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By Cassady Quintana
When it comes to choosing where to live in the Orlando area, there are a number of cities that may sound similar but all offer a variety of experiences: Winter Park, College Park, and Baldwin Park. Each of these offer unique amenities and more on the edges of the city center, so if you’re torn between them, this guide will provide the history, cost of living, lifestyle, and entertainment options to help you make an informed decision.
College Park: Historic Charm Meets Modern Living
History
College Park, established in the early 20th century, takes its name from streets named after prestigious colleges like Harvard, Yale, and Princeton. Over the years, it has transformed into a trendy neighborhood while keeping its historic charm. Its proximity to downtown Orlando makes it a popular choice for professionals and families who enjoy an urban lifestyle without sacrificing a community feel.
Living & Lifestyle
College Park offers a mix of historic and newly renovated homes. With walkable streets, local coffee shops, and the popular Edgewater Drive strip, residents here enjoy a small-town feel adjacent to the heart of the city. The area is known for its strong sense of community, with frequent neighborhood events and farmer's markets.
Cost of Living
Living in College Park is relatively affordable compared to Baldwin Park and Winter Park, with a wide variety of residents and incomes. The median sold price for a home in College Park is currently in the high $400's.
Who Lives Here
College Park attracts a diverse population, including young professionals, families, and retirees. Its proximity to downtown also makes it popular with Orlando’s creative class, including artists and entrepreneurs. Students living in College Park feed into Edgewater High School.
Things to Do
From the scenic Lake Ivanhoe to golfing at the historic Dubsdread Golf Course, College Park includes plenty of recreational opportunities. The area is known for its bold dining options, boutiques, and proximity to Loch Haven Park, home to the Orlando Museum of Art and the Orlando Science Center.
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Winter Park: Elegance and Sophistication
History
Winter Park, founded in the late 19th century, is Orlando’s oldest and most affluent suburb. It was originally developed as a winter resort for wealthy Northerners, and much of that early charm remains today. With tree-lined streets, historic estates, and a bustling cultural scene, Winter Park offers an elevated living experience.
Living & Lifestyle
Winter Park is renowned for its high-end real estate and top-rated schools. Home to stunning estates, historical cottages, and luxury condos, the area caters to those craving both elegance and convenience. Park Avenue, the city's main street, is known for its upscale dining, boutiques, and art galleries.
Read our article for some of the Best Spots to Dine on Park Ave in Winter Park!
Cost of Living
In August 2024, the median sold price for a home in Winter Park was in the $480's, which is a 0.5% decrease from the previous year. But, don’t let this price fool you as there are some homes with prices averaging between $700K and over $2 million. Renting in Winter Park also comes with a premium, with prices starting around $2,500 for a two-bedroom apartment. Despite the high cost, many are drawn to Winter Park’s reputation for excellent schools, beautiful parks, and strong community ties.
Award Winning Winter Park Home Sold by the Pozek Group for $4.25M
Who Lives Here
Winter Park tends to attract wealthy families, professionals, and retirees looking for a sophisticated and quiet lifestyle. It’s also a popular area for students attending Rollins College, one of the top liberal arts schools in the country.
Things to Do
From the scenic boat tours on the Winter Park Chain of Lakes to cultural attractions like the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, Winter Park offers a wide array of activities. Its lush parks, including Central Park, are perfect for strolls, while Park Avenue’s shops and cafes make it a popular destination for weekend outings. The Winter Park Farmers’ Market is a local favorite, offering fresh produce, artisan goods, and a strong sense of community.
Baldwin Park: A Modern Masterpiece
History
Baldwin Park is one of Orlando’s newer neighborhoods, developed in the early 2000s on the site of the former Orlando Naval Training Center. Planned as a walkable, modern community, it features beautiful homes, condos and apartments, and a vibrant town center.
Living & Lifestyle
Known for its picturesque streets, Baldwin Park features a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and luxury apartments. The neighborhood was designed with walkability in mind, meaning you can stroll to restaurants, shops, and parks with ease.
Cost of Living
Baldwin Park is the most expensive of the three, on average. In August 2024, the median sale price for a home in Baldwin Park was $920,000, which is a 26.1% increase from the previous year. While home prices continue to rise, people can look to explore the town's apartments and condos. The well-maintained parks, excellent schools, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a great choice for those looking for a suburban city while remaining within the city limits.
Who Lives Here
Baldwin Park is especially popular with young families and professionals, due to its modern amenities and top-rated schools, including Baldwin Park Elementary and Winter Park High School. Its safe streets and proximity to downtown Orlando also make it appealing to retirees and those seeking a quieter lifestyle right outside of the city center.
Things to Do
Baldwin Park’s central village features a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, and its lakeside location offers opportunities for outdoor activities like kayaking, running, and picnicking. Lake Baldwin Park is one of the few dog-friendly parks in the area, attracting pet lovers and families.
Which Park is Right for You?
Choosing between College Park, Winter Park, and Baldwin Park comes down to your lifestyle preferences and budget. If you want a blend of history and modernness, College Park’s energetic vibe might be for you. If you’re looking for luxury, culture, and sophistication, Winter Park is the clear winner. For those seeking a newer, family-friendly community with modern conveniences, Baldwin Park offers a suburban feel with urban perks.
The Orlando Real is sponsored by the Pozek Group. If you’re thinking of buying or selling a home in Orlando, reach out and we would love to help!
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