Bronze statue of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse in front of Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom, a top tourist destination for families and apartment renters near Orlando.

When you think of Orlando, your mind is immediately drawn to its world-class theme parks, dripping with livelihood and childlike wonder! But ask any local, there’s more to this city than pixie dust and princess tiaras. Orlando is a city of lakeside charm and international food adventures. This city is perfect for renters with a creative soul and a love for wonder!

Iconic Ferris wheel at ICON Park in Orlando with palm trees and visitors below, an entertainment hub popular with apartment residents in the area.

Orlando at a Glance

Being that the city is the home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studies, and some of the most visited attractions on Earth, it makes sense many are drawn to the city. Locals, however, know the real magic lives within each of its unique neighborhoods, quaint coffee shops, and creative crooks and crannies that aren’t depicted on park maps.

Aerial view of Wekiwa Springs' crystal-clear swimming hole surrounded by lush forest, a natural getaway close to apartment living in Central Florida.

Theme Parks Are Just the Beginning

Orlando is absolutely, however, the theme park capital of the world. It’s home to Disney, Universal, SeaWorld and more. Locals have access to discounted resident passes, late night firework displays, seasonal food festivals, and other perks of park-adjacent living. Even if you’re not a serial park hopper, the parks help shape some of the culture by hosting big events, offering seasonal work, and overall—a high energy vibe!

Local street artist using fire to create a wood-burned portrait at an urban art fair, highlighting vibrant culture near downtown apartment communities.

A Food Scene That’s Grown Up

Are you looking for Michelin Stars? How about international cuisine? Not to worry—Orlando’s got you covered. Locals love omakase, tamales, and buzzy brunches scattered locally. Not to mention year-round farmers’ markets, food trucks, and craft coffee culture!

Exterior of Winter Park High School with welcome sign and brick facade, highlighting quality education options near apartment rentals in Winter Park, Florida.

Lakeside Life in the City

Orlando’s also a city of lakes, trails, and canopies of shaded oak. There are beautiful spots to watch the sunset on Lake Eola, bike loops for days on Lake Baldwin, and paddleboarding galore on Lake Ivanhoe! Renters in search of a water-adjacent lifestyle can find solace in the lakes of Orlando.

Front view of a suburban stucco house with terracotta roof and brick driveway in Winter Park, ideal for families seeking homes near Orlando apartment communities.

Creative Culture with Local Spark

Murals, music venues, museums! Orlando has its own creative kingdom, with must sees like the CityArts Downtown, Timucua live shows, and other immersive exhibits at the Orlando Science Center. Creativity flows through Orlando, offering renters access to shows, galleries, creative meetups and more! Rent around Ivanhoe Village for easy access to some of the vibrance of Orlando’s art and culture scene.

Many of Orlando’s neighborhoods radiate artistic energy! It’s hard to narrow it down, but here are just a few that truly blend culture, color, and community!

  • Mills 50: A vibrant hub of murals, fusion eats, and indie boutiques! Perfect for renters who love a little bit of local flair and eclectic energy. 1BR average rent: $1,710
  • Ivanhoe Village: Offers lakeside charm paired with vintage shops, galleries, and creative events spilling off the calendar and into Gaston Edwards Park. 1BR average rent: $2,000
  • Downtown Orlando: Walkable access to performances at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, flagship museums, and the bustle of an urban landscape. 1BR average rent: $1,790

These, and all the neighborhoods in Orlando, are more than just places to live. They’re front row seats to the creative beat of the city of Orlando!

Disney Inspired, Never Disney Defined.

Orlando offers you quick access to the Magic Kingdom on a Wednesday, but you also can experience so much more. The magic is palpable but balanced with some real-world opportunities for firsthand experiences into diverse cultures, a rising job market, and many vibrant communities. Whether you’re more drawn to the magic or the farmers markets, Apartments.com is there to help you browse listings with smart, interactive search tools and get you closer to renting your ticket into the local magic of Orlando.

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Quincy McCoade

My name is Quincy; I'm an avid writer & have lived in apartments for years! I'm currently in my final year of school & love exploring new cities!

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