Orlando skyline overlooking the intercoastal waterway

We’ve compiled a list of the best places to live in Orlando based on neighborhood atmosphere, nearby amenities, rental availability, and affordability relative to other neighborhoods in the area.

The five best neighborhoods in Orlando for renters are:

  1. Downtown Orlando
  2. Baldwin Park
  3. College Park
  4. Delaney
  5. Audubon Park

Downtown Orlando

Aerial view of Lake Eola and the downtown skyline.
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in Orlando: $1,577/month
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in Downtown Orlando: $1,861/month
  • Average 1-bedroom size in Downtown Orlando: 731 square feet

Why Downtown Orlando is good for renters

Downtown Orlando is the city's energetic urban core, packed with high-rise apartments, restaurants, live music venues, and cultural attractions. Renters here enjoy walkable streets, easy access to public transit, and a lively nightlife scene. It’s ideal for anyone looking to be close to work, events, and entertainment without relying on a car.

Very Walkable

Exceptional Public Transit

Moderately Drivable

Fairly Bikeable

80

Downtown Orlando has a walkability score of 80 out of 100

90

Downtown Orlando has a transit score of 90 out of 100

70

Downtown Orlando has a drivability score of 70 out of 100

50

Downtown Orlando has a bikeability score of 50 out of 100

Keep in mind

Rent in this area is significantly higher than the city average, and parking can be limited or costly.

Baldwin Park

The main street of stores in Baldwin Park
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in Orlando: $1,577/month
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in Baldwin Park: $1,889/month
  • Average 1-bedroom size in Baldwin Park: 794 square feet

Why Baldwin Park is good for renters

Baldwin Park offers a balanced blend of city access and neighborhood charm. Designed with walkability in mind, it includes local restaurants, green spaces, lakeside paths, and a tight-knit community vibe. Many rentals here come with top-tier amenities like pools, gyms, and in-unit upgrades.

Moderately Walkable

Minimal Public Transit

Very Drivable

Moderately Bikeable

60

Baldwin Park has a walkability score of 60 out of 100

10

Baldwin Park has a transit score of 10 out of 100

80

Baldwin Park has a drivability score of 80 out of 100

70

Baldwin Park has a bikeability score of 70 out of 100

Keep in mind

Expect to pay above the average for the neighborhood’s modern features and location perks.

College Park

Edgewater Drive is the artery of shops and restaurants in College Park.
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in Orlando: $1,577/month
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in College Park: $1,768/month
  • Average 1-bedroom size in College Park: 738 square feet

Why College Park is good for renters

College Park offers a charming, small-town feel just minutes from Downtown Orlando, making it a convenient yet relaxed place to live. The neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets, local boutiques, and popular dining spots along Edgewater Drive. Renters enjoy a strong sense of community along with easy access to parks like Albert Park and Lake Ivanhoe. Its central location also makes commuting simple, whether you’re heading downtown or elsewhere in the metro area.

Moderately Walkable

Some Public Transit

Exceptionally Drivable

Somewhat Bikeable

60

College Park has a walkability score of 60 out of 100

40

College Park has a transit score of 40 out of 100

100

College Park has a drivability score of 100 out of 100

30

College Park has a bikeability score of 30 out of 100

Keep in mind

While generally more affordable than downtown, prices have been rising due to demand. Inventory can be limited, especially for newer apartment options.

Delaney

Delaney is a quiet community only 5 minutes from Downtown Orlando.
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in Orlando: $1,577/month
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in Delaney: $1,305/month
  • Average 1-bedroom size in Delaney: 685 square feet

Why Delaney is good for renters

Delaney is ideal for renters who want to be close to downtown without living in the middle of the hustle. Known for its historic homes and scenic green spaces, this neighborhood offers a quieter atmosphere with plenty of charm. It’s located near Orlando Health and major employment hubs, making it especially convenient for commuters. Residents also enjoy walkable streets and easy access to Lake Cherokee and nearby parks.

Moderately Walkable

Some Public Transit

Very Drivable

Fairly Bikeable

70

Delaney has a walkability score of 70 out of 100

40

Delaney has a transit score of 40 out of 100

80

Delaney has a drivability score of 80 out of 100

40

Delaney has a bikeability score of 40 out of 100

Keep in mind

Rental options here are somewhat limited, with fewer large apartment communities. Many properties are older, which can mean fewer modern amenities.

Audubon Park

Downtown Orlando can be seen from a bird's eye view in Audubon Park, Florida.
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in Orlando: $1,577/month
  • Average 1-bedroom rent in Audubon Park: $1,844/month
  • Average 1-bedroom size in Audubon Park: 767 square feet

Why Audubon Park is good for renters

Audubon Park is one of Orlando’s most unique neighborhoods, known for its eco-friendly focus and creative local scene. Renters are drawn to Corrine Drive’s collection of independent shops, cafes, and eateries, as well as the neighborhood’s proximity to East End Market. The area offers a laid-back, community-oriented vibe with frequent local events and markets. Its location near Mills 50 and Winter Park adds even more dining and entertainment options within a short drive.

Moderately Walkable

Limited Public Transit

Very Drivable

Moderately Bikeable

60

Audubon Park has a walkability score of 60 out of 100

30

Audubon Park has a transit score of 30 out of 100

80

Audubon Park has a drivability score of 80 out of 100

70

Audubon Park has a bikeability score of 70 out of 100

Keep in mind

The neighborhood’s popularity has driven up demand, so pricing can vary. Public transit options are limited, making a car helpful for getting around.

Ready to Make the Move?

If Orlando has caught your eye, take the next step with Apartments.com! Whether you’re dropping in for a short-term lease or hoping to set down roots, Apartments.com has the tools to help you find the perfect place.

Navigate housing throughout Orlando with our customized search engine and use our customizable filters to narrow your search by price, amenities, and floor plan. Wherever you are and wherever you’re going, the options are endless with Apartments.com.

Methodology

Rent and cost of living data are sourced from the Apartments.com Rent Trends pages and Cost of Living Calculator. Walkability, transit, drivability, and bikeability ratings are sourced from the Apartments.com Area Guides, courtesy of Local Logic.

This article was originally published on November 20, 2025, by Sharon Livsey and has been updated to reflect April 2026 data.

FAQs

Is Orlando a good place to live?

Yes, Orlando is a great place to live for renters who want an active lifestyle with access to entertainment, nature, and year-round sunshine. From bustling nightlife to tranquil parks and lakes, the city offers something for everyone.

Is Orlando an expensive place to live?

Orlando is more affordable than many other major cities, with rent prices and overall cost of living coming in 9.4% below the national average. That said, certain neighborhoods with new developments or premium amenities will be priced higher.

What’s the average rent in Orlando?

The average rent in Orlando is $1,577 per month, as of April 2026. This is 4% below the national average rent of $1,639 per month.

What salary do you need to live in Orlando?

According to our cost of living data, a comfortable salary for a single adult with no dependents to cover housing, utilities, groceries, and goods and services in Orlando would be around $69,000 before taxes.

Discover Your New Home

Discover Your New Home

Helping 100 million renters find their perfect fit.

Chloe Savan

Chloe Savan is a content writer for Apartments.com. With a master’s degree in journalism, four years of professional writing experience, and two years of experience in the residential rental real estate field, she aims to help renters keep up with industry trends and navigate the ins and outs of leases.

Chloe Savan smiling in graduation pictures.
Continue Reading