Orlando, Florida, is a warm city with a lot to offer. From dining in themed restaurants to exploring nature in all its glory, the Orlando area has something for everyone. Central Florida has numerous retirement communities, and of course, theme parks galore to keep visiting friends and family occupied.
However, with its humid, subtropical climate and high crime rates, Orlando may not be the best choice for some people. Before packing your bags and heading for the Disney capital of the world, take some time to read these pros and cons of retiring in Orlando.
Pros of Retiring in Orlando
Pro #1: The City Disney Built
Walt started something magical with Disney, and Orlando became home to Disney World in 1971. If you have grandchildren, this could be a major perk (or a headache, depending on how you feel about visiting theme parks). Here’s a bonus: if you become a Florida resident, Disney World offers you a discount.
Pro #2: Winter Is Not Coming
Hang up your shovel for good if you choose Orlando as your retirement destination. The chances of seeing snow here are minimal. In fact, the average temperature in Orlando is a balmy 73.35 degrees Fahrenheit. You’ll rarely see winter lows below 50 degrees. Do you favor sandals over boots? If so, retiring in Orlando may be the right choice for you.
Pro #3: Feeling Outdoorsy?
Orlando isn’t just about Mickey Mouse and his crew. It is home to many natural attractions fit for a person who loves the outdoors. For hiking, there are many lakes and rivers to explore. Take a stroll around Lake Eola Park or hike the trails at Tibet-Butler Preserve. More into golf? The Orlando metro area has more than 170 golf courses.
Pro #4: Retirement Communities Galore
Since the cost of living is reasonable and great attractions abound, Orlando has become a popular retirement location. Because of this, there are numerous senior housing communities in Orlando and the surrounding cities. The full range of senior living options exists here: apartments, houses, independent living, assisted living, continuing care, and memory care.
Cons of Retiring in Orlando
Con #1: Plenty of Sun, Little Sand
If your favorite pastimes include sprawling on a beach towel or building elaborate sandcastles, be aware that you’ll have to drive about an hour to get to the coast if you live in Orlando. If you’d prefer to be closer to ocean waves and sand, you might want to consider a beachside location like Daytona Beach or Clearwater instead.
Con #2: Crime in the City
Crime is high in Florida, and this is especially true in Orlando. In fact, Orlando has one of the highest crime rates in the nation. Violent crime is twice the national average and is 50 percent higher than New York City.
Con #3: It’s Raining, It’s Pouring!
Although sunny and warm for most of the year, Orlando has a subtropical climate -- meaning you'll see plenty of rainy weather, especially during the summer months. But while in many places rainy days are just that -- days -- Florida tends to have rainy hours. This means a quick, sudden downpour around 4 p.m. every afternoon that disappears as quickly as it appeared.
The humidity in Orlando is worth mentioning, since the average is 75 percent -- and it rarely falls below 50 percent. If you're coming from a dryer climate, this will take some getting used to. However, if you aren't bothered by dampness and don't mind getting caught in sudden squalls every now and again, the Orlando sunshine might be worth a little rain and humidity.
Ready to retire in Orlando?
Orlando should be your retirement list if you enjoy the sun, won’t miss the beach, and if golf is the name of your game. However, if you can’t stand humidity, love to stick your toes in the sand, or worry about crime, perhaps another area of Florida will suit your needs more.
