Orlando has a little magic beyond the theme parks. It’s a city where you can build a career, study at a top university, grab great food after work, catch a game, and still have plenty of ways to have fun on the weekend.
For students and young professionals, that makes Orlando a pretty easy city to love…but choosing where to live is a different story. With so many neighborhoods, each offering a different mix of rent, housing, commute, food, and entertainment, finding the right fit can take some work.
So we did the homework for you. These 20 Orlando neighborhoods are ranked by how many Diggz members picked each one as a preferred move-in area¹, with the average monthly room budget² of those members shown for each. The write-ups below also weigh what renters actually care about:
- Affordability
- Location
- Access to schools and major employers
- Housing options and rent
- Entertainment / Things to do
Here’s how the 20 neighborhoods stack up.
Median age and budget reflect a broader Diggz Orlando cohort (members year to date through August 2026) rather than the 232-member ranking window.
Jump to a neighborhood:
- 1. Winter Park
- 2. Alafaya
- 3. Waterford Lakes
- 4. Lake Eola Heights
- 5. College Park
- 6. Thornton Park
- 7. Baldwin Park
- 8. Casselberry
- 9. North Orange
- 10. Azalea Park
- 11. Goldenrod
- 12. Uptown Orlando
- 13. Delaney Park
- 14. Avalon Park
- 15. Union Park
- 16. Colonialtown South
- 17. Parramore
- 18. North Quarter
- 19. South Eola
- 20. Maitland
1. Winter Park
Diggz data: Ranked #1 of 20, chosen by 72 of 232 members (31.0%) with an average monthly room budget of $923.
Winter Park is the most-picked neighborhood among Diggz members for August–October move-ins, just ahead of Alafaya.
Winter Park is one of Orlando’s most popular neighborhoods for renters who want a quieter, more polished setting without being far from downtown. Its main hub, Park Avenue, is lined with boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it easy to grab brunch at The Briarpatch, dinner at Prato, or coffee while wandering through the neighborhood.
For renters, one of Winter Park’s biggest advantages is its mix of housing and price points. You’ll find newer apartments and homes with modern finishes alongside older properties with more character and sometimes lower rents. A two-bedroom apartment averages around $1,700, which becomes more manageable when split between roommates.
The neighborhood is also particularly convenient for students. Rollins College is located here, so student housing and roommate opportunities are plentiful. You can even find off-campus housing near Rollins for around $600 on Diggz, depending on availability.
With its walkable downtown, student population, variety of rentals, and easy access to restaurants and outdoor spaces, Winter Park gives renters plenty to do without feeling like they live in the middle of a tourist district.
Things to do in Winter Park
- Check out the Winter Park Autumn Art Festival and browse work from local artists.
- Explore Park Avenue for boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.
- Take a peaceful walk through Kraft Azalea Garden or Mead Botanical Garden.
2. Alafaya
Diggz data: Ranked #2 of 20, chosen by 67 of 232 members (28.9%) with an average monthly room budget of $925.
Alafaya is a popular choice for renters who want to stay close to Orlando’s colleges without living in the middle of a traditional college town. The neighborhood sits next to the University of Central Florida (UCF) and within easy reach of other major schools, while downtown Orlando is only 12 miles away.
Alafaya has plenty of apartment communities and purpose-built student housing, particularly along the roads surrounding UCF’s main campus. The area is relatively flat, making bikes practical for shorter trips, and UCF’s shuttle system serves many of the student-housing communities around campus.
College sports are a big part of the local scene. On game days, UCF Knights fans head to the Bounce House to cheer on the team, while sports bars such as AC Sky Bar and Tom’s Watch Bar give locals another place to catch the action with friends.
Despite its proximity to campus, Alafaya has a suburban feel, with man-made lakes, residential communities, shopping centers, and plenty of restaurants. According to Zumper, as of Oct 2026, a two-bedroom apartment averages around $1,800 per month, which is an absolute steal for such a prime spot in the city. With Diggz members bringing an average single-room budget of $925, finding a roommate to split that rent should be easy in this student-heavy market.
Things to do in Alafaya
- Catch a UCF Knights sporting event.
- Go kayaking or play volleyball at Lake Claire.
- Explore the trails and recreation areas at Blanchard Park.
3. Waterford Lakes
Diggz data: Ranked #3 of 20, chosen by 58 of 232 members (25.0%) with an average monthly room budget of $978.
Waterford Lakes is one of those neighborhoods where most of your everyday errands can happen within a few minutes of home. The community is centered around Waterford Lakes Town Center, an open-air shopping district with stores, restaurants, a Regal cinema, and entertainment options including PopStroke and Keg Social. Dining options range from quick meals at CAVA and Bento to sit-down spots.
The neighborhood is also a strong fit for active renters. Residents have access to walking paths, tennis and basketball courts, fitness facilities, and plenty of green space. Its location in East Orlando puts it close to the University of Central Florida, making it popular with students looking for larger apartments and shared housing.
Since this is a more ‘premium’ Orlando area, Waterford Lakes has the highest average member budget of the 20 neighborhoods on our list, at $978. That doesn’t mean you can only find high-end options. Rental options range from older, more affordable communities to newer apartment complexes. Current listings on Zumper show two-bedroom apartments starting around $1,600–$2,500 at some properties, while newer communities can cost considerably more.
One drawback is that short-term rentals may be harder to find, as the area has many long-term residents. For students or young professionals planning to stay in Orlando for a while, though, Waterford Lakes offers convenience, space, and an active community.
Things to do at Waterford Lakes
- Shop and dine at Waterford Lakes Town Center.
- Play mini golf at PopStroke.
- Catch a movie at the Regal Waterford Lakes.
4. Lake Eola Heights
Diggz data: Ranked #4 of 20, chosen by 56 of 232 members (24.1%) with an average monthly room budget of $925.
Just east of downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Heights gives renters a quieter residential setting while keeping some of the city’s best restaurants, nightlife, and entertainment within easy reach. The neighborhood is built around Lake Eola, where residents can walk, jog, or cycle along the lakeside paths and enjoy the park’s open green spaces.
Location is a major advantage here. Residents are within about a mile of the Central Business District, Thornton Park, and the restaurants and nightlife of the Mills 50 and Park Lake Highland areas. That makes the neighborhood particularly convenient for young professionals who want to live close to downtown without being surrounded by downtown traffic and activity.
There is no shortage of places to eat nearby, either. Jinya Ramen Bar offers Japanese comfort food, while The Drake serves New American dishes and cocktails. For Italian food, Osteria offers pasta, pizza, and other classic dishes.
Average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment on Zumper is $2,450. Expensive, yes. But if you’re partnering up with a roommate, it’s a great deal.
Things to do in Lake Eola Heights
- Walk around Lake Eola Park and see the iconic swan boats.
- Explore the boutiques and restaurants of nearby Thornton Park.
- Catch a show or event at the nearby Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
5. College Park
Diggz data: Ranked #5 of 20, chosen by 55 of 232 members (23.7%) with an average monthly room budget of $935.
College Park is one of Orlando’s more affordable close-to-downtown neighborhoods, with a walkable commercial strip along Edgewater Drive. Downtown is only a short drive or bike ride away, while Loch Haven Park and its museums, including the Orlando Museum of Art and Orlando Science Center, are nearby.
Edgewater Drive gives residents plenty of everyday options without needing to head downtown. Local favorites include Shakers American Café for breakfast, Christo’s Café for coffee and casual meals, and The Current Seafood Counter College Park for seafood.
College Park members have an average budget of $935, above the $923 average across the 20 neighborhoods on our list, so renters here tend to budget a bit more for this part of the city. Its appeal lies in the mix of walkability, character, and easy access to downtown. However, much of the housing is older, so renters may encounter smaller closets, dated layouts, window-unit AC, and limited off-street parking. If you’re willing to trade newer finishes for location and character, College Park offers plenty of convenience.
Things to do in College Park
- Explore the museums and green spaces at Loch Haven Park.
- Grab coffee and browse local shops along Edgewater Drive.
- Spend an afternoon at Dubsdread Golf Course and the nearby The Tap Room at Dubsdread.
6. Thornton Park
Diggz data: Ranked #6 of 20, chosen by 55 of 232 members (23.7%) with an average monthly room budget of $935.
According to Era Grizzard Real Estate, Thornton Park is THE best neighborhood near downtown Orlando. Lake Eola is right next door, giving residents an easy escape to the park’s walking paths and open green spaces, while downtown is close enough to reach on foot.
The neighborhood’s main commercial stretch along Washington Street and Summerlin Avenue is packed with restaurants, cafes, bars, and local shops. You could easily spend a week eating out without repeating yourself, from the cozy and affordable Lazy Moon to cocktails and American fare at The Stubborn Mule. Cavo’s is another nearby option for Mediterranean-inspired dining. The area’s location also means residents can easily venture into Lake Eola, the CBD, and nearby Mills 50 for even more restaurants and entertainment.
For young professionals, Thornton Park’s walkability is a major draw. You can grab coffee, meet friends for dinner, or head downtown without relying on a car for every outing. The tradeoff is that the convenient location comes with higher rental prices than some neighborhoods farther from downtown.
Things to do in Thornton Park
- Walk the paths and enjoy the swan boats at Lake Eola Park.
- Explore Washington Street’s restaurants and bars.
- Head downtown for events, nightlife, and entertainment.
7. Baldwin Park
Diggz data: Ranked #7 of 20, chosen by 55 of 232 members (23.7%) with an average monthly room budget of $913.
Baldwin Park is one of Central Florida’s most sought-after master-planned communities, built around a walkable town center, lakefront parks, and miles of trails. For renters, one of its biggest advantages is that everyday entertainment doesn’t always require getting in the car. Residents can walk or cycle along the Cady Way Trail, spend time around Lake Baldwin, or head to the Village Center for restaurants, shops, and coffee.
New Broad Street is the neighborhood’s main commercial hub, with restaurants and cafes close to the surrounding apartments and homes. The area also hosts a weekly farmers market, giving residents an easy way to pick up fresh produce and local goods.
Baldwin Park is known for its walkable town center, lakefront parks, and trails, offering plenty of amenities close to home. A two-bedroom apartment averages around $1,900 per month, which works out to about $950 per person when split between two roommates – fairly close to the average Diggz member budget of $913. However, Baldwin Park comes with high demand and some newer apartments can push it well above the neighborhood average.
Things to do in Baldwin Park
- Walk or bike the Cady Way Trail.
- Browse local vendors at the weekly farmers market.
- Spend an afternoon around Lake Baldwin and its lakefront parks.
8. Casselberry
Diggz data: Ranked #8 of 20, chosen by 55 of 232 members (23.7%) with an average monthly room budget of $898.
Casselberry is a Seminole County suburb north of Orlando, with downtown less than a 20-minute drive away in normal traffic. It is a lake-and-park town: Secret Lake Park sits between three lakes with a kayak and canoe ramp, fishing piers, and walking trails, while Lake Concord Park has a splash pad, walking paths, and nearly 40 sculptures.
According to Zumper, as of Oct 2026, a two-bedroom apartment averages around $1,600 per month. Split between two roommates, that works out to about $800 per person, comfortably under the $898 average budget of Diggz members searching here. It is a quieter, more suburban alternative to central Orlando.
9. North Orange
Diggz data: Ranked #9 of 20, chosen by 54 of 232 members (23.3%) with an average monthly room budget of $918.
North Orange is a walkable area just north of downtown Orlando, making it a convenient choice for young professionals who want restaurants, cafes, and everyday amenities within easy reach of the Central Business District.
Housing here tends to be pricier than in some of Orlando’s farther-out neighborhoods. On Zumper, a two-bedroom apartment rents for around $2,399. Bit high? Yes. But splitting that cost with a roommate can make the neighborhood more manageable. The walkability and central location are the biggest draws, while the higher rent is the main tradeoff.
10. Azalea Park
Diggz data: Ranked #10 of 20, chosen by 54 of 232 members (23.3%) with an average monthly room budget of $912.
Azalea Park is an established east Orlando neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes, apartments, and duplexes, giving renters more housing variety than some newer communities. Its location provides relatively easy access to downtown, the airport, and major employment areas, while rents remain lower than many central Orlando neighborhoods. A two-bedroom apartment averages around $1,650 on Zumper, making it a practical option for roommates looking for more space without paying downtown prices.
11. Goldenrod
Diggz data: Ranked #11 of 20, chosen by 54 of 232 members (23.3%) with an average monthly room budget of $870.
Goldenrod is a quiet, established community northeast of downtown Orlando that offers a suburban feel while keeping renters close to Winter Park, UCF, and Full Sail University. The area straddles the Orange-Seminole county line and is centered around commercial corridors such as Aloma Avenue and Goldenrod Road, where residents can find restaurants, groceries, and everyday services.
The neighborhood is also popular with young professionals working in nearby headquarters like Veritas, Mitsubishi, and AAA National.
All in all, Goldenrod is a good fit for students and young professionals who want outdoor space without giving up convenience. The Little Econ Greenway has more than seven miles of trails for walking and biking, while Goldenrod Park Recreation Center has tennis, basketball, pickleball, and fitness facilities. Full Sail University is less than three miles away, and UCF is roughly 10–15 minutes by car.
The main drawback is that Goldenrod is more car-dependent than some of Orlando’s walkable neighborhoods, so having a vehicle can make daily errands much easier.
Things to do in Goldenrod
- Bike or walk the Little Econ Greenway.
- Play pickleball, tennis, or basketball at Goldenrod Park.
- Grab Mexican food and margaritas at Las Carretas Mexican Restaurant.
12. Uptown Orlando
Diggz data: Ranked #12 of 20, chosen by 53 of 232 members (22.8%) with an average monthly room budget of $947.
Uptown Orlando sits just north of downtown and puts renters close to some of the city’s best-known cultural attractions. The neighborhood is next to the Mills 50 District and within easy reach of the Orlando Science Center, Orlando Museum of Art, and Mennello Museum of American Art.
Outdoor options are another advantage, with Lake Ivanhoe Park, Gaston Edwards Park, and the Orlando Urban Trail all nearby. Renters also have plenty of shopping options, from independent boutiques to larger shopping centers such as Colonial Plaza. With its mix of museums, restaurants, parks, and shopping, Uptown appeals to young professionals who want a central location with more to do than just nightlife.
13. Delaney Park
Diggz data: Ranked #13 of 20, chosen by 53 of 232 members (22.8%) with an average monthly room budget of $923.
Delaney Park is a quiet neighborhood just south of downtown Orlando, a good option for renters who want a residential feel without giving up easy access to the city. It is especially convenient for people working at Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) or downtown, with both only a short trip away.
The neighborhood is known for its established homes, leafy streets, and close-knit community. Residents have easy access to Delaney Park itself, a popular spot for walking, jogging, tennis, and other outdoor activities. When you leave the neighborhood and head onto South Orange Avenue, the atmosphere quickly changes. The SoDo District is packed with restaurants, shops, bars, and everyday conveniences, giving residents plenty to do just outside their doorstep.
Culture and entertainment are also close by. The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is only a short drive from the neighborhood, while downtown attractions, restaurants, and nightlife are easily accessible.
For renters, Delaney Park offers a useful middle ground: quieter than downtown but close enough to enjoy everything downtown and SoDo have to offer.
Things to do in Delaney Park
- Catch a performance at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
- Explore the restaurants, bars, and shops along South Orange Avenue.
- Walk, jog, or play tennis at Delaney Park.
14. Avalon Park
Diggz data: Ranked #14 of 20, chosen by 53 of 232 members (22.8%) with an average monthly room budget of $907.
Avalon Park is a master-planned community about 5 miles southeast of UCF, known for its walkable town center. Downtown Avalon Park has more than 150 businesses, including restaurants, bars, and a Publix nearby.
For students, the challenge is finding the right rental setup. Avalon Park has apartments and townhomes, but much of the neighborhood is made up of single-family homes, so large groups looking to split a house may have fewer options than they would closer to UCF. That helps explain its lower ranking despite its convenient location.
Sports and recreation are a major plus. Tanja King Park has four basketball courts, four tennis courts, two racquetball courts, two baseball fields, and a large open field, while Live Oak Park provides another green space for residents.
15. Union Park
Diggz data: Ranked #15 of 20, chosen by 53 of 232 members (22.8%) with an average monthly room budget of $907.
Union Park has the best of both worlds for renters who want a college-town atmosphere without giving up a suburban home base. The neighborhood sits close to three major schools: Valencia College’s East Campus, the University of Central Florida (UCF), and Full Sail University. It’s also about 10 miles northeast of downtown Orlando, putting downtown restaurants, nightlife, and entertainment within driving distance.
Affordability is a major reason students choose Union Park for off-campus housing. Apartments and rental homes can offer more space than many properties closer to downtown, which is especially useful for roommates looking to split the cost. The large student population also means finding other renters to share with can be easier than in more family-oriented neighborhoods.
There’s plenty to do outside class, too. Blanchard Park offers trails, sports facilities, and access to the Econlockhatchee River for outdoor activities. For nights out, students can head to spots such as Knight Library, Bar Louie, and local restaurants and bars around the UCF area.
With three major colleges nearby, more affordable housing, and easy access to outdoor recreation, it’s no surprise Union Park earns a spot on the Diggz top 20.
Things to do in Union Park
- Spend an afternoon exploring Blanchard Park and its trails.
- Go kayaking or enjoy the outdoors along the Econlockhatchee River.
- Meet friends for food, drinks, and games around the UCF area.
16. Colonialtown South
Diggz data: Ranked #16 of 20, chosen by 51 of 232 members (22.0%) with an average monthly room budget of $925.
Colonialtown South is a charming, urban-residential neighborhood with brick-lined streets, restaurants, shops, and easy access to everyday essentials. Residents can walk to grocery options including Publix at Colonialtown and Target East Colonial, while Sprouts Farmers Market is also nearby in Colonial Plaza. Public transportation is readily available, and I-4 and State Road 408 are just minutes away, making commutes around Orlando easier.
17. Parramore
Diggz data: Ranked #17 of 20, chosen by 50 of 232 members (21.6%) with an average monthly room budget of $939.
Parramore is a historic neighborhood on the west side of downtown Orlando. It is the city’s oldest African American neighborhood and its only commercial National Register Historic District. The Wells’Built Museum of African American History and Culture, housed in a 1921 hotel built for African American travelers, is a good place to start learning about the area.
For renters, the appeal is location. The Kia Center, home of the Orlando Magic, and Inter&Co Stadium, home of Orlando City and the Orlando Pride, are both in the area, and Luminary Green Park hosts an evening light show. Creative Village, a mixed-use district with university, office, and residential space, is also part of the neighborhood. Diggz members searching here average a $939 monthly room budget, the third highest on this list.
18. North Quarter
Diggz data: Ranked #18 of 20, chosen by 50 of 232 members (21.6%) with an average monthly room budget of $928.
Lastly, North Quarter is a downtown-adjacent neighborhood with modern apartments, restaurants, bars, and quick access to Orlando’s Central Business District. It’s a practical choice for young professionals who want to be close to downtown without living directly in its busiest core.
Two-bedroom apartments run around $2,354, so splitting the cost with a roommate can make the location more manageable. Nearby SunRail and bus service also give residents alternatives to driving. Its higher rents and urban setting keep it at #18, but for renters who prioritize location and convenience, North Quarter remains a strong option.
19. South Eola
Diggz data: Ranked #19 of 20, chosen by 50 of 232 members (21.6%) with an average monthly room budget of $928.
South Eola is one of Orlando’s most walkable neighborhoods, sitting just south of Lake Eola Park and within easy reach of downtown. Residents have restaurants, coffee shops, Publix, nightlife, and the park all within walking distance, making it particularly appealing to young professionals who want a car-light lifestyle.
Two-bedroom apartments in the broader Lake Eola area rent for around $2,617/month.
20. Maitland
Diggz data: Ranked #20 of 20, chosen by 50 of 232 members (21.6%) with an average monthly room budget of $926.
Maitland sits just north of Winter Park and gives renters a small-town feel with plenty to do. The Maitland Art Center, a 1937 art colony with Mayan Revival buildings, is a National Historic Landmark, and the Enzian Theater, which opened in 1985, is the only full-time independent cinema in Central Florida. Lake Lily Park adds a shaded half-mile trail with an elevated boardwalk.
Maitland also has its own SunRail station, a short walk from downtown Maitland, shopping, dining, and Lake Lily Park. According to RentHop, as of Oct 2026, a two-bedroom apartment averages around $1,840 per month, or about $920 per person with a roommate, in line with the $926 average budget of Diggz members searching here.
Finding Your Place in Orlando
Orlando has a neighborhood for just about every lifestyle, but finding the right home and the right people to share it with is a different story. Whether you’re heading to UCF, starting a new job, or looking for a place closer to the action, the right roommate can make your move a whole lot easier.
Ready to find your Orlando match? Head to Diggz to browse roommate and apartment matches based on your lifestyle, budget, and preferences. Your next neighborhood and your next great roommate could be just a few matches away.
Exploring other markets? See our guides to the best neighborhoods in Miami and Atlanta.
Find rooms available today — plus roommates looking to team up.
Methodology: Diggz ranked Orlando neighborhoods using the 232 Diggz members targeting an Orlando move in August, September, or October 2026 who listed each neighborhood among their preferred move-in locations. Neighborhoods are ordered by number of selections, with ties broken by higher average member budget and then alphabetically. Many neighborhoods are separated by only a few selections, so nearby ranks are close calls. South Orange tied Maitland for 20th place on both measures and was placed after it alphabetically. Orlando neighborhoods with fewer selections than the 20th-ranked one are not shown. Data as of October 2026.
¹ % of members is the share of the 232 Diggz members targeting an Orlando move (August–October 2026) who listed that neighborhood among their preferred move-in locations. Because members can select more than one neighborhood, these percentages don’t sum to 100% across neighborhoods.
² Average monthly room budget is the average budget stated by Diggz members who selected that neighborhood during the same window. It reflects what people say they can spend, not listed rents — the Zumper and RentHop figures cited in some sections are separate, third-party market rent data (as of October 2026).