly common in:

• Avalon Park
• Waterford Lakes
• Baldwin Park
• Lake Nona
• Oviedo

Many townhome communities include pools, fitness centers, and recreational amenities.

Condominiums

Condominiums can be an attractive option for:

• Single professionals
• Couples
• Visiting faculty
• Investors
• Buyers seeking minimal maintenance

Many condominium communities are located near:

• UCF
• Waterford Lakes
• Downtown Orlando
• Baldwin Park
• Winter Park

Condominium ownership typically includes association fees that cover certain exterior maintenance and amenities.

New Construction Homes

Many relocating professionals are surprised by the number of new construction opportunities available throughout Central Florida.

Benefits include:

• Modern floor plans
• Energy-efficient features
• New appliances and systems
• Builder warranties
• Community amenities

Popular areas for new construction include:

• Lake Nona
• Winter Garden
• Clermont
• Horizon West
• Oviedo
• Seminole County

Luxury Homes

Central Florida offers numerous luxury housing opportunities.

Popular luxury markets include:

Winter Park

Known for:

• Historic estates
• Lakefront properties
• Park Avenue lifestyle
• Mature landscaping
• Prestigious neighborhoods

Lake Nona

Known for:

• New luxury construction
• Golf communities
• Medical City
• Modern architecture

Baldwin Park

Known for:

• Walkability
• Upscale homes
• Lakes and parks
• Community atmosphere

Windermere

Known for:

• Luxury estates
• Golf communities
• Butler Chain of Lakes

Housing Costs

Housing prices vary significantly depending on location, home size, condition, and community amenities.

Generally speaking:

More Affordable Options

• East Orlando
• Waterford Lakes
• Avalon Park
• Certain areas of Oviedo

Mid-Range Markets

• Winter Springs
• Oviedo
• Maitland
• Lake Nona

Higher-End Markets

• Winter Park
• Baldwin Park
• Windermere
• Lakefront communities

Market conditions change regularly, so current pricing should always be verified during your home search.

Most Popular Communities for UCF Employees

The communities most frequently selected by UCF faculty and staff include:

Oviedo

Short commute, excellent schools, strong family appeal.

Winter Park

Historic charm, walkability, restaurants, and culture.

Winter Springs

Highly regarded schools and suburban lifestyle.

Baldwin Park

Walkable community with excellent amenities.

Waterford Lakes

Convenient access to UCF and strong value.

Avalon Park

Master-planned community with family-friendly atmosphere.

Lake Nona

New construction, Medical City, and growing professional community.

How I Can Help

Relocating to a new city involves much more than simply finding a house.

As a Central Florida REALTOR® who has assisted numerous University of Central Florida faculty members, administrators, researchers, and staff members, I help clients evaluate neighborhoods, compare housing options, understand market conditions, and make informed decisions based on their goals and lifestyle.

Whether you are searching for a starter home, luxury residence, investment property, or low-maintenance townhome, I can help you identify the communities and housing options that best fit your needs.

Continue exploring our UCF Relocation Resources:

• Best Neighborhoods for UCF Faculty & Staff
• Oviedo vs. Winter Park
• Commute Times to UCF
• Seminole County vs. Orange County Schools
• Living in Central Florida
• Central Florida Relocation Checklist