Orlando-Kissimmee Area, FL 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

For more information about the Orlando-Kissimmee area, and its offerings, here are some local website resources:

• Orlando Sentinel: The Orlando Sentinel is a reliable news source covering local events, community updates, and lifestyle features in the Orlando-Kissimmee area. 
• Experience Kissimmee: Experience Kissimmee's official website provides information on attractions, dining options, and outdoor activities in the Kissimmee area, helping visitors and potential residents explore the region's offerings. 

Orlando Area Affordability and Cost of Living 

The Orlando-Kissimmee area offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to some other metropolitan areas in the United States. The cost of living compared to the national average varies by exact location but Orlando is 3.3 percent higher while Kissimmee is 2.4 percent lower. Housing costs are the primary differentiator in the area with home prices more expensive closer to the city and lower in more rural or small town areas. However, it's important to note that the entire area is still below the national average for median home costs. Groceries, healthcare, and utilities are right around the national average but transportation is between 10 to 13 percent higher than average.

Florida is known for its tax-friendly environment. The state does not impose a personal income tax, including on Social Security benefits and other retirement income. Florida also does not have an estate tax or inheritance tax, making it an attractive option for retirees seeking to preserve their assets. Florida state tax is 6 percent although individual counties may add additional tax. Property taxes vary by exact location, for information on specific tax rates and requirements, individuals can refer to the Florida Department of Revenue's website. There are also exemptions for seniors who meet income criteria.  

Orlando Area Climate and Geography 

The Orlando-Kissimmee area enjoys a subtropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine throughout the year. Winters are mild and comfortable, with average low temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to low 60s, while highs reach the mid-70s to low 80s. Summers in the Orlando-Kissimmee area are hot and humid, with average low temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s and highs reaching the 90s or occasionally higher. Humidity levels can be quite high, typically ranging from 70 to 90 percent. Thunderstorms are common during the summer, providing some relief from the heat and adding a dramatic touch to the tropical climate. The region experiences an average annual rainfall of around 50 inches with the wettest months occurring during the summer.

The area is characterized by lush landscapes, dotted with lakes and wetlands, which contribute to the natural beauty and recreational opportunities. It is just an hour's drive to the Atlantic Coast and about 3 hours to the Gulf of Mexico allowing residents to enjoy easy access to stunning beaches. The area boasts numerous parks and nature preserves, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird-watching, manatee sightings, and boating.

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment Near Orlando Area 

The Orlando-Kissimmee area has more to offer than just theme parks. Residents can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities, cultural events, and entertainment options. 

Golf and Racquet Sports

• Waldorf Astoria Golf Club in Orlando
• Falcon's Fire Golf Club in Kissimmee
• ChampionsGate Golf Club in Davenport
• Kissimmee Lakefront Park Tennis Courts in Kissimmee

Hiking, Biking, and Boating

• West Orange Trail in Winter Garden
• Tibet-Butler Preserve in Orlando
• Lake Tohopekaliga Loop Trail in Kissimmee
• Lake Underhill Park in Orlando

Museums and Historical Sites

• Orlando Museum of Art in Orlando
• Orange County Regional History Center in Orlando
• Osceola County Welcome Center and History Museum in Kissimmee
• Mennello Museum of American Art in Orlando

Performing Arts

• Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando
• Bob Carr Theater in Orlando
• Osceola Arts in Kissimmee
• Mad Cow Theatre in Orlando

Shopping

• The Mall at Millenia in Orlando
• Orlando International Premium Outlets in Orlando
• The Loop in Kissimmee
• Winter Park Village in Winter Park

Parks and Gardens

• Lake Eola Park in Orlando
• Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando
• Gatorland in Orlando
• Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens in Sanford

Festivals and Fairs

• Central Florida Fair in Orlando
• Osceola County Fair in Kissimmee
• Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival in Winter Park

Orlando Area Health and Wellness 

The Orlando-Kissimmee area offers a range of health and wellness options for 55+ active adults. The region is home to several major medical centers and hospitals, ensuring access to quality healthcare. Nearby hospitals include AdventHealth Orlando, a renowned medical facility offering comprehensive services and specialties, Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center, a leading healthcare provider known for its advanced medical treatments and expertise, and AdventHealth Kissimmee which offers a comprehensive range of medical services. 

In addition to the availability of top-notch medical care, the Orlando-Kissimmee area provides numerous options for self-care and keeping fit. The region is dotted with fitness centers, yoga studios, and wellness centers that offer classes and programs for any skill or fitness level. For those who prefer to exercise outside, the area has many beautiful parks, nature trails, and lakeside areas that provide opportunities for outdoor activities like walking, jogging, and biking.

For those seeking fresh and local produce, there are several farmers markets in the area. These markets offer a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, artisanal goods, and more. Some notable farmers markets include the Winter Garden Farmers Market in Winter Garden, known for its vibrant atmosphere and local vendors, and the Celebration Farmers Market in Celebration, which showcases a diverse range of products in a charming setting.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Orlando Area 55+ Communities

Considering retirement in the Orlando-Kissimmee area? This two-day itinerary will help you familiarize yourself with the region, providing opportunities to experience its charm, amenities, and community atmosphere. 

Day One

Morning:

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast or coffee at Keke's Breakfast Cafe in Orlando.
• Visit Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando, where you can take a leisurely stroll around the lake and enjoy the iconic swan-shaped paddle boats.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a delightful lunch at Toasted in Winter Park, known for its unique take on burgers and grilled cheese.
• Vist the Morse Museum in Winter Park, which houses an extensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany.
• Explore the Winter Park neighborhood, known for its charming boutiques, art galleries, and the beautiful Scenic Boat Tour that takes you through the Winter Park Chain of Lakes.

Evening:

• Indulge in a memorable dinner at Bull & Bear Steakhouse in Orlando, known for its upscale dining experience and delectable steak options.

Day Two

Morning:

• Start your day with breakfast or coffee at The Cup Diner in St. Cloud.
• Meet with your local 55places expert retirement community partner agent to discuss your retirement goals, tour potential 55+ communities, and gain insights into the local real estate market.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Catfish Place in St. Cloud, known for its Southern-style seafood dishes.
• Explore the historic downtown area of Kissimmee, with its charming shops, local boutiques, and the Kissimmee Lakefront Park, offering scenic views of Lake Tohopekaliga.

Evening:

• Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Adriatico Trattoria Italiana in Orlando, serving delicious Italian cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Getting to the Orlando-Kissimmee Area

Getting to the Orlando-Kissimmee area is easy with multiple transportation options available. Whether you're coming from nearby or across the country, here are directions on how visitors can reach the area:

Flying: The nearest major airport is Orlando International Airport (MCO), located in Orlando, Florida. It is served by numerous domestic and international airlines.

Driving: If driving from the north, you can take Interstate 75 (I-75) or Interstate 95 (I-95) southbound, then connect to Florida's Turnpike (State Road 91) to reach the Orlando-Kissimmee area. From the south, you can take I-75 northbound or I-95 northbound, then connect to Florida's Turnpike. If traveling from the west, major highways such as Interstate 4 (I-4) and U.S. Route 27 (US-27) provide access to the region.

By Train or bus: Amtrak offers train services to the Orlando-Kissimmee area. The Orlando station (ORL) is located in downtown Orlando and serves as a major transportation hub. Greyhound and other bus companies provide bus services to downtown Orlando.