5 Newcomer Tips for Living in Orlando
Thousands of people move to Orlando each year and you are here because you are thinking about making the move. Well, do it. Orlando is a beautiful city in central Florida with something for everyone. Sports fan? We’ve got you covered. Nature lover? We have plenty of terrestrials and marine life here. Need to relocate to a warmer climate? We have more than enough sunshine and we are willing and ready to share it with you!
If you are planning an upcoming move to Orlando, here are 5 newcomer tips that should help you out once you get into town:
- Have multiple interviews lined up – If you’re not currently employed, it is always wise to send out your resumes before moving into town. This will not only give you a feel for what type of jobs are available in the city but may also get a few interviews lined up for once you get here. Assuming you land a few interviews, prioritize them and figure out which one you think will be best for you. The best part of this is, if one doesn’t work out the way you want, the next just may be the start of your new career.
- Know the cost of living – The cost of living in Orlando is one point lower than Florida’s average but is a bit higher than the national average. As the same goes with any upcoming move into a new city, you should have your financials set for at least the next six months before packing up and moving. Depending on you job and the lifestyle you live, in general, you can find a nice place in a decent area with nearby amenities and low crime rates.
- Prepare for the weather – The Atlantic hurricane season is officially kicks off from June 1 to November 30, that being said, it is always a good idea to have a plan if a big tropical storm is headed our way. News Channel 13 has created a Hurricane checklist to help prepare you for incoming tropical storms. If you are moving to Orlando from out of state, chances are you’re not coming from Texas or Arizona so prepare for the summer heat. Temperatures have been known to peak in the mid 90’s but the humidity is what will make you sweat. We love our sunny days but it is always good to step inside to a nice air conditioned house as well.
- Avoid Interstate 4 during rush hour – If you ask anyone who lives in Orlando and takes the I-4 to work during rush hour, they will more than likely tell you to stay off the interstate during rush hour. A $2.3 billion project named “I-4 Ultimate” will begin a 6 year ongoing interstate reconstruction in 2015, meaning that all lanes will be rebuilt, four variable-toll express lanes will be installed, and 15 major interchanges will be redone and 75 more bridges will be replaced – needless to say, stay away from the I-4 for the next six years.
- Walt Disney World Annual Pass Discounts – What? You didn’t think we could give you tips for living in Orlando without even mentioning the discounts to Disney World? When people think of Orlando (or even Florida for that matter), many peoples minds immediately think ‘That is where Disney World is..’ – Yes, it is. If you go to the Disney World website, there are 5 different discount options you can purchase exclusively for Florida residents. If you choose to get a discounted Annual pass, you will be get more than $150 in savings.
Did you recently move into Orlando? Let us know how your move went and if you have any other tips for new and future residents of our great city!