🌍 Overview
As a seasoned digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Orlando home for a while, and I must say, it’s a city that will surprise you. While many think of Orlando as just a theme park destination, it has a lot to offer remote workers and digital nomads. The city has a vibrant atmosphere, with a mix of cultural events, outdoor activities, and a growing community of like-minded individuals. Orlando digital nomads will find that the city’s warm weather, plenty of coworking spaces, and relatively low cost of living make it an attractive destination. However, it’s essential to look beyond the surface and understand what makes Orlando tick.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood in Orlando, digital nomads have several options to consider. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Winter Park: This charming suburb is about 20 minutes northeast of downtown Orlando. It’s known for its beautiful parks, lakes, and scenic walking trails. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Winter Park averages around $1,400-$1,600 per month (approximately $1,800-$2,000 CAD or €1,500-€1,700).
- Milk District: Located just east of downtown Orlando, the Milk District is a trendy neighborhood with a mix of art galleries, restaurants, and bars. It’s a great spot for digital nomads who want to be close to the action. A one-bedroom apartment in the Milk District can cost between $1,200-$1,500 per month (around $1,500-$1,900 CAD or €1,200-€1,600).
- Lake Eola: This downtown neighborhood is centered around the beautiful Lake Eola park. It’s a popular spot for walking, jogging, and people-watching. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the Lake Eola area averages around $1,600-$2,000 per month (approximately $2,000-$2,500 CAD or €1,700-€2,200).
- Thornton Park: This charming neighborhood is just east of downtown Orlando and is known for its beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and vibrant nightlife. A one-bedroom apartment in Thornton Park can cost between $1,400-$1,800 per month (around $1,800-$2,300 CAD or €1,500-€2,000).
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Orlando is relatively low compared to other major cities in the United States. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses for digital nomads:
- Rent: As mentioned earlier, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Orlando is around $1,533 per month (approximately $1,900 CAD or €1,600).
- Food: Eating out in Orlando can be relatively affordable, with meals starting from around $10-$15 per person (around $13-$19 CAD or €11-€16). Groceries are also reasonably priced, with a week’s worth of basic items costing around $50-$75 per person (approximately $65-$95 CAD or €55-€80).
- Transportation: Orlando has a decent public transportation system, with a single bus fare costing $2 (around $2.50 CAD or €2.20). A monthly pass can be purchased for around $50 (approximately $65 CAD or €55).
- Coworking: Coworking spaces in Orlando typically cost between $200-$500 per month (around $250-$650 CAD or €220-€550) for a dedicated desk.
Internet & Coworking
Orlando digital nomads will find that the city has a decent internet infrastructure, with average speeds of 43 Mbps. There are also plenty of coworking spaces and cafes with reliable internet. Some popular coworking spaces include:
- StarterStudio: Located in the downtown area, StarterStudio offers a range of membership options, including dedicated desks and private offices.
- CoLab: With multiple locations throughout the city, CoLab provides a collaborative workspace for entrepreneurs and remote workers.
- Factory: This coworking space in the Milk District offers a unique, industrial-chic environment with plenty of natural light and amenities.
Some popular cafes for working remotely include:
- The Coffee Shop: Located in the Lake Eola area, this cafe serves excellent coffee and has plenty of seating and outlets.
- Lineage Coffee Roasting: With multiple locations throughout the city, Lineage Coffee Roasting offers a cozy atmosphere and high-quality coffee.
- Deeply Coffee: This specialty coffee shop in the Milk District is a great spot for remote workers, with plenty of seating and a relaxed vibe.
Orlando has a growing community of digital nomads and remote workers. There are several meetups and events throughout the city, including:
- Orlando Digital Nomads: This Facebook group is a great resource for connecting with other remote workers and finding out about events and meetups.
- Remote Workers of Orlando: This meetup group hosts regular events and gatherings for remote workers and digital nomads.
- Tech Orlando: This organization hosts various events and conferences for the tech industry, including startup pitch competitions and networking events.
Culture & Lifestyle
Orlando has a unique cultural scene, with a mix of artistic and outdoor activities. Some popular attractions include:
- Orlando Science Center: This interactive science museum is a great spot for families and individuals interested in science and technology.
- Orlando Museum of Art: Located in downtown Orlando, this museum features a collection of American and African art, as well as rotating exhibits.
- Wekiwa Springs State Park: Just north of Orlando, this park offers beautiful hiking trails, natural springs, and opportunities for kayaking and canoeing.
The food scene in Orlando is also worth exploring, with a range of cuisines available, from Southern comfort food to international flavors. Some popular restaurants include:
- The Coop: This fried chicken joint in the East End Market is a must-try for any foodie.
- Kadence: Located in the Audubon Park neighborhood, Kadence offers a unique, omakase-style dining experience.
- The Polite Pig: This barbecue restaurant in the Disney Springs area serves up delicious meats and sides.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to ensure you have the necessary visa to work in the United States. The most common visa for remote workers is the B-2 visa, which is typically issued for tourism or business purposes. However, it’s essential to note that working on a B-2 visa is not allowed, and you may need to apply for a different type of visa, such as the O-1 visa for individuals with extraordinary abilities. It’s recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips for digital nomads living in Orlando:
- SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card from most major carriers, including Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Prices start from around $30 per month (approximately $38 CAD or €33) for a basic plan.
- Transportation: Orlando has a decent public transportation system, including buses and the SunRail commuter train. You can also use ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft.
- Safety: Orlando is generally a safe city, but as with any major urban area, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure your safety. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas at night, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
- Weather: Orlando has a subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. Be sure to pack accordingly, and stay hydrated during the summer months.
