When people think of Orlando, many immediately think of vacationing to the famous theme parks, so it may be surprising to find that more than 2 million people actually live in the greater Orlando area year-round.
But before Orlando grew to be what it is today, it has experienced many changes throughout its nearly 200-year history. Let's take a look at how this famous Central Florida town grew to the Real Estate hotspot it is today, and why so many people are flocking to find their very own home for sale in Orlando, Florida (hint: it's for more than the resident discount to the theme parks!).
A Glimpse at the Past
The two biggest industries in Central Florida in the 19th century were cattle breeding and cotton growing. However, in the 1880s, pioneers began growing citrus trees and once it became
The first city rail line was built in 1881 and an influx of new fruit growers came to the area. By 1886, Orlando had become a home to many individuals and families – the streets were now filled with churches, office buildings, and hotels to house the tourists already starting to visit from the North.
Into the Present
Approximately 85 years later, Walt Disney World construction began and the city quickly became a world-class tourist site as each additional park, like Sea World, the Epcot Center, and Disney MGM Studios (now Hollywood Studios) were created.
Notably, moving in the 21st century, Orlando leaders have worked hard to diversify the Orlando economy in order to become a leader in innovation and the economy, creating high-tech, high-wage careers for residents in cutting edge industries such as digital media and technology, life sciences, simulation, and training.
Orlando has also transformed into one of the busiest cities in America for conferences and conventions as the Orange Country Convention Center, opened in the 1980s, is the second-largest convention facility in the United States. Home to the largest university campus in the United States, Orlando's University of Central Florida hosts almost 72,000 young minds.
From the history remnant in the area's downtown district, arts and culture in nearby communities like Winter Garden and Winter Park, unmatched character in boroughs like College Park, Mills 50, and Audubon Park, or world-class entertainment in neighborhoods such as Dr. Phillips, and beyond, Orlando continues to thrive and offer unique experiences and living options for locals.
Living in Orlando Today
In 2017, Forbes Magazine ranked Orlando as the number two fastest-growing metro area in the country. The list includes factors such as population, employment, wages, economic output, and home values of the 100 largest metropolitan areas in the United States. This ranking is further evidence of the opportunity home buyers are finding here in Orlando and what is making it such a sought-after place to live.
Whether you're looking for a new construction home, life in the heart of the downtown area, a suburb home near some of the world's most popular attractions, or to be driving distance to a Florida beach, the Orlando area offers some of the most sought-after lifestyle options and Real Estate to choose from.
A beautiful climate, world-class activities, and sunny beaches coupled with employment opportunities and popular housing options are some of the many reasons Orlando, Florida is a Real Estate market for investors and homeowners to keep their eye on.
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