Beyond the Sunshine

5 Surprising Truths About

Moving to Central Florida

The promise of Central Florida is a powerful one. Visions of year-round sunshine, world-famous attractions, and a relaxed, outdoor-centric lifestyle draw tens of thousands of new residents each year. The idea of trading snow shovels for sandals and state income tax returns for extra savings is undeniably appealing. But is the postcard image the full picture?

Beyond the theme parks and palm trees lies a complex and dynamic region with its own unique economic realities and lifestyle trade-offs. For anyone seriously considering a move, understanding the data behind the dream is crucial for making an informed decision. This article cuts through the hype to reveal five impactful, data-backed takeaways from recent economic and housing reports that every potential resident should know before packing their bags.

1. The "No Income Tax" Perk Comes With a Major Asterisk

One of Central Florida's most significant financial draws is clear: Florida has no personal state income tax. This is a major benefit for individuals, families, and businesses, allowing residents to keep more of their income.

However, this advantage comes with a critical counterpoint. According to the Florida Tax Guide, while the state forgoes an income tax, property taxes are assessed at the local level and can be "some of the highest in the country." This financial reality is a crucial part of the state's tax structure. To help homeowners manage this cost, the state offers a key benefit known as the Homestead Exemption. According to the Florida Department of Revenue, this exemption can be up to $50,000. The first $25,000 of the exemption applies to all property taxes, including school district taxes, while the additional exemption applies only to non-school taxes. This trade-off—no income tax in exchange for potentially high property tax—is a fundamental aspect of budgeting for a move to the region.

2. The Job Market is Much More Than Mickey Mouse

It's impossible to discuss Central Florida's economy without acknowledging the massive role of tourism and hospitality. With Walt Disney World Resort employing over 70,000 people and Universal Orlando Resort employing 26,800 people, the industry is a dominant force. But the data reveals a surprisingly diverse and robust economic landscape that extends far beyond entertainment.

Recent business reports show significant strength in several other high-skill, high-wage sectors. The region is a major hub for:

• Aerospace & Defense: Lockheed Martin is a major employer with a workforce of 14,000.

• Healthcare: AdventHealth Orlando and Orlando Health are cornerstones of the regional economy.

• Technology: Companies like Siemens Energy and video game developer EA Tiburon have a substantial presence.

• Education: The University of Central Florida (UCF) is one of the largest universities in the nation and a significant employer.

Crucially, the highest-paying industries in the Orlando area are not tourism-related. The top three sectors by average annual salary are Management of Companies & Enterprises, Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services, and Finance & Insurance. This diverse economic foundation provides resilience and makes Central Florida an attractive destination for professionals across a wide spectrum of industries.

3. The Housing Market is a Tale of Two Realities: Renting vs. Buying

The Central Florida housing market presents a complex picture, with distinct trends for buyers and renters. According to a recent Comprehensive Housing Market Analysis from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), these two markets are currently moving in opposite directions.

The sales market is currently defined as "balanced." Despite a 9% decline in total home sales over the last year, the average home sales price actually increased by 5% to $449,200. This pressure, combined with other factors, has contributed to a decline in the region's homeownership rate, which now stands at 59.0%.

In contrast, the rental market is considered "slightly soft." Data shows that the average monthly apartment rent declined by 2% to $1,786, and the apartment vacancy rate has risen to 9.9%. For anyone relocating, this data presents a surprising insight. While the ultimate goal for many is to buy a home, the current market dynamics suggest that renting may offer more immediate flexibility and financial value in one of the nation's most popular relocation destinations.

4. World-Class Healthcare and Education Thrive Here

Challenging the stereotype of Florida as a destination solely for vacation or retirement, Central Florida is home to nationally recognized institutions in both healthcare and education that attract families and professionals.

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The region's healthcare is top-tier. In its recently released 2025-2026 ratings, U.S. News & World Report named AdventHealth Orlando the No. 1 hospital in Florida. Even more impressively, it was one of only 20 hospitals nationwide placed on the Best Hospitals Honor Roll, putting it in the top 1% of the more than 4,000 hospitals evaluated."These rankings reflect the remarkable care our team and physicians provide every patient, every day – bringing our mission to life through clinical excellence and whole-person care."

The educational landscape is equally strong. In addition to being home to the University of Central Florida (UCF), one of the nation's largest universities, the region boasts some of the best K-12 school districts in the state. Seminole County Public Schools, which serves one of the four counties that make up the official Orlando metro area, is ranked the #2 best school district in Florida. One of its standout schools, Hagerty High School, is ranked #27 in the state with student proficiency rates around 80% in key subjects. This combination of elite healthcare and high-quality education makes the area a powerful draw for those prioritizing well-being and family development.

5. "Central Florida" is a Sprawling Region of Diverse Lifestyles

The concept of "Central Florida" is far broader than just the Orlando metro area. The official Orlando Housing Market Area (HMA), as defined by HUD, encompasses four distinct counties: Lake, Orange, Osceola, and Seminole. This large geographic footprint contains a wide array of communities, each with its own unique character.

Relocation guides highlight the historic charm of Winter Park, the lakeside serenity of Windermere, and family-friendly enclaves like Oviedo. This variety ensures that new residents are not limited to a single type of suburban experience. Broadening the scope even further, Polk County offers a different flavor of Central Florida life, boasting 554 freshwater lakes, expansive nature parks, hiking trails, and even the Southeast's largest dude ranch. This regional diversity allows newcomers to find a community that truly matches their desired lifestyle, whether it's urban, upscale suburban, or more rural and nature-focused.

Conclusion - Your Next Chapter in the Sunshine State

Moving to Central Florida is an exciting prospect, but a successful transition involves looking beyond the surface-level appeal of sunshine and attractions. Understanding the real-world trade-offs of its tax structure, the surprising diversity of its job market, and the nuanced realities of its housing situation is key. The region offers a rich tapestry of lifestyles, world-class institutions, and dynamic opportunities for those who know where to look.

By grounding the dream in data, you can approach your potential move with clarity and confidence. The opportunities are real, but they are best seized by those who are well-informed. Now that you've seen the data behind the dream, what will your Central Florida story look like?