As Central Florida continues to see rapid growth, Orlando Family Magazine takes a look at some of the most desirable and trendy municipalities throughout the region.

For many of those on the outside looking in, Orlando may be thought of as solely a tourist destination with not much to offer outside of its world-class theme parks and attractions. But to the folks who call it home, it’s evident that this region represents much more, with an attractive quality of life and coveted communities where civic pride runs deep.

Our annual look at some of the most desirable zip codes in the area explores the varying attributes and ever-evolving developments and experiences that makes each one so special. With an increasing number of people moving to Central Florida each week, it would appear others are beginning to recognize what we’ve known for a long time: Orlando is a great place to live, work and play. 

Alafaya
Located a short drive away from the University of Central Florida, this suburb in Orange County is a young community, with over half of the population being under the age of 45. The area holds a number of trendy bars and restaurants, as well as cultural sites, outdoor trails and the UCF Art Gallery, giving recreational options to those in Alafaya, no matter their interests. 

Apopka
One of the most scenic areas of Orange County, this community has no shortage of wildlife preserves, springs, playgrounds, parks and trails made for walking or biking, giving residents ways to regularly connect with nature. Every year the city holds the Apopka Art & Foliage Festival, allowing for community connection and providing ways to sell and purchase local crafts. 

Baldwin Park
Located directly within Orlando’s city limits, Baldwin Park offers a walkable community with lots of unique natural landmarks and local businesses. Swim in the two lakes, swing by the dog park or make use of one of the local workout centers to stay fit and active. It’s also the perfect place to enjoy some outdoor entertainment whether a concert, festival or another special event.

Celebration
This suburb of Orlando is positioned in Osceola County, giving residents a master-planned community to live comfortably within. For a night out enjoy sweets and treats, cultural cuisine or any number of casual dining options. The year-round farmers market in the Town Center brings people together for fresh produce and artisanal crafted goods, while festivals throughout the year attract residents and tourists alike. 

Clermont
This diverse community features public schools that routinely rank among the best in the state, making it ideal for families in the Orlando area. The historic downtown gives residents a glimpse of the town’s past, while golf courses, wineries and scenic overlooks give a wider range of activities for time off. Located just 30 minutes from Orlando, it allows easy access to the city without as much hustle and bustle. 

College Park
This affluent neighborhood stands out for its access to both the downtown area and its charming, walkable small-town vibe. Cottages from decades to over a century old give the area a distinctive look, while Lake Ivanhoe gives residents ways to stay active through water skiing and boating. Vintage shops, locally owned boutiques and all kinds of eateries add to the close-knit community feeling. 

Conway
In Central Florida’s fast-growing communities, a smaller neighborhood can be a breath of fresh air. Conway offers this lower population, only around 13,000 currently, creating a safe environment with highly-rated public and charter schools, outdoor recreation and nightlife. The suburb is family friendly and walkable, making it easy for many residents to trek from their homes to the local grocery store. 

Delaney Park
Delaney Park is great for anyone who values nightlife and those who love health and fitness activities. Cafes, bars, restaurants and parks give residents ways to stay active and spend their nights with friends and family. And with close proximity to the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and the Kia Center, you’re never too far from catching an exciting performance from local acts and big names coming through town. 

Dr. Phillips
Close to Orlando’s many theme parks, the area is one of the most sought-after locations in Central Florida for new residents. A wealthy and dense suburb, Dr. Phillips is great for foodies, harboring a number of dining destinations. Golf courses, luxury spas, shops and expensive estates give the region a defined and sophisticated aesthetic.

Gotha
Placed between Ocoee and Windermere, Gotha is a small community defined by its historical exhibits and natural landmarks. Nature trails, lakes and parks offer ways for residents to keep themselves active while connecting with the local ecosystem. Nehrling Gardens sells plants and provides classes perfect for anyone with a green thumb, while Titaniacs will love Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition and its recreations of the ship’s iconic staircase. 

Horizon West
One of the larger communities in Central Florida, Horizon West continues to attract new residents. With high-quality K-12 education and being located not far from many of Orlando’s most popular theme parks, the appeal is no surprise. In fact, several residents can enjoy the Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks show from their yards. Both families and young professionals are able to easily find a home that fits their lifestyles here. 

Hunters Creek
Ranked among the best suburbs in Florida, Hunters Creek gives residents access to highly ranked schools and a welcoming environment. Parks, trails, tennis and basketball courts, and numerous golf courses give residents many opportunities to enjoy some fun in the sun. Community events are organized regularly, from larger holiday celebrations to more routine gatherings like community classes and movies in the park.

Lake Nona
As a master-planned community within Orlando’s city limits, Lake Nona stands out as a particularly trendy area. Families have easy access to Nona Adventure Park, where they can try their hand at a floating obstacle course and wakeboarding. Boxi Park, also in the neighborhood, frequently sees live musical performances, and offers the chance to sample bites from several food trucks, a kids’ playground and even a little beach volleyball. 

Maitland
Good schools and a safe area to raise a family are not the only factors that attract residents to Maitland. Rich in museums, galleries and outdoor activities, the city is great for any nature or art history lover who wants to easily connect with their passion. The Audubon Center for Birds of Prey is one fun way to get educated in an interactive environment. 

Metro West
Another master-planned neighborhood within Orlando, Metro West gives residents a more urban feel, with a good portion if its residents being young professionals. Several of the area’s public safety programs are award winning and nearby schools have a credible reputaiton. Over 500 businesses operate within Metro West, giving residents plenty to do within the neighborhood, while its position within Orlando gives quick access to various city-wide events. 

Minneola
This suburb is located inside Lake County, and ranks among the best places to raise a family in the county, providing a more rural feel than most other suburbs. The area is particularly good for outdoorsy families, as the natural landscape offers a wide variety of things to do, from swimming and walking trails to fishing and bird watching. Wineries and bars give nightlife options for adults. 

Montverde
Montverde is scenic and calm, and excellent public and private schools abound in the area. Lakes, nature preserves and parks give families fun throughout the year with various events and activities like hiking and animal watching. It is also only a short drive from Florida’s highest point at Sugarloaf Mountain. 

Oakland
While the population is small, the town is growing quickly, drawing people in by being served by good educational institutions in the form of both public schools and recreational facilities. The Oakland Nature Preserve features over 13 miles of trails and boardwalks, as well as an education center that offers environmental lessons and resources to those of all ages. The community is affluent and diverse with lots of options for recreation. 

Ocoee
A large suburb, Ocoee gives residents the convenience of only being a short distance from downtown Orlando with a slower pace than typical city living. The community and the amenities available are both rapidly growing. One that’s currently available, the Family Aquatic Center, gives kids and adults alike a beach-style entry pool and other play features.

Windermere
One of the top-ranked, wealthiest and most sought-after towns in the state, the area is great for families, with stellar education available to children as well as being rated highly by those working in the area for career growth and employment rates. Breweries and lounges give adults ways to unwind and meet up with friends, while playgrounds and other activities for the family make it a wonderful place to spend your leisure time. 

Winter Garden
Low crime rates, great schools and a sparse suburban vibe characterize this area, making the city a place many seek out when looking for a place to raise their children. The local farmers market connects residents to locally grown fruits and veggies, as well as regional artists. The downtown Winter Garden area also brings the community together, with unique restaurants and charming stores.

Winter Park
Great for families that enjoy being active and learning together, Winter Park features multiple museums, botanical gardens, a tennis center and the Winter Park Chain of Lakes, getting families out of the house for art, history or fitness-based bonding activities. Diverse food options are available in the city, from Mediterranean to Mexican and everything in between. Nearby, Central Park spans 11 acres complete with a rose garden and impressive fountains.