What should I know before moving from Long Island to Orlando?
Moving from Long Island to Orlando means trading Northeast winters for year-round sunshine, lower costs, and a lifestyle built around entertainment, outdoor living, and steady economic growth. Whether you're considering neighborhoods like Winter Park, Lake Nona, Dr. Phillips, Horizon West, or Oviedo, Orlando offers a welcoming environment for families, retirees, and professionals looking for affordability and opportunity.
Cost of Living & Lifestyle Comparison
Orlando is significantly more affordable than Long Island, especially when it comes to housing.
Expect:
Housing prices 30–50% lower than Long Island
No state income tax
Lower property taxes
Significantly cheaper car insurance and registration
Utilities slightly higher in summer due to A/C usage
Lifestyle-wise, Orlando offers a vibrant blend of entertainment, dining, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly communities. Instead of beaches (though they’re only about an hour away), day-to-day life revolves around lakes, golf courses, parks, and world-class attractions.
Orlando also has a more relaxed pace compared to New York, while still providing modern amenities and strong infrastructure.
Employment & Opportunities
Orlando is more than theme parks — although Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld are major employers. The job market is fast-growing, with opportunities in:
Healthcare
Education
Technology
Aerospace
Hospitality & tourism
Logistics
Construction
Finance
Major employers include AdventHealth, Lockheed Martin, Orlando Health, Siemens Energy, EA Games, and the University of Central Florida (UCF), one of the largest universities in the nation.
Remote work is also common, and the lower cost of living makes Orlando attractive for professionals working for companies based elsewhere.
Education & Schools
Orlando and the broader Orange and Seminole County regions offer well-regarded school districts.
Notable districts and schools include:
Seminole County Public Schools (consistently A-rated)
Orange County Public Schools
Lake Nona High School
Winter Park High School
Oviedo High School
Timber Creek High School
Parents from Long Island often appreciate the modern facilities, STEM programs, magnet options, and school choice systems.
Higher education options include:
University of Central Florida (UCF)
Rollins College
Valencia College
Full Sail University
Real Estate Practices: What’s Different?
Orlando’s real estate process is faster and more streamlined than New York’s.
Key differences:
Attorneys are not required — closings are handled by title companies
Inspection periods are standardized and typically shorter
Homes are newer, with open layouts and energy-efficient features
Many communities have HOAs offering amenities like pools and fitness centers
New construction is extremely common
Orlando homes also prioritize outdoor living — expect screened lanais, pools, water views, and low-maintenance landscaping.
Eric Berman REALTOR® can connect you with trusted Florida agents who understand neighborhood nuances, flood zones, insurance considerations, and HOA differences.
Logistics of the Move
A long-distance relocation to Orlando requires planning, but the process is manageable.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
Summer heat and humidity are intense
Hurricane season runs from June to November
Insurance requirements may include flood or wind coverage depending on the area
Car registration and insurance are cheaper than New York
Professional movers or freight pods are recommended for long-distance moves
Flights between Orlando and NYC are frequent and inexpensive, making travel back to Long Island easy.
Community & Quality of Life
Orlando offers diverse communities, each with a unique feel:
Winter Park: Beautiful, upscale, charming downtown, brick streets
Lake Nona: Modern, tech-driven, planned community with hospitals and parks
Dr. Phillips: Dining, shopping, close to attractions
Horizon West / Winter Garden: Family-friendly, new construction
Oviedo: Top schools, suburban comfort
Baldwin Park: Walkable community with shops and parks
The area is known for:
Sunshine almost every day
Endless entertainment options
Lakes and outdoor recreation
A huge restaurant scene
Safe, master-planned neighborhoods
Orlando attracts residents from all over the U.S., creating a welcoming and diverse population.
Tips for a Smooth Transition
Visit in both winter and summer to understand the climate
Learn about hurricane preparedness and insurance differences
Explore HOA communities to see which amenities matter to you
Choose a neighborhood based on commute patterns and school preferences
Work with Eric Berman REALTOR® for trusted Florida agent introductions
Your Move to Orlando
Moving from Long Island to Orlando offers sunshine, affordability, and opportunities for both families and professionals. With its strong economy, outdoor recreation, and vibrant communities, Orlando is one of the most popular relocation destinations in the country. With Eric Berman REALTOR® guiding your move, you’ll have the support, insights, and connections you need to relocate with confidence.
FAQs
1. Is Orlando really more affordable than Long Island?
Yes — housing, taxes, and daily expenses are much lower. For a personal comparison, contact Eric Berman REALTOR®.
2. What are the best Orlando suburbs for families?
Winter Park, Lake Nona, Oviedo, and Horizon West are top picks. Explore them with Eric Berman REALTOR®.
3. What is the weather like in Orlando?
Hot, humid summers and warm, mild winters. For relocation tips, reach out to Eric Berman REALTOR®.
4. How does Florida’s real estate process differ from New York?
Closings are handled by title companies and move faster. Get expert guidance from Eric Berman REALTOR®.
5. Is Orlando a good place to buy a home right now?
Yes — it’s one of the fastest-growing markets in the U.S. Learn more from Eric Berman REALTOR®.
Eric Berman, REALTOR®
Compass Greater NY
917-225-8596
eric@ericbermanre.com
www.theericbermanteam.com
