50 Things You'll Love About Living Near UCF

Discover Why So Many University Employees Choose to Make Central Florida Home

Relocating to the University of Central Florida is about more than accepting a new position. It's an opportunity to enjoy a region that offers a unique combination of professional opportunity, outdoor recreation, cultural experiences, and year-round activities.

While every person's experience is different, many new residents quickly discover that Central Florida offers an exceptional quality of life.

Here are fifty reasons why so many people enjoy calling the UCF area home.

1. Beautiful neighborhoods with distinct personalities.

2. Outdoor living throughout much of the year.

3. Miles of walking and biking trails.

4. Community parks throughout the region.

5. Diverse housing options.

6. Easy access to Orlando International Airport.

7. A growing and dynamic economy.

8. A welcoming university community.

9. Locally owned restaurants to explore.

10. Excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation.

11. Community festivals held throughout the year.

12. Farmers markets across Central Florida.

13. Beautiful lakes and green spaces.

14. A wide variety of shopping destinations.

15. Active arts and cultural organizations.

16. Sporting events throughout the year.

17. Numerous golf courses nearby.

18. Opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding.

19. Comfortable winter weather.

20. Modern healthcare facilities.

21. Beautiful sunrise walks.

22. Relaxing evenings outdoors.

23. Communities with mature trees and landscaping.

24. New construction communities with modern amenities.

25. Excellent options for hybrid workers.

26. Convenient everyday shopping.

27. Numerous public libraries.

28. Fitness centers throughout the region.

29. Weekend road trips in every direction.

30. Beaches within driving distance.

31. Natural springs throughout Florida.

32. Wildlife and nature preserves.

33. Opportunities for volunteer service.

34. Active neighborhood associations.

35. Outdoor concerts and performances.

36. Year-round gardening opportunities.

37. Scenic residential streets.

38. Diverse architectural styles.

39. Expanding dining options.

40. Continued regional growth and investment.

41. Family-friendly community activities.

42. Public recreation facilities.

43. Easy access to professional services.

44. A strong sense of community in many neighborhoods.

45. Opportunities to meet people from around the world.

46. Excellent places to spend weekends.

47. A variety of lifestyle choices.

48. New experiences waiting to be discovered.

49. A community where many newcomers quickly feel at home.

50. The opportunity to build an exciting new chapter of your life.

Making Central Florida Your Home

No list can fully describe what it's like to live near UCF.

The experience develops gradually.

It happens when you discover your favorite neighborhood restaurant, take an evening walk through your community, host family in your new home, or realize you've developed routines that make Central Florida feel familiar.

Those everyday moments often become the most meaningful part of relocating.

Whether you're joining UCF as a faculty member, administrator, researcher, physician, or professional staff member, I hope your move is the beginning of many rewarding years in Central Florida.

Welcome home.