Living in Central Florida: What New UCF Employees Should Know

Relocating to Central Florida is about much more than finding a home. It is about choosing a community, building a lifestyle, and creating a place where you and your family can thrive.

For many people moving to the Orlando area for a position at the University of Central Florida, one of the biggest surprises is discovering how diverse and vibrant the region truly is.

While Central Florida is known around the world for its theme parks and attractions, residents quickly learn that the area offers outstanding neighborhoods, excellent schools, a strong economy, year-round outdoor recreation, professional sports, performing arts, and an exceptional quality of life.

A Growing and Dynamic Region

The Orlando metropolitan area is one of the fastest-growing regions in the United States.

Major industries include:

• Higher Education
• Healthcare
• Aerospace and Aviation
• Defense Contracting
• Life Sciences
• Simulation and Training Technologies
• Advanced Manufacturing
• Financial Services
• Hospitality and Tourism

In addition to UCF, the region is home to major employers including Orlando Health, AdventHealth, Lockheed Martin, Siemens, Electronic Arts, Disney, Universal, and numerous technology and healthcare organizations.

This economic diversity continues to attract professionals from around the country and contributes to a strong housing market.

Weather and Climate

One of Central Florida's biggest attractions is its climate.

Residents enjoy:

• More than 230 sunny days annually
• Mild winters
• Warm temperatures year-round
• Outdoor recreation during every season

Average temperatures typically range from the low 70s during winter months to the low 90s during summer.

While summer afternoons often bring brief thunderstorms, many residents appreciate the ability to enjoy outdoor activities throughout the year.

Outdoor Recreation

Central Florida offers far more outdoor recreation than many newcomers expect.

Popular activities include:

• Hiking
• Cycling
• Kayaking
• Paddleboarding
• Golf
• Boating
• Fishing
• Wildlife viewing

The region contains hundreds of miles of trails and numerous parks, lakes, rivers, and conservation areas.

Popular destinations include:

• Wekiwa Springs State Park
• Blue Spring State Park
• Black Bear Wilderness Area
• Little Big Econ State Forest
• Seminole Wekiva Trail
• West Orange Trail

Many UCF employees are surprised by the abundance of natural beauty available within a short drive of campus.

Beaches and Weekend Getaways

One of the unique advantages of living in Central Florida is easy access to both coasts.

Atlantic Coast destinations include:

• Cocoa Beach
• New Smyrna Beach
• Daytona Beach

Most are less than one hour from UCF.

On Florida's Gulf Coast, residents enjoy destinations such as:

• Clearwater Beach
• St. Pete Beach
• Anna Maria Island
• Siesta Key

Many Central Florida residents take advantage of weekend beach trips throughout the year.

Dining and Entertainment

The Orlando area has developed into one of Florida's premier dining destinations.

Residents enjoy:

• Fine dining
• International cuisine
• Farm-to-table restaurants
• Local breweries
• Food halls
• Outdoor dining districts

Popular dining destinations include:

• Winter Park
• Baldwin Park
• Downtown Orlando
• Lake Nona
• Winter Garden

In addition to restaurants, residents enjoy concerts, museums, performing arts, festivals, and community events throughout the year.

Professional Sports and Cultural Attractions

Sports fans enjoy access to:

• Orlando Magic (NBA)
• Orlando City Soccer Club (MLS)
• Orlando Pride (NWSL)
• Orlando Solar Bears (ECHL)

The region also offers:

• Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
• Orlando Museum of Art
• Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
• Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra
• Numerous festivals and cultural events

Cost of Living

Compared to many major metropolitan areas, Central Florida remains relatively affordable.

Housing costs vary significantly depending on location, community, and lifestyle preferences.

Communities such as Oviedo, Winter Springs, Waterford Lakes, and Avalon Park often provide strong value, while Winter Park, Baldwin Park, and certain lakefront communities command premium pricing.

Florida's lack of a state income tax is another significant benefit for many professionals relocating from higher-tax states.

Healthcare

Central Florida is home to several nationally recognized healthcare systems.

Major providers include:

• AdventHealth
• Orlando Health
• Nemours Children's Health
• UCF Health
• VA Medical Center

Lake Nona Medical City has become one of the nation's leading healthcare and medical research hubs.

Why So Many UCF Employees Choose Central Florida

For many faculty and staff members, Central Florida offers an ideal combination of:

• Career opportunities
• Strong schools
• Diverse housing options
• Outdoor recreation
• Cultural amenities
• Economic growth
• No state income tax

Whether you are seeking a family-oriented suburban community, a walkable urban neighborhood, a luxury home, or a low-maintenance condominium, Central Florida offers a wide variety of options to match your lifestyle.

Welcome Home

Relocating to a new city is a major decision, but Central Florida continues to attract talented professionals and families because of its quality of life, economic opportunities, and diverse communities.

As a Central Florida REALTOR® who has helped numerous University of Central Florida employees relocate to the area, I understand the challenges and opportunities that come with moving to a new region.

My goal is to help make your transition as smooth, informed, and enjoyable as possible.

Continue exploring our UCF Relocation Resources:

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