An Orlando suburb set against the backdrop of natural springs and green forests
Known as the "indoor foliage capital of the world," Apopka is a historic central Florida city with a rural past and blossoming commercial future 20 miles outside of Orlando. The city of 61,000 received its unofficial title during the early 1900s when fern-growing became a profitable venture for many residents. Large-scale agricultural farms followed, and the town was officially incorporated in 1919. Today, the rapidly growing city still has an appreciation for its rural roots, with multiple parks, hiking trails and natural springs scattered throughout. Newer housing developments have been built to accommodate the city's population growth, which has risen 12% since 2020. Many residents commute to work in Orlando’s robust aerospace, medical, and tourism industries.
With a well-connected location and access to Orange County Public Schools, the suburban community immersed in nature provides a slower alternative to downtown Orlando's busy streets. "For anyone who's considering a move to central Florida, the Apopka area offers better value, more house and more property for the money compared to Orlando," says Daniel Betancourt, a local Real Estate Agent and team leader with EXP Realty. "For years, it's mainly been locals that are relocating, but now it's people moving into central Florida looking for a little more room for what they can afford."
This beautiful mural welcomes people to Apopka as they travel through Main Street.
The city of Apopka overlooks beautiful Lake Apopka.
Apopka is known as the "Indoor Foliage Capitol Of The World".
Apopka locals can take a stroll at the Northwest Recreation Complex on Jason Dwelley Parkway.
The Northwest Recreation Complex in Apopka is an athletic park.
Apopka High School educates the teens of Apopka, FL.
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New housing developments and rural estates
Apopka's average home value is around $430,000, but properties can range anywhere from $200,000 to $3 million. There is a large variety of housing factors, including waterfront views, gated communities and multi-car garages, yet most provide an appealing alternative to properties in major metro areas. Townhouses from the early 2000s and midcentury ranch-style homes are typically the least expensive, ranging from $200,000 to $350,000. New construction split-level and two-story homes range between $500,000 and $700,000. On the outskirts of Apopka, sprawling estates on expansive lots sell from $1 million to $2 million and many feature timeless architecture styles drawing upon Gothic and colonial influences. Builders are rapidly constructing new housing developments to help keep pace with Central Florida's growth. "Apopka is going through a massive boom," says Jamie Ampel, broker and owner of All Seller & Buyers Realty, who grew up in the Apopka area. "The backside was always rural with orange groves, cattle fields and agriculture. Now there are massive housing developments with 7,000 new construction units slated to come."
Large homes with lakeside views are available in Apopka.
Apopka has plenty of waterfront homes with over 30 bodies of water in the area.
Blue Grass Estates is a luxurious equestrian community on Rock Springs Road in Apopka.
Apopka's streets are lined with beautiful homes and well manicured yards.
Apopka is experiencing development growth throughout the city.
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Cold, clear water at Kelly Springs State Park
Apopka Lake is the fourth-largest lake in Florida and is a popular place for boating or fishing. Yet this expansive body of water is the tip of the iceberg for recreation in the city. Apopka is surrounded by forestry and natural springs, including nearby Kelly Springs State Park, where visitors can try and spot some wildlife or dip in the cold, clear water during hot summer days. "The freshwater springs come up from underground so that water is very clear and natural," Betancourt says. "When you see Instagram reels from this park, it's always people paddleboarding up and down a clear, shallow river under a canopy of trees."
Similarly, Rock Springs Run Reserve offers days on the river and miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails. Wekiwa Springs State Park is nearby and features another way to enjoy the clear spring water with numerous canoeing and snorkeling opportunities and occasional manatee sightings. For fun on dry land, the Northwest Recreation Complex has multiple baseball diamonds, basketball courts and multi-purpose fields.
Apopka has beautiful waterfront living.
Recharge with a picnic at Wekiwa Springs in Apopka.
No matter the weather, Apopka residents can enjoy Rock Springs.
The scenic views in Kelly Park, just outside Apopka.
Magnolia Park, in Clarcona, offers pedestrian and boat access to Lake Apopka.
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Apopka Art & Foliage Festival takes place every April
The city's signature event is the Apopka Art & Foliage Festival, held every April. The gathering pays homage to the area's horticulture heritage with a vast display of plant arrangements and flowers from local gardeners. Artists can also showcase their creative endeavors, and all proceeds are given back to the community through scholarships and charitable donations. Other popular events include the Saturday Sounds Concert Series, held October through May at the Apopka Amphitheater. Disney World and Universal Studios are around 30 miles away, and the Kia Center, home of the NBA's Orland Magic, is 20 miles away.
The Apopka Amphitheater hosts concerts and monthly events.
Saturday Sounds is a free concert series at at the Apopka Amphitheater.
Apopka's annual Chistmas Parade is always well attended.
The Apopka Chistmas Parade is held in December on main street.
The Annual Chistmas Tree Lighting is held at Kit Land Nelson Park in Apopka.
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Southern Apopka features popular shops and restaurants
Apopka Commons is the city's commercial hub, as the shopping plaza is full of local businesses, department stores and national chain eateries. There is also a Winn-Dixie for groceries. West Orange Blossom Trial is home to numerous popular eateries, including The Nauti Lobstah, a New-England-inspired eatery serving fresh lobster rolls and platters of fried scallops and shrimp. El Porto is down the street and features classic Mexican cuisine and tasty margaritas with live music on the weekends. While commercial activity has traditionally been centered around Southern Apopka, The Wyld Oaks Development plan seeks to change that. The 215-acre mixed-use development will feature multiple parks, shopping centers and office space, transforming northern Apopka into a vibrant commercial center. Construction began in January of 2024 and is expected to be completed in the next two years. "When I was growing up, there was only fast-food restaurants here," Ample says. "Now there's all this new growth and development. It's a real treat because you used to have to drive to Altamonte Springs for these things."
Apopka Commons is located at 1631 US-441.
Apopka's local Winn Dixie is located at 1565 W Orange Blossom Trail.
Apopka locals can stop in to Garibaldis on 436, to grab a margarita or burrito.
Caffe Positano is a local Italian favorite in the community of Apopka.
The Wyld Oaks development will be 215 acres of new retail and homes in Apopka.
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Apopka High School produces athletes
The Orange County Public School District serves Apopka and is ranked the best school district for athletes in Florida by Niche. Apopka High School receives a B-plus rating on Niche and has won three football state championships since 2001. The school also offers a medical career magnet program. “Apopka High School has done well in recent years," Betancourt says. "There have been numerous professional players that have come from the city." Highly rated private school options include the Trinity Christian School and Central Florida Preparatory School. For higher education, Orlando is home to the University of Central Florida, which has one of the largest undergraduate populations in the country.
Apopka High School's Blue Darters are the pride of all in North Apopka.
North Apopka's Apopka High School is well known for it's athletic and academic programs.
Apopka High School, in North Apopka, is home to the Blue Darters.
Apopka High School's football program is the pride of North Apopka.
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Well-connected to nearby Orlando with miles of walking paths scattered throughout
Apopka is centrally located to the rest of Florida and features well-connected transportation routes to nearby metro areas. "Apopka is in the state's center, so you're roughly equidistant to both the east and west coasts," Betancourt says. "There are several highways that connect to downtown Orlando very easily, as well as the Disney World side of town." Downtown Orlando is around 20 miles away and can be reached with State Road 414, also known as the Apopka Expressway. The Lynx, Orlando's public bus system, also services connections in Apopka. Orlando International Airport is 35 miles away and offers multiple domestic and international flights. While the community may be largely car-dependent, city officials are looking to make Apopka more walkable. In 2023, the city council approved a plan to build a network of walking paths connecting downtown to parks, restaurants and other points of interest. These new paths will join the existing 394 miles of biking and walking trails that already wind throughout the city.
Crime and Environment
According to the FBI's Crime Data Explorer, 313 violent incidents and 1,579 property incidents were reported in Apopka during 2022. Crime Grade gives Apopka an overall A-plus and reports 2.39 incidents of violent crime per 1,000 residents, less than the national average of 3.8. In 2023, the Apopka Police Department detailed its efforts to reduce crime in the area, particularly theft, through patrolling high-crime areas and posting safety tips on social media. Crime Grade's map of Apopka shows that most crime incidents occur in the northeastern part of the city.
While no place in Florida is entirely safe from Hurricanes, Apopka's inland location helps to protect residents and homeowners from stronger storm damage. "It's about 60-70 miles inland from the coast, so it's pretty well insulated," Betancourt says. "For people who want that Florida living with a reduced risk of wind damage, the best place to live is in the interior part of the state.” Homeowners are still encouraged to review insurance options and preparedness plans. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures reaching into the 90s. Afternoon thunderstorms are common during the spring and summer.
Written By
Beck Connelley
Photography Contributed By
Jay Welker
Video By
Christian Gortler
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Rodney Melendez,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Apopka, FL sell after 57 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Apopka, FL over the last 12 months is $400,990, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to Apopka Woods, where modern design meets energy efficiency in a prime LOCATION!! 3/4 bedroom (3 beds + enclosed flex) Built in 2017 with solid CONCRETE BLOCK construction, enhanced by a whole-house SOLAR SYSTEM! AVERAGE ELEVETRIC BILL IS UNDER $50!!. The GIFT that keeps on giving with long-term energy savings!!this single-story home offers durability, thoughtful design, and effortless
Located in the highly desirable Rock Springs Ridge community, this beautifully remodeled 5-bedroom, 3-bath home sits on a quiet cul-de-sac street on an expansive 1/3-acre soon to be golf course lot with no rear neighbors and features a NEW ROOF (2025). The setting offers peaceful green space views and a rare sense of privacy, while the soon-to-be reopened golf course presents an exciting
Welcome to your new Central Florida home! This Hutchinson floor plan in the Parkview Preserve community by Ryan Homes is their most popular! The two-year-young home offers an open concept that is perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. You'll enjoy a great view from one of the few covered front porches in the community. The study/den at the front of the home can be used as a TV room,
Skip the Wait. Skip the Work. Welcome to Turnkey Luxury.Why wait months to build when you can move right into this pristine, custom-curated Toll Brothers masterpiece today? Built in 2024, this home completely bypasses the standard base packages, showcasing the builder’s signature exquisite craftsmanship elevated by tens of thousands in high-end, designer upgrades you won't find in a standard
Welcome to 1412 Oak Place #A, a comfortable residence set in the peaceful surroundings of Errol Estates. The home includes a finished sunroom off the living room, providing an extra enclosed space that enhances the interior layout. The galley kitchen is designed for practicality, with cabinetry and counter space arranged for easy use. The primary bedroom stands out with a built-out walk-in closet
LOWEST PRICE PER SQUARE FOOT IN THE COMMUNITY - BEST VALUE CORNER UNIT CONDO with MAJOR SYSTEMS UPDATED in an exclusive GATED COMMUNITY in APOPKA! Qualified buyers may be eligible for a lower interest rate and reduced monthly payment through the seller's preferred lender. Why wait for new construction when you can move right into this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath corner-unit condo in
Effortless Living Meets Smart Investment in Wekiva Reserve! Tired of renting? Step into ownership with this beautifully maintained 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome, perfectly located in the highly desirable Wekiva Reserve community. Boasting two ensuite bedrooms and an open-concept layout, this home offers flexibility, comfort, and long-term value. Downstairs, enjoy easy-care tile flooring, a modern
Welcome to Apopka Woods, where modern design meets energy efficiency in a prime LOCATION!! 3/4 bedroom (3 beds + enclosed flex) Built in 2017 with solid CONCRETE BLOCK construction, enhanced by a whole-house SOLAR SYSTEM! AVERAGE ELEVETRIC BILL IS UNDER $50!!. The GIFT that keeps on giving with long-term energy savings!!this single-story home offers durability, thoughtful design, and effortless
Welcome home to this beautifully maintained 2019, 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence offering comfortable living with a bright, open floor plan and stylish finishes throughout. The spacious living room flows seamlessly into the well-appointed kitchen, featuring a large center island with breakfast bar seating, abundant cabinetry, modern backsplash, and ample counter space-perfect for everyday living
**This house comes with a REDUCED RATE through the seller's preferred lender. This is a lender-paid rate buydown that reduces the buyer's interest rate and monthly payment.** Welcome to 2080 Cranberry Isles Way, a beautifully maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home designed for comfortable single-story living in the heart of Apopka. Thoughtfully designed with a spacious open floor plan, this home
**This house comes with a REDUCED RATE through the seller's preferred lender. This is a lender-paid rate buydown that reduces the buyer's interest rate and monthly payment.** Welcome to 2480 Via Genova, a beautifully maintained 2 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom home offering comfortable living space in the heart of Apopka. Designed with a spacious and practical single-story layout, this home offers an
**This house comes with a REDUCED RATE through the seller's preferred lender. This is a lender-paid rate buydown that reduces the buyer's interest rate and monthly payment as well as the Seller is offering a $5,000 credit for closing cost.** Discover comfort and convenience in this charming 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath condo located in a desirable, well-maintained community in the heart of Apopka. Nestled
Every inch of this beautifully remodeled home has been thoughtfully designed to create the perfect balance of style, comfort, and functionality. Nestled in Foxwood, one of Wekiva's most desirable communities, this move-in-ready home offers just over 2,100 square feet, LOCATION! LOCATION! SEMINOLE SCHOOLS! 4 bedrooms, and 2 beautifully remodeled, filled with natural light, timeless finishes, and
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Waterfront Home in Gated Community | Apopka, FL | Skiable Lake Access | Dual Primary Suites | Highly Rated Schools If you've been searching for a lakefront home in Apopka, FL, this is the one and properties like this rarely stay on the market.Situated on a private, skiable Lake Marshall waterfront in the prestigious gated community of Lakeside,
Virtually Staged. This well-kept 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offers 1,010 sq. ft. of thoughtfully designed living space in a sidewalk-lined Apopka neighborhood. Major systems have been updated in recent years, including the roof in 2022 and water heater in 2021, offering added peace of mind for years to come. Step inside to a bright, welcoming living and dining area where natural light pours through
Vue at the Ridge is nestled within the sprawling mixed-use development of The Ridge at Lake Bronson in Apopka, Florida. Our community offers a sophisticated living experience that seamlessly integrates modern conveniences with natural beauty. Choose from an array of 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartment home that fits your style. Find your new home today at Vue at the Ridge!
Nearly half an acre with furnishings negotiable. Water, electricity, and lawn care are included in the rent. Powered by solar panels to help improve energy efficiency, this 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offers a flexible rental opportunity. The owner is willing to remove and store the existing furnishings for tenants who prefer to use their own furniture. The home features a spacious living area, a
Located just north of Orlando, The Oasis at Wekiva apartment homes in Apopka, FL offers all the living options you need to create a lifestyle you expect, demand and deserve. Our spacious one and two bedroom apartments come well-appointed with all the features and fine finishes uniquely created with you in mind. We offer fully-equipped gourmet kitchens, spacious walk-in closets, sunlit solariums
BEAUTIFUL NEW 3 bedroom 2 1⁄2 bath Home with a 2 Car Garage and Den/Bonus Room! Don’t miss your chance to be the first resident in this beautifully appointed New Construction Home in Golden Orchard, Apopka. As you enter you will be greeted with a spacious foyer and the spacious Den/Office space. You will then be greeted by the beautiful oversized Kitchen with a large center island. The kitchen
Choose to live your best life at Pointe at East Shore! Our apartments in Apopka allow you to reside in comfort and sophistication while exploring the unique and dynamic culture of Central Florida. Superior amenities, resort-inspired services, and a well-connected address allow you to indulge in all the urban conveniences you want without giving up on the peace and quiet you deserve.Ideally
Welcome to this beautiful end unit townhome in the gated community of Emerson North with over 1,700 square feet of living space. You'll find a bright, open layout where the Living Room, Dining area, and Kitchen flow together, with tile flooring throughout the main level. The Kitchen features lots of cabinetry, granite counters, stainless appliances, a closet pantry, and a breakfast bar. A half
BLVD 2600, just north of Orlando, presents a resort-style haven where modern design meets the ease of Florida living. Choose from thoughtfully designed one, two, and three-bedroom apartments featuring open-concept layouts, sleek finishes, and private outdoor spaces that bring comfort and style together.?Step outside your home and experience a collection of waterside amenities designed for both
Welcome to 3030 at Apopka, where modern living meets everyday comfort. Choose from spacious 1, 2, and 3-bedroom floor plans featuring open layouts, wood-style flooring, sleek quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, walk-in closets, and in-home washers and dryers. Enjoy a host of community amenities including a resort-style pool with sundeck, 24-hour fitness center, bark park, outdoor
Find your sanctuary at Serenity at Lake Wales. Our contemporary one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment homes deliver luxury living off US-27, with easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Enjoy impressive finishes, resort-quality amenities, and a peaceful setting that makes coming home feel like a vacation. Experience serene, elevated living in the heart of Florida.
Find yourself nestled amidst nature in the lush and verdant setting of J. Ardin at Apopka. Contemporary 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments in Apopka, FL which are tucked into a tranquil retreat creating an elevated lifestyle that blooms with possibilities. Take a stroll along pathways that offer a serene view of Medicine Lake and its water lilies or relax in a chic poolside cabana to refresh your
Treat yourself to the best of modern resort-style living with all the luxuries and amenities you deserve. The observation deck offers you special views of Lake Apopka and our community lake will automatically relax you. You’ve earned it.
Experience Modern Living at Integra GrovesWelcome to Integra Groves, Apopka's premier apartment community designed for those who value style, comfort, and connection. Ideally located within the vibrant Crossroads at Kelly Park development, Integra Groves offers the perfect balance of small-town charm and easy access to Greater Orlando's most dynamic
When it comes to golf courses, luxury homes and top-tier schools, Alaqua is a hole-in-one.<br><br>“Alaqua is an upscale community,” says Keith Leveson, Realtor at MVP Realty. In fact, the median home price in Alaqua is more than a million dollars. Drive through the neighborhood and you’ll find numerous high-end subdivisions brimming with large ranch homes and multi-story mansions sitting on elaborate landscapes. Most homes showcase stucco or stone exteriors and Spanish roofs. For ultimate luxury, consider moving into Alaqua Lakes. This gated community is filled with massive estates that were built after the millennium. It sits along the edge of Wekiwa Springs State Park and offers homes with lakefront and golf course views. It also has a community pool and tennis courts. <br><br>Get similar views but in a smaller gated subdivision at Wingfield Reserve and Magnolia Plantation. If you don’t want a homeowner’s association, Markham Meadows is a non-gated community that’s packed with midsized houses in contemporary styles, featuring stucco exteriors and arched entryways. <br><br>An added benefit to the luxurious golf communities of Alaqua: they’re part of Seminole County Public Schools. It’s widely recognized as a Premier National School District and has received an “A” rating from the Florida Department of Education.<br><br>Heathrow Elementary School has a perfect rating in test scores and student progress, according to GreatSchools.org. Kids can also select from a wide array of extracurriculars, including ecology, robotics and harmony. Markham Woods Middle School offers students a biomechatronic program that prepares students for careers in robotics, computer coding and medicine. Students at Lake Mary High School can enroll in a program of emphasis that centers coursework around a career pathway, like advanced manufacturing or forensic science and legal studies. There are also more than two dozen athletic options, including water polo, lacrosse and fastpitch softball.<br><br>Follow the oak-lined roads to Heathrow Country Club. This prestigious institution has a 36-hole championship golf course as well as tennis courts, a competitive-style pool, an athletic center and an award-winning dining room. Alaqua Country Club is an invitation-only club featuring an 18-hole course, gun range and gym. They also offer a golf summer camp for kids.<br><br>Step foot on the Seminole Wekiva Trail at the Jones Trailhead outpost. This nearly 15-mile pathway is built on the tracks of the Orange Belt Railway, connecting Altamonte Springs to Sanford. Bike past Paint the Trail, a local landmark of pop culture murals painted on a wooden fence. Sign the kids up for tennis camps or a league at Sylvan Lake Park. This green space also features soccer fields, running trails and a fishing pier. Across the street is Seminole Soccer Complex, which hosts academies, leagues and competitions for kids aged 4 through 19. Take a break from the outdoors and head to Planet Obstacle, the world’s largest indoor obstacle park. The venue features a rope course, zip line, rock climbing and bumper cars.<br><br>Alaqua sits along the edge of Wekiwa Springs State Park, the longest-running tourist attraction in Orange County. With the water never dipping below 72 degrees, this rare ecosystem provides year-round fun for residents. Although known as a place to go swimming with manatees, many enjoy snorkeling and paddling as well. Spend an afternoon fishing, enjoy a picnic by the river, take a wildlife trail or go horseback riding. Enjoy a staycation and go camping under the tropical hammocks. This park also hosts the annual Wekiva Paint Out where people can watch artists live paint the Wekiva River.<br><br>Have a roast beef hash benedict or patty melt at Peach Valley Café, a local chain restaurant serving a classic American brunch menu. Lemongrass soup, green papaya and Thai summer rolls are just a few of the delicacies that await at Orchid Thai Cuisine Lake Mary. When craving southern fried shrimp or onion soup, locals stop by the chophouse chain Stonewood Grill & Tavern.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Apopka Has More Owners
Rental Home Trends
Number of Homes for Rent
274
Median Rent
$2,334
Median Single Family Home Rent
$2,400
Median 4 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$2,600
Median Townhouse Rent
$2,390
Median 3 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$2,370
Median Condo Rent
$2,146
Median 2 Bedroom Condo Rent
$2,335
Demographics
Total Population
59,831
Median Age
40
Population under 18
25.3%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
16%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$75,858
On par with the national average
$79,597
Average Household Income
$99,382
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
87%
College Graduates
28.6%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
8.8%
On par with the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
68.5%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
51''
Average Winter Low Temperature
52°F
Average Summer High Temperature
92°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Somewhat bikeable
Bikeability®
30/ 100
Somewhat walkable
Walkability®
20/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.