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