A name like Mount Dora might seem out of place in the country’s flattest state, but the moniker is a nod to the original settlement’s location on a lakefront plateau roughly 180 feet above sea level. Today, the city of around 18,000 sprawls across a beautiful landlocked waterfront in Lake County, Florida, roughly 40 miles northwest of Orlando. The elevated area has long since blossomed into a beloved downtown, where annual festivals are held, and family-owned restaurants like Pisces Rising overlook the 4,385-acre Lake Dora. “The lake is a big draw, and people spend a lot of time on it,” says longtime local Robin Costoplos, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Vanguard Realty. “We have some of the best bass fishing in the state, and they host a lot of big-name tournaments like Bassmasters.” Blending rural fun and small-town charm, Mount Dora offers uniquely beautiful scenery and a close-knit community.
Mount Dora's Lake Dora is part of the Harris Chain of Lakes in Lake County.
Mount Dora's quaint down town shops are always bustling year-round with shoppers.
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Orange roots in the citrus industry
In its transition from homestead to town, Mount Dora put down roots in the citrus industry's orange groves. Today, the city’s leading industry is healthcare. Various medical facilities, including UF and HCA emergency care centers, are around the city, as well as several veterinarian practices. Education and construction are other leading industries, and tourism also stimulates the local economy.
Mount Dora's leading industry is health Care.
There are various medical facilities in Mount Dora including UF and HCA emergency care centers.
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Downtown Mount Dora
Downtown Mount Dora is the heartbeat of the city. The walkable, brick-accented streets are lined by mature live oaks, some towering high above with Spanish moss. The restaurants and shops are bustling year-round, though hot, muggy summers tend to slow the rush. Downtown holds dozens of festivals yearly, but none draw as big a crowd as the Mount Dora Arts Festival. Going into its 50th year, this creative celebration attracts more than 200,000 visitors annually and features artists from around the world. The only local event that rivals its popularity is the annual Antiques and Collectors Extravaganza, hosted by Renniger’s Flea Market and Antique Center. Over 800 vendors set up on the city’s east side with collectibles, vintage items, antiques and more.
Mount Dora's Art Festival is one of the biggest in the nation and draws huge crowds.
Renniger’s Flea Market and it's events also rivals the Mount Dora Art Festival.
Residents and visitors always visit the Mount Dora Village Market every Sunday.
Pisces Rising is an eclectic seafood and steak restaurant in Mount Dora.
Crowds of people come to shop the little unique stores in Mount Dora.
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Historic homes downtown in Mount Dora
The median home price in Mount Dora is just under $446,000, roughly $25,000 more than the national average. As a small city with a lot going on, Mount Dora’s historic downtown – full of vintage properties and hip restaurants – is one of the most sought-after places to live. The early-20th-century properties in this walkable lakeside area display a variety of styles, from classic Frame Vernacular, ranch-style and cottage homes to stucco-sided Spanish Revivals and cozy Craftsman bungalows. “Homes don’t sell much downtown, and when they do people snatch them up quick,” Costoplos says. Condos came in the late 1970s and ‘80s, and in the early 2000s and 2010s, the development of New Traditional master-planned subdivisions took over the far east side. New construction on that side of town is still going strong as the city prepares to create the Wolf Branch Innovation District, an 850-acre multiuse project. The development is slated to bring more multifamily housing as well as employment opportunities through a new hospital, flex office-industrial space and much more.
Despite Mount Dora’s central Florida location and uniquely high elevation, flood insurance is strongly recommended. Prospective homebuyers should be aware of their potential property’s flood zone and the risk of hurricane season, which ranges from early June to the end of November.
Mount Dora is one of the most sought-after places to live, especially for lakeside living.
There are many types of Spanish Revival homes scattered around Mount Dora.
Cozy Craftsman bungalows are very sought after in Mount Dora, it adds to the charm of the City.
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Palm Island Park
Mount Dora is home to many parks, from neighborhood playgrounds to sporty hubs like the 35-acre Lincoln Avenue Community Park. Palm Island Park is one of the city’s more unique green spaces. The lakefront nature preserve features tall cabbage palms and bald cypress trees, whisking visitors away to old Florida. From the boardwalk, folks often spy baby alligators and turtles sunning themselves on rocks or migratory birds soaring above. Even more options for outdoor fun are just outside the city, throughout surrounding conservation areas, waterways and state parks.
Palm Island park is full of trails and beautiful wildlife and and scenery.
Bald cypress trees line the shores of Mount Dora's Lake Dora.
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Lake County Schools and a popular private choice
The city is served by Lake County Schools, which Niche grades B and ranks as the third-best school district in the Orlando area. While students may start at one of several elementary schools, Mount Dora Middle, graded B-minus, and Mount Dora High, graded B, are the city’s zone schools. Mount Dora Christian Academy is a standout private option. The school is graded A-minus and is home to the Biomedical Sciences Institute, a four-year program for students interested in learning about professional healthcare.
Mount Dora Christian Academy currently serves more than 870 students from preschool - 12.
Mt. Dora High School is a B public school located in Mount Dora.
Mt. Dora Middle School is B- public school located in Mount Dora.
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Highway 441 and the LakeXpress
U.S. 441 is the main route in and out of Mount Dora. The highway leads straight into the heart of Orlando, about 30 miles southeast. It’s also the fastest way to the county seat, Taveras, just west of Mount Dora on the lake’s northern shores. Public transit is available through the county’s LakeXpress bus line.
Mount Dora Police Department is the First in the Nation
The title “First in the Nation” is printed on the sides of Mount Dora police vehicles, commemorating the department’s history as the country’s first fully accredited law enforcement agency. The Mount Dora Police Department holds Excelsior status, the highest level of accreditation in Florida. Crime in the city has steadily decreased since the turn of the century. While crime stats specific to the city are unavailable, Lake County has seen a significant decrease in violent crime.
Written By
Micaela Willoughby
Photography Contributed By
Stephen Flint
Video By
Adam Barkley
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Debbie Martin,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Mount Dora, FL sell after 81 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Mount Dora, FL over the last 12 months is $445,000, up 9% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Short Sale. Set on a spacious 0.40 acre corner lot, 4897 Gilded Jewel Dr. features a resort-style saltwater pool and spa with plenty of room to relax, entertain, and enjoy your own private backyard setup. Inside, you’ll find 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and a dedicated office with a functional open layout, 9'4" ceilings, 8' doors, and great natural
Motivated seller! Welcome to this well-maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offering a functional layout, added privacy, and a strong value position in one of Mount Dora’s growing communities. The open-concept design creates a seamless flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas—ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel
Welcome to effortless Florida living in the highly sought after gated 55+ community of Lakes of Mount Dora. This vibrant, amenity rich neighborhood is known for its active lifestyle, beautifully maintained grounds, and strong sense of community. Situated on the water, this immaculately maintained one story residence offers both elegance and functionality with a thoughtfully designed split floor
Welcome to 4520 Claire Rose Court, nestled in the exclusive Dora Estates—where elegance, privacy, and lifestyle come together. As you pass through the community’s impressive monument entrance, a picturesque drive lined with a tranquil pond, fountain, and decorative wrought-iron benches sets the tone for what awaits. Tucked at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this exceptional residence makes a
NEW PRICE! Upgraded 3-Bedroom + DEN Built in 2023. Why wait for new construction when you can move right into this beautifully upgraded home in Summerbrooke, one of Mount Dora’s most desirable communities! Built in 2023, Margate model also includes a flexible den—ideal as a home OFFICE, bonus room, or guest space—and offers 1,966 square feet of well-designed living space. With GAS APPLIANCES, and
Prime location! This move-in ready 3BR/3BA block home sits on a corner lot with a spacious backyard and no HOA. Enjoy the convenience of being less than 5 minutes from shopping, groceries, dining, and more. The home features fresh interior and exterior paint, new roof, a new hot water heater, and an air conditioning system updated in 2023. Don’t miss this great opportunity!!
Sullivan Ranch 55+ Villa | Priced at $305,000 Experience low-maintenance living in the gated 55+ section of Sullivan Ranch, one of Mount Dora’s most established communities. This three-bedroom, two-bathroom villa is set along tree-lined streets with rolling hills and nearby green space, offering a comfortable and convenient lifestyle. Open and Practical Floor PlanThe home features high
Wow! $163 a square foot for this Immaculate 5 Bedroom 2,696 Square Foot Home Near Orlando in Mount Dora-Built 2024, Stunning Hayden Model: 5 Bedroom 3 Full Bath + Office + Upstairs Loft...Ready for Immediate Occupancy. Built 2024! Full Block Construction. Open Kitchen Features Quartz Counter Tops + All Appliances + Samsung Washer/Dryer. 1st Floor Bedroom. Interior Decorator Paint. Smart Home
Just off the shores of the Harris Chain of Lakes & Historic Downtown Mount Dora is the nostalgic community Sullivan Ranch. Embracing the hilly topography of Lake County, this neighborhood has such a beautiful landscape. Enjoy miles of scenic walking trails, a dog park, splash pad & playgrounds surrounded by tropical landscape and soaring tree lined streets. The exquisite 5,000 square foot
Welcome to a home that truly has room for it all. Built in 2024, this stunning Wellington model in the sought after Summerbrooke community blends modern design, thoughtful upgrades, and effortless Florida living into one unforgettable space. From the moment you step inside, soaring high ceilings and an open, airy layout set the tone. Natural light pours in, highlighting the beautiful finishes and
Mount Dora Pool Home Under $460,000 — Space, Updates, and Value! If you’ve been searching for a home that offers space, comfort, and real value, this is it. This 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath pool home in Mount Dora features over 2,500 square feet of well-planned living space, including a formal dining area, large kitchen, and spacious living areas designed for both daily living and easy entertaining.
Is there a 4-bedroom home in Mount Dora with a private apartment and no HOA? Welcome to 5521 Oak Street, a fully renovated property offering rare flexibility with a separate 1-bedroom, 1-bath private apartment. With its own entrance, full kitchen, spacious living area, large custom closet, and beautifully designed bathroom, the apartment lives like an entirely independent home. This setup is
**PRICE IMPROVEMENT** Come and experience the Best of Mount Dora living at Sullivan Ranch! This custom-built home in a GATED COMMUNITY is where elegance meets everyday comfort! Upon entry, you will find all bedrooms on the first floor with a split floorplan design and open-concept that showcases a gourmet kitchen with designer finishes that include a gas cooktop with pot-filler and
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. PRICE REDUCED. Welcome to this move-in-ready, updated 2-bedroom, 2-bath condominium located in the Southern Oaks community in historic Mount Dora. From the heated pool to the quick walk to Mount Dora events, this is the place to be! Step inside to a light-filled entry that opens to a freshly painted living and dining area featuring crown molding and
Beautifully crafted single level cottage style home located about a half mile from downtown Mount Dora. This custom residence blends comfort and sophistication with Thermador luxury appliances, quartz countertops, a farmhouse sink, upgraded cabinetry, and an open layout anchored by a stone accented gas fireplace. The spacious primary suite offers a spa inspired bath with a freestanding tub and
Stylish Single-Story Home in Guard-Gated Stoneybrook Hills – Solar Powered, Spacious, and Move-In Ready! Welcome to your ideal Florida retreat in the heart of Mount Dora’s premier guard-gated community—Stoneybrook Hills. This beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom single-story home offers a perfect blend of elegant living and modern efficiency, complete with solar panels, an oversized
Looking for a nice rental with a garage? Check out this 2 bedroom 2 bath duplex in Mount Dora! Nice sized kitchen with dishwasher and good counter space! Nice floor plan with dining room adjacent to the kitchen and living room. 1 car garage with washer/dryer hookup. Come check it out!
Priscilla Atkins-BryantATKINS REALTY OF LAKE COUNTY
Yardly® Mount Dora is an innovative community by Taylor Morrison that elevates apartment living through a thoughtful blend of form and function. In addition to attractive community amenities, we offer maintenance and repair services to our renters, which allows for a low-maintenance lifestyle. All pets are welcome at Yardly with no weight or breed restrictions, and each home comes with a
5827 Tarleton Way #2, This great 4/3/3 SFH has a Split bedroom plan with a private master. Master has a large walk-in closet. The Master bath has a walk-in shower and separate tub, twin sinks. Well-appointed kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite counters. Family room, living room, and dining room. Washer and dryer included. Screen porch. Large fully fenced yard. Close to shopping.
Greg MannBETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE MANN GLOBAL P
Hammock Oaks is an established apartment community located in the heart of the ever-expanding area of Mount Dora, Florida. Nestled on Lake Center Drive, Hammock Oaks features amazing recreational facilities to fit your lifestyle. Discover your new home in one of the spacious 1, 2 or 3 bedroom floor plans!
Mount Dora Condo for Rent! Experience the charm of downtown living in this move in ready 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo located in the desirable Southern Oaks—a 55+ community nestled in Mount Dora's Historic District. This 2nd floor condo offers pool and sunset views, with easy access to the boutique shops, restaurants, parks and waterfront. Walk or take a free shuttle to the heart of Mount Dora's
Located on the shores of beautiful Lake Saunders in Mount Dora, FL, Lake Saunders Reserve is the perfect combination of tranquility and convenience. Experience unrivaled, serene lakeside living at an affordable price. Lake Saunders Reserve is proud to provide apartment homes for those who are 55 and older*You’ve waited long enough for a modern apartment home with the finishes you expect
$2,389 per month
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,846 Sq Ft
Take a look at this beautiful home, Clean and Move-In Ready, featuring 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms,2 car garage and approximately 1,846heated square feet. Enjoy the freedom of a virtually maintenance free lifestyle while residing in a great community. Smart Home Tech - $21.95/mo; Washer/Dryer - $35/mo; High Speed Cable/Internet (if applicable by 3rd Party user) $55/mo; Renters insurance reqrd, Pool
Located near the shores of beautiful Lake Saunders in Mount Dora, FL, The Residences at Lake Saunders is the perfect combination of tranquility and convenience, offering brand-new 3 and 4 bedroom single-family homes and 1 bedroom accessory suite rentals. Here, youll enjoy the comfort and privacy of a spacious, beautifully crafted home with the flexibility and benefits of rental
Close enough to the action, yet far enough away to really feel like home, Mount Dora Estates is a well-maintained, professionally managed manufactured home community. Right now, Mount Dora Estates is offering a classic 164 model year, 560 sq. ft., 2 bed/1 bath home for an amazing price! Contact our representatives to schedule a viewing of this amazing retro home and learn about our promotional
Bristol Lakes Apartments is located in highly desirable Mount Dora right off of US-441 across from the Mount Dora Country Club; come experience lifestyle living and enjoy what all of Mount Dora has to offer from its antique shops in its historic downtown to its annual festivals and outdoor lifestyle. Our thoughtfully designed and spacious 1 and 2 bedroom apartments offer smooth flow and function
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