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Orlando is a major city in Central Florida and the seat of Orange County, with a population of roughly 315,000 in the city proper and approximately 3 million in the greater metro area. The city is home to the University of Central Florida, Full Sail University, and Valencia College, making it a significant hub for higher education. Orlando's economy is driven by its world-famous theme park industry, as well as growing sectors in technology, healthcare, aerospace, and defense. Beyond the tourist corridors, Orlando offers diverse neighborhoods, a growing arts and dining scene, and access to beaches on both Florida coasts within a two-hour drive.
Directly adjacent to UCF, the densest concentration of student apartments, many with shuttle service to campus.
A planned community a few miles east, with newer housing, major retail, and a quieter atmosphere for upperclassmen and graduate students.
North of campus, a small-town character with residential streets and a range of housing sizes.
West of UCF, a well-established upscale suburb with excellent dining and retail at a higher price point.
More affordable options for budget-conscious students willing to drive a few extra minutes.
Here's what you need to know about getting around Orlando.
Lynx is the regional bus system serving Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties, with routes connecting many Orlando neighborhoods to the UCF area and downtown. SunRail is a commuter rail line running north-south through the metro, though its station network is limited and service frequency is modest. For most students, especially those living in the eastern suburbs near UCF, public transit alone is unlikely to meet all transportation needs.
Orlando is a primarily car-oriented city, but biking is practical in pockets near the UCF campus and in neighborhoods with dedicated trail infrastructure like the Cady Way Trail. Walking is feasible within tight residential clusters and near campus apartment complexes, but the sprawling suburban layout makes walking impractical for most errands. Some students use bikes for short on-campus trips while relying on cars or rideshares for everything else.
Parking is generally available and affordable throughout the Orlando suburbs, including the neighborhoods surrounding UCF. Most apartment complexes near campus include dedicated parking, and on-street parking is common in residential areas. On-campus parking requires a permit and can be competitive during peak class hours.
Common questions from students searching for housing.
Orlando offers college students a dynamic environment with abundant job opportunities in hospitality, tech, and healthcare, as well as a lively social scene. The city's theme parks, sports venues, and proximity to Florida beaches add significant recreational value to student life.
Browse student housing near each Orlando-area university.