It may not be the capital city of Florida, but Orlando might just be the best-known destination in the Sunshine State. Right in the middle of the state, Orlando is home to iconic theme parks, and countless travelers flock there every year. While Orlando can be a spectacular place for a visit, it makes an even better place to call home.
The city of Orlando, which could also be accurately be described as a metropolis, has a city proper population of around 265,000. However, the Greater Orlando Area is home to a significantly larger population of over 2,000,000. Orlando serves as the seat of Orange County.
Oddly enough, the city was first known as Jernigan, until the name was changed to Orlando in 1857. Archeological tribes point to Orlando being the home of Seminole tribes prior to European settlement in the middle of the sixteenth century.
Orlando and its School System
Orlando's public schools are operated within the Orange County Public School System. This system is one of the nation's largest, serving nearly 190,000 students between kindergarten and high school. Many of these schools are highly ranked, and some focus on the arts as well as STEM (science, technology, engineering, math). In addition to 184 public schools, Orlando also offers plenty of options for private schooling.
The Endless Attractions of Orlando
When many people think of Orlando, the first things that come to mind are the city's world-class attractions. It is certainly true that in this particular department, Orlando has a lot to offer!
Beyond the theme parks, however, Orlando also boasts incredible nightlife, some of the best dining in the Sunshine State, unparalleled medical facilities and several large and even international airports. Orlando is home to virtually anything you could hope for, making it a remarkable place to live.
Why Residents Love Living in Orlando
With so many excellent attractions and a topnotch school system, it is clear that Orlando is a desirable destination. However, the appeal goes beyond even those factors. To start, home prices in Orlando are far less than in most comparable cities across the country, helping every dollar to go further. Orlando is also home to an excellent public transportation system, both for sightseeing and commuting, which makes getting around a breeze. There is no end to the employment opportunities in and around the city, and the booming tourism industry means that jobs are readily available in many areas and fields.
With so much to love about Orlando, it makes sense to take a closer look at the city. Whether you're in the market for a condo, a townhouse or a single family home to raise your children, you will find it all within Orlando, Florida.