Orlando’s tourist attractions are front and center in Universal
Universal’s name comes from Universal Orlando Resort, the collection of world-famous theme parks at the heart of the neighborhood. International Drive, a roadway of miniature golf courses, amusement rides and souvenir shops, passes through the community, and SeaWorld Orlando is next door. Tourist attractions are the neighborhood’s main draw for visitors, as well as residents who work in the hospitality industry or want to visit the theme parks on a whim. Other locals avoid the theme parks entirely, enjoying features such as Orange Tree Golf Club and the highly rated Dr. Phillips High School.
Islands of Adventure is one of Universal Orlando Resort's theme parks.
Residential communities are just minutes away from the neighborhood's theme parks.
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Single-story homes are common across Universal.
Neighborhoods include single-family subdivisions and condo resorts
Universal encompasses thousands of single-family homes and condos that attract permanent residents and people who want a second home. Neighborhoods include:
Orange Tree: The Orange Tree Golf Club course is the centerpiece of this gated subdivision.
Tangelo Park: Midcentury ranch-style homes fill this development where a new community center will open in summer 2026.
Vista Cay Resort: Residents of this condo community get access to poolside bars, a lakeside jogging trail, a kid’s waterpark and more.
Windhover: This development features low-rise condo buildings and a community pool.
Condo prices typically vary from the low $100,000s to the upper $200,000s, though Vista Cay units sell from the mid-$300,000s to the mid-$600,000s. Single-family homes in Tangelo Park sell from the low $200,000s to the low $300,000s. Elsewhere, prices start from the low $400,000s to the low $700,000s. Prices for large homes and lakeside properties climb higher, oftentimes surpassing $1 million.
Pointe Orlando is a vibrant, outdoor dining and entertainment complex right off of I-Drive.
Pros and cons of living in a tourism hub
There are those who travel internationally to visit Orlando's theme parks, but locals get to experience them after a short drive. Joseph Newstreet, an eXp Realtor who sells homes in Orange Tree, says locals joke that “if you want to be a tourist, you go five minutes away.” But life doesn’t always revolve around the theme parks, he adds. “I have quite a few friends who have never been to the parks in years. I have three little kids, and we’re there every week.” At Vista Cay Resort, condo owners sometimes rent their units to vacationers and business travelers, says Gabriela Buche, a Realtor with Vista Cay Realty. "The beauty of the [Vista Cay] community is the fact that even though it’s a resort, you can use it as Airbnb investment property, long-term rental or a residence. There are no restrictions whatsoever."
Residents get to enjoy the shopping and entertainment complexes built in the area to cater to tourists. Orlando International Premium Outlets has nearly 200 stores, and The Mall at Millenia features luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Dolce & Gabbana. The Pointe Orlando, a dining and shopping center, hosts comedians and live music at its various restaurants, clubs and bars.
There can be drawbacks caused by the millions of visitors the area receives every year. Traffic can clog roads such as Interstate 4. However, Newstreet says locals know how to avoid the congested roads tourists use. “You can go on Interstate 4, but you don’t have to. We have all sorts of side streets.”
Interstate 4 leads to downtown Orlando, Tampa and more
Drivers can hop on Interstate 4 from the neighborhood and get across Orlando to downtown. The 10-mile drive usually doesn’t take more than 25 minutes. The 12-mile drive to Orlando International Airport can last up to 30 minutes. Interstate 4 extends from Florida’s east coast to its west coast. Drivers can use it to reach New Smyrna Beach, about 60 miles away, and Tampa, nearly 80 miles away.
Nearby employers include Universal Studios, Lockheed Martin
The neighborhood economy focuses on tourism and hospitality, but technology and health care companies in the area also employ thousands. The following employers are within 5 miles of the neighborhood:
Universal Orlando Resort: More than 20,000 people work at Universal’s theme parks, water park and hotels.
International Drive: About 100,000 people work at the hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions lining this road, commonly called I-Drive.
Lockheed Martin: The defense contractor has thousands of employees at its Missiles and Fire Control campus off South Kirkman Road.
Orlando Health: Orlando’s fourth-largest employer, Orlando Health operates Dr. P. Phillips Hospital just outside the neighborhood.
Dr. Phillips High School is a highly rated option for local students.
Two magnet programs at Dr. Phillips High School
Orange County Public Schools serves the neighborhood, which touches an elementary, middle and high school campus. “Most parents pick their kids up in golf carts,” Newstreet says. Universal is home to the highly rated Dr. Phillips High School. The school hosts two magnet programs: the Center for International Studies and Visual and Performing Arts. The former emphasizes Advanced Placement social studies courses and tasks students with taking four years of a foreign language. The Visual and Performing Arts program encompasses dance, music, theater and TV and film production. Parents and students can apply to the lottery-based magnet programs between October and December.
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
Are you familiar with the Universal neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Universal
US
Homicide
2
4
Sexual Assault
4
4
Assault with Weapon
4
4
Robbery
4
4
Burglary
5
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
5
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
4
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Universal Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Universal, Orlando sell after 77 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Universal, Orlando over the last 12 months is $440,000, up 13% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
One or more photo(s) has been virtually staged. Welcome to your dream home in the heart of historic Dr. Phillips, inside the exclusive gated community of Orange Tree Country Club. This immaculate 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence blends farmhouse charm with modern luxury. Originally renovated in 2020 by Akers Custom Homes and thoughtfully updated again in 2022, no detail has been overlooked. This
LOCATION** LOCATION** LOCATION! Seller is offering one full year of ***AHS HOME WARRANTY***Experience the perfect blend of location, comfort, and opportunity in this beautifully positioned residence just minutes from Universal Studios, Epic Universe, Walt Disney World, Downtown Orlando, and Orlando International Airport. With top-rated schools and NO HOA, NO CDD. This property offers both
Positioned in the heart of Dr. Phillips within the sought-after Sand Pines Estates community, this spacious single-story pool home presents a rare opportunity to secure one of the larger floorplans in the neighborhood at a compelling value.The split-bedroom layout and multiple living areas offer flexibility for multi-generational living, home office setups, or evolving lifestyle needs.
Prime Location Near Universal Studios and the New Epic Universe Theme Park!Welcome to the Enclave at Orlando Resort, where this updated, fully furnished first-floor studio with pool views is ready for its next owner. Thoughtfully upgraded with stylish new furniture, fresh paint, and a completely remodeled bathroom, this turn-key condo is perfect for immediate use as a short-term rental or
WELCOME HOME TO THIS METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED, UPDATED SINGLE-STORY HOME offering 3 BEDROOMS AND 2 BATHROOMS with important upgrades already completed. The home features a NEW ROOF (2020) and NEW A/C SYSTEM (2020) WITH WARRANTY, providing long-term value and peace of mind. Inside, you’ll find MODERN UPDATES THROUGHOUT that reflect the home’s meticulous care and create a clean, move-in-ready
Welcome to Point Orlando Resort where this 9th floor, fully furnished 2 bedroom condo awaits you as a luxury vacation home or as an investment property. This Resort is THE investment opportunity for 2025 and beyond - next to Universal Studios, close to the newly opened Universal Epic Universe Theme park. In reality this is more than a 2 bedroom condo - the property includes two separate living
Welcome to Point Orlando Resort where this 6th floor, DIRECT POOLVIEW, fully furnished 2 bedroom condo awaits you as a luxury vacation home or as an investment property. This Resort is THE investment opportunity for 2025 and beyond - next to Universal Studios, close to the newly opened Universal Epic Universe Theme park. In reality this is more than a 2 bedroom condo - the property includes two
Investor and savvy vacationer, this is the one for you! Welcome to Point Orlando Resort where this 11th floor, DIRECT POOLVIEW, fully furnished 2 bedroom condo awaits you as a luxury vacation home or as an investment property. This Resort is THE investment opportunity for 2025 and beyond - next to Universal Studios, close to the newly opened Universal Epic Universe Theme park. In reality this is
Prime location near Universal parks including Epic Universe new Theme Park! Welcome to Enclave at Orlando Resort, where this 2nd floor, water view and fully furnished Studio awaits you. This is the one to watch in 2025 and beyond with location, demand, and cash flow potential. Plus, you're about 20-minute drive to Disney and steps from International Drive, SeaWorld, the Convention Center, and top
Stunning Fully Furnished Vacation Condo in Vista Cay!!!This exceptional 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo is located in the highly sought-after "Vista Cay Community". Offered fully furnished with top-of-the-line modern furniture originally valued at $60,000—this unit includes all décor, accessories, and a fully equipped kitchen. The open and oversized great room is perfect for entertaining and
**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 6810 Hochad Drive in Orlando, Florida. This well maintained 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom home offers 1,672 square feet of heated living space designed for comfort and everyday living. Step inside to find a spacious
Welcome to Point Orlando Resort where this 9th floor, fully furnished 1 bedroom condo awaits you as a luxury vacation home or as an investment property. You cannot beat the location - close to Universal Studios, International Drive, the Orlando Convention Center, Seaworld, or Disney. From your private balcony you can even see Epic Universe afar, the new Universal Orlando Theme park! The Resort
Owner financing available** Come and view the one of the best priced units in the very well appointed Vista Cay community, at walking distance from the newly built EPIC universe park!. Experience resort style living right in the middle of Orlando, FL in this furnished 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo, new linens, with new tile floors and a new main bedroom shower, conveniently located on the 1st level.
Welcome to effortless Orlando living from the 11th floor of The Point Orlando Resort. This fully furnished 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo offers sweeping skyline views and a true turnkey experience with modern décor, updated furnishings, and in-unit laundry. Perfect as a personal getaway or income-producing asset, the unit is ready for immediate use. The location places you just minutes from Universal
Move-in ready and fully turnkey, this 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo offers an exceptional opportunity for investors, second-home buyers, or those seeking a flexible Orlando getaway in the heart of The Enclave. Ideally positioned along International Drive, the property combines resort-style living with strong short-term rental potential.The well-designed 583± sq ft layout features a bright, open living
Discover refined living in this elegant 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence located in the sought-after Winder Oaks community. Designed with comfort and style in mind, this home features soaring ceilings, expansive living spaces, and oversized windows that flood the interior with natural light. The gourmet kitchen offers abundant cabinetry, a breakfast bar, and a cozy nook for morning coffee. The
Reset your sense of home with a modern one, two, or three bedroom apartment at Deseo Grande. Brand new and perfectly positioned in Orlando near Universal Studios Florida, our stylish living spaces invite you into a luxury lifestyle in an exceptional urban setting. Brand new interiors feature an upscale kitchen with stainless-steel appliances and quartz countertops, while wood-style plank flooring
Extraordinary FULLY FURNISHED CORNER LOT Townhome with wood Flooring on first floor. This is a Beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-and a half bath townhome with attached 1-car garage in Dr. Phillips’ Vistas at Phillips Commons. This CORNER LOT home features a full-size open kitchen and large combination dining and family room, natural lighting is abundant thanks to a three-panel sliding glass door that leads
Legacy Universal is a new high-rise apartment community in the heart of downtown Orlando. Located just off I-4 at the intersection of Magnolia and Livingston, Legacy Universal features state-of-the-art amenities, ground-level shops and restaurants, and a pocket park at your doorstep. This innovative metropolitan design provides the convenience of urban living with the feel of a natural
Welcome to your fully furnished dream home in the great Premiere Gated Resort Community! This nice townhome is offering resort-style living every day. Over 1,777 sq. ft. with 3 bedrooms and 3 full baths +1 half bath, and one car garage, spread across three floors, this townhome is designed for optimal convenience. The first floor boasts a bedroom has a queen size bed with French doors leading to
Livano Grand National Apartments stands as a testament to sophistication and comfort. Our exclusive community offers an array of contemporary luxuries designed to cater to the most discerning tastes of its residents. Discover our beautifully designed studio, one, two, and three-bedroom layouts, luxury amenities, and resident-centric programming, and start living your way.
$1,600 per month
1 Bed
1 Bath
918 Sq Ft
Great Location by Kirkman road and Vineland Road. One bedroom, one bathroom condo, recently remodeled. Features brand-new appliances, including washer, dryer, refrigerator, microwave, oven, and new cabinets. Tile and wood flooring throughout. The primary bedroom is located on the second floor.Enjoy access to the community swimming pool and a prime location near Universal Studios, The Mall at
Essex Luxe Apartments offers upscale one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment homes for rent in an ideal Orlando location close to both work and play. Enjoy resort-inspired living with modern amenities, including the fully-equipped fitness center and spin studio, beautiful and functional resident clubhouse, and heated saltwater swimming pool. Each well-appointed apartment home offers quartz
Available as a nightly rental short and longterm. Contact agent for availability. Stay in the middle of all the action!! Located right across from the brand new Universal Epic Theme park...and centrally located just a couple miles to Disney World, SeaWorld, Aquatica, Volcano Bay, City Walk, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure! Additionally, America's Fun Spot close by and just around the
Level up in Orlando. The Grand delivers upscale living at the doorstep of Universal Studios. Picture premium everythingwith playful details that make you say okay, alright, I see what you did there. The Grand is a true original, living up to every square inch of its name. Vibrant interiors. Modern and innovative amenities. Captivating common spaces. And high-end apartments that look and feel like
Located just minutes from International Drive, Universal Studios, and the Orlando International Premium Outlets, this second-floor condo puts you right in the heart of everything, with great dining, shopping, and entertainment all close by. Inside, the 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom layout feels open and inviting thanks to the high ceilings and abundant natural light. The living area overlooks a peaceful
Welcome to Bainbridge Sand Lake, a modern oasis nestled on Lake Pat just off Universal Boulevard in Orlando. Surrounded by water and green space, this luxury community invites you to unwind in quiet courtyards, nap in the hammock garden, or host a watch party in the pool pavilion or private screening room. From billiards to a shuffleboard every detail is designed to spark joy and rejuvenation.
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