$409,178Average Value$274Average Price per Sq Ft2Homes For Sale
Forest City offers quiet living between the trees
The quiet suburb of Forest City, about 15 miles north of Orlando, has roots in the citrus industry but the city of 15,000 is better known these days for its tree-lined streets, convenient location and sought-after school district. The leading industries in Forest City are healthcare, finance and insurance. Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital is a major local employer less than 10 miles away.
A beautiful aerial view of I4 leading to downtown Orlando near Bear Lake.
Families take strolls together with their dog in the neighborhoods of Bear Lake.
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Forest City has ranch-style, Cape Cod and Spanish eclectic houses
The median price of homes in Forest City is around $380,000, lower than the national average. More than half of the current housing stock is single-family homes, ranging from midcentury ranch-style houses and Cape Cods to Spanish eclectic houses built in the 1980s and ‘90s. Townhouses and condos were also built in the ‘80s and ‘90s. Forest City is home to several lakes, providing many properties with waterfront backyards. Flood insurance is highly recommended. Hurricane season ranges from early June to the end of November.
A beautiful stone faced ranch-style waterfront home on Bear Lake.
Local kids love to skate board down the streets of Bear Lake.
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Parks are nearby in Altamonte Springs
Forest City is surrounded by beautiful parks. Lake Lotus Park in Altamonte Springs is a popular 150-acre nature preserve. The city is also home to the Seminole Wekiva Trail, a paved pathway that follows a scenic route lined by mature live oaks. It runs along the east side of Forest City and connects to Westmonte Park, which has traditional park offerings like a shaded playground and facilities for tennis, pickleball, basketball and swimming. Jay Patterson, a Realtor with Keller Williams Advantage Realty, says Wekiva Island and Wekiva Springs State Park are recreational draws, too. “It’s only a 17- to 20-minute drive away, so many people like to go there," he says. "That, and Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive.” The north shore of Lake Apopka, roughly 10 miles west, sprawls across 20,000 acres, and its looping trail is a popular destination for birding and viewing wildlife. “You see all some great biodiversity,” Patterson says.
Lake Lotus Park has several boardwalks leading to Lake Lotus.
Wekiva Springs natives can take a stroll or bike the beautiful Seminole Wekiva Trail.
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Forest City is served by the best school district in Florida
According to Niche, Forest City is served by Florida’s best school district, Seminole County Public Schools, which the website grades an A. Local standout Lake Brantley High earns an A-minus. The high school offers two programs of emphasis: the Academy of Finance and the Academy of Creative Design and Entertainment. Forest Lake Academy, graded A, is a popular private choice in the city.
Lake Brantley High School in Spring Valley boasts a 96% graduation rate.
Teague Middle School is located in the Bear Lake community of Altamonte Springs, Fl.
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Everything from Lowe's to Starbucks within “8 to10 minutes”
One of Patterson’s favorite parts of living in Forest City is its overall convenience. “Everything you need is within 8 to 10 minutes,” he says. “A neighborhood Walmart, a superstore Walmart, a gas station, the dentist, Starbucks, Home Depot, Lowe’s — you name it, it’s within 8 or 10 minutes.” Big box stores and chain eateries cluster around the intersection of Florida State Road 436 and State Road 434. More restaurants and shopping options are along Orange Blossom Trail.
Forest City is central to Orlando and Orlando International Airport
Car-dependent Forest City is less than 15 miles north of Orlando, and Interstate 4 — about 4 miles outside the community — provides a direct route. U.S. Route 441 is another way to get to the central city. LYNX buses provide public transportation with stops on Semoran Boulevard. Orlando International Airport is about 24 miles away.
Seminole County's low crime rate dropped more in 2024
Forest City is served by the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, and in 2024, the county’s crime rate dropped by 19%.
Concerts and festivals draw crowds across Forest City area
Just 12 miles away, the Kia Center hosts Orlando Magic basketball games and major concerts. Nearby Altamonte Springs draws crowds year-round with popular events like the Red Hot & Boom Independence Day celebration, Uptown Vibes, and the Taste of Altamonte Food & Wine Festival. Forest Lake Academy’s Schmidt Auditorium regularly opens its doors to the public for free concerts and community events, enriching the local arts scene.
Written By
Micaela Willoughby
Photography Contributed By
Stephen Flint
Video By
Rebecca Askin
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Regan Jackson,
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 Forest City, FL sell after 229 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Forest City, FL over the last 12 months is $559,000.
Virtually Staged. Welcome to 722 Virginia Ln, a residence with fresh exterior paint and partial flooring replacement for a refreshed interior. The kitchen features all stainless steel appliances, complementing the home's updates and providing modern functionality. Outside, a fully fenced in backyard provides a complete outdoor area. A perfect blend of updates and functionality awaits you here..
Florida Outdoor Living at its finest! Rarely does a property like this become available. Nestled on nearly a half-acre with NO HOA and deeded access to the 310-acre skiable Bear Lake, this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers the perfect combination of privacy, space, and Florida living. The backyard is truly the showstopper. An over sized screened lanai surrounds a sparkling
Entertain year-round in your private backyard retreat featuring a screened lanai with a built-in bar, sparkling pool, fire pit, and sauna (the sauna may be removed prior to closing in exchange for a credit). Major updates have already been completed, including a newer roof, HVAC system, water heater, and garage door opener, allowing you to enjoy your new home with peace of mind instead of
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
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
*PRICED TO SELL* Welcome to The Cove at Pearl Lake, a peaceful, gated, lakefront condominium community nestled in the Altamonte Springs area. This 2 Bed, 2 Bath, FIRST-FLOOR condo(NO STAIRS GOING TO OR IN THE UNIT) features a bright, open floor plan that’s perfect for everyday living or entertaining. The upgraded kitchen features a stunning tile backsplash, granite countertops, matching
Charming Forest Edge at Country Creek community, updated 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath, two-story contemporary home offers an open floor plan with a separate office/den, perfect for the work from home space! Recent improvements include new bathrooms, led lighting, ceiling fans, updated electrical, all-new plumbing and fixtures, hot water heater, refrigerator, microwave, interior and exterior paint, new
JUST REDUCED $10k TOTAL LAKEVIEW & Brand NEW AC. Come see this Beautiful LAKEVIEW Condo and the lifestyle it brings. Pictures do not do justice to this cozy "Gated" community Condo with 2 beds & 2 baths, with gorgeous Engineered wood floors throughout the LR, Kitchen with TIMELESS white Cabinets & SS Appliances. The DR, and Hallways that lead to comfy carpet in the bedrooms...and AMAZING LAKE
Excellent income-producing opportunity in the highly desirable Altamonte Springs market. This 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condominium is currently tenant-occupied and generating rent per month, providing immediate and stable cash flow from day one.The unit features a functional open floor plan with abundant natural light and is located on the third floor, offering added privacy within a quiet,
3.26 Acres in Altamonte Springs just north of 436. Seminole County Lot Research Report indicates property is located in a FEMA Regulated Special Flood Hazard Area and that there are Wetlands on the property. The land is surrounded on all sides by homes and is zoned R-1A (residential.) It is addressed as Virginia Drive on the property appraiser's site but has frontage on Dot Drive. According to
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5 bath townhome offering 1,557 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space in the highly sought-after Woodbridge at Country Creek community. The inviting floor plan features the convenience of an attached 2-car garage, spacious living and dining areas with cathedral ceilings and natural light creating the perfect setting for everyday
Set on an expansive 0.61-acre corner lot with no HOA, this property gives you rare space and flexibility in a location this convenient: room for a pool, RV/boat storage, a workshop, or simply the privacy of mature Florida landscaping most homes in the area can’t provide. Inside, the open, light-filled layout flows from a fully updated kitchen — complete with sleek quartz countertops — into
Amazing Multi-Generational Pool Home, with Over 1/2 Acre, in the heart of Lake Brantley School Zone, Now Available! This is a truly unique property that has been in the same family since it was built. With approx 4200sf of heated living area and a total of 6 Bedrooms and 4 Bathrooms, there is plenty of Room to Spread Out. The main home is a 4/3 with an open concept kitchen/dining/den area,
Virtually Staged. Seller will pay $10,000 towards buyers closing costs. Welcome to an extraordinary executive estate nestled within the prestigious gated community of Ballentyne, just moments from the natural beauty of Bear Lake. Perfectly designed for luxurious living and effortless entertaining, this stunning residence offers an impressive blend of elegance, comfort, and expansive living
Beautifully Updated Condo That Lives Like a Townhome! Welcome to maintenance-free living without sacrificing space, style, or comfort. This beautifully updated 2 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom condo offers over 1,300 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space with soaring two-story ceilings, modern finishes, and an inviting layout that feels more Like a townhome than a traditional condominium. The
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 in the top-rated Seminole County School District and next to Mirror Lake, our Apopka, FL apartments surround you with the scenery of lakeside living. Upscale features like granite countertops and lakeside views will make you proud to call any of our studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments for rent in Apopka home. Convenience to grocery shops, retail, and restaurants makes
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
Finding the right apartment home to fit your needs has never been easier. Our community offers five spacious floor plans to choose from. Designed with your comfort in mind, our apartment homes feature fully equipped contemporary kitchens, an in-home washer & dryer, walk-in closets, and ample storage space.Verandahs at Hunt Club features luxury community amenities suited for your active lifestyle.
NEWLY RENOVATED UNITS! Set your sights on serenity. Nestled in a lush suburban grove at Altamonte, The Laurel offers an alluring retreat just a short drive from the exciting and vibrant energy of Orlando. Dive into our resort-style pool or spend a sunny afternoon with your four-legged friend in our brand new dog park, our vast amenity package was designed to complement every lifestyle. Inspired
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the holding fee agreement is signed and the holding fee is paid by the primary applicant.Coming soon! This home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. Please respect their privacy and do not disturb. You can complete the application process and reserve
Beautiful, pet-friendly home coming soon! Apply now — available date is tentative and move-in will be scheduled within 5–10 days of the home being ready. Upon approval, $500 reservation deposit to reserve (applied to security deposit and/or refundable). Application fee: $55 per adult. Security Deposit: one month's rent. Pet fees: $250 + $40/mo per pet. Some homes may include pool ($150/mo),
Lease this home and get more from Invitation Homes professional property management. This home comes fully loaded with quality amenities, must-have services, high-end tech and ProCare® professional maintenance. Your estimated total monthly payment is $2579.90. That covers your base rent, $2435.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Internet
This newly renovated 2-bedroom 2 story townhome in the Wekiva Reserve Community is a beauty. This townhome has been completely renovated with wall-to-wall luxury vinyl flooring, new cabinets in the kitchen and baths, stone tops, brand new washer and dryer INCLUDED IN THE RENT, and new stainless steel appliances. As you walk into the home the vaulted ceilings and large windows welcome you. The
Apply now or schedule your self-tour today and take the first step toward getting more than just a place to live. Rent with FirstKey Homes for a home that's right for you, plus professional service and maintenance, innovative resident programs, and more; that's the power of purple! This 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom rental home in Apopka, FL, has a lot to offer; does it check all your boxes? See the
Welcome to this delightful 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment located in the heart of Altamonte Springs. This beautiful property offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a serene lifestyle in a prime location. Nestled in Altamonte Springs, this apartment is situated close to shopping centers, dining options, parks, and excellent
Armelio Fernandez Aponte, SrDOVER INTERNATIONAL CO., INC.
Gated community in Altamonte Springs! This 3-bedroom, 2-bath second-floor condo is conveniently located near SR 436 and SR 434. Features include tile flooring throughout, a fully equipped kitchen, covered carport, fitness center, and community pool. Close to shopping, dining, and major roadways. NOTE: Separate HOA approval may take up to 15 days. All residents are enrolled in the Resident
Based around a scenic recreational lake, Forest City might not actually be a city, but nonetheless has much to offer for folks looking for a home in Central Florida.
Forest City is close to the suburban municipalities of Altamonte Springs and Apopka. Once a center of Florida’s signature citrus industry, the Forest City area has since become a residential haven serving commuters near more populous commercial city centers, including downtown Orlando, less than 10 miles away. “It’s an established community that really started coming together around the 1970s,” says Todd Schroth, a real estate agent with eXp Realty based in Altamonte Springs. “It’s kind of like a city within a city with Altamonte Springs there. It’s got top-of-the-line schools, lots of shopping and a community feel. Once we move in we don’t move out.” With Bear Lake at the center and spanning more than 300 acres, the natural feature makes Forest City an even more appealing place to live, offering opportunities for swimming, boating, jet skiing and other fun, exciting and relaxing activities.
As an almost exclusively residential area, Forest City has a plethora of condos, family homes in subdivisions, gated communities, retirement homes and ranch-style houses, with prices reflecting the architectural diversity. Home prices start at around $150,000 for condos in gated communities near one of Altamonte Springs larger shopping centers. Closer to Bear Lake and the smaller ponds and lagoons scattered throughout the community, older bungalows and ranch-style homes range from around $250,000 to $350,000. Still with ample space for development and growth, the community also features some spacious, contemporary builds with homes around 2,500 to 3,500 square feet. Prospective buyers can expect to pay between $400,000 to $800,000 for those properties.
Forrest City includes the public Bear Lake Elementary School and Teague Middle School. Niche gives both schools in the Seminole County Public Schools district a B-plus. From there, students can advance to Lake Brantley High School, which earns an A-minus rating from Niche. At the high school, students can choose from 35 different Advance Placement courses and participate in in various clubs and activities, including dual enrollment in the Academy of Construction Technology, the Academy of Finance and the Aerospace Science JROTC program. Additionally, the Altamonte Springs campus of Seminole State College is adjacent to the neighborhood.
Bear Lake is partly accessible through the Bear Lake Clubhouse, a family-friendly recreation area with covered picnic areas, docks for boats, lawn chairs on the beaches, playground areas for small children and even pool tables. Hanging out in the water swimming or jet skiing is also exciting but Schroth advises caution. “I’ve been on that lake since 1990, and I haven’t been bit by a gator yet,” he says. “You just need to be careful.” For fun out of the sun, the community also has a large number of indoor athletic venues, from The Athlete Factory training facility and the Altamonte American Karate Academy to the batting cages at the All Stars Sportsplex and the indoor trampolines at Rebounderz Orlando. These entertainment options give casual exercisers and athletes-in-training access to workout space and equipment, each with a different flavor of activity.
Local shopping options include strip malls at Hunt Club Corners and West Town Corners, featuring major retailers such as Costco and Publix. For a wider selection of organic groceries, the Sprouts Farmers Market store is open 7 days per week at the Wekiva Riverwalk. In addition to a few national retailers and sit-down restaurants, the shopping center includes a Regal movie theater. While there are plenty of fast-food and casual franchise restaurants all around Forest City, folks can also patronize local family-owned eateries and shops serving international cuisines and goods, such as Sherry’s Trini Flavors and La Granja.
State Route 436, in the north of Forest City, links the area to both Apopka and Altamonte Springs. Interstate 4 in the east provides drivers with quick access to Orlando, so Bear Lake is well-situated for commuters looking for a quiet, sunny home in a bedroom community.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Forest City Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
14,115
Median Age
41
Population under 18
22.3%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
18.4%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$70,550
Below the national average
$79,597
Average Household Income
$104,426
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
92.7%
On par with the national average
89%
College Graduates
39.1%
On par with the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
11.4%
% 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
Fairly walkable
Walkability®
40/ 100
Minimal public transit
Transit®
10/ 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.
