Greater Orlando is a tapestry of individual cities and towns, each with their own distinctive flavor and identity. In fact, of Metro Orlando’s 1.5 million population only 180,000 actually live in Orlando proper, meaning the vast majority live in one of dozens of cities comprising Greater Orlando. The city’s roots date back to 1842 when frontiersman Aaron Jernigan settled on the shores of Lake Holden following the Seminole Indian Wars. The advent of the South Florida Railroad brought more and more visitors to nearby Sanford, many of whom migrated to Orlando. By 1900 the population had grown to 3,000. Today 10 times that number move here each and every year.

In fact, from 1992-1997 Orlando was the 3rd fastest-growing metropolitan area in the country and is the number one tourist destination in the world. And lest one think that O-town lives and dies with tourism, it should be noted that Orlando is a leader in Electro-Optics, simulation technology and film production. (In fact, the young film-makers behind the hugely successful “Blair Witch Project” hail from Metro Orlando). Orlando’s population is young, well-educated and diverse. The average age is 34 while over 50% of the total population is college educated. The median household income is $44,179, which is higher than both the national and state average. And not all residents are northern transplants. A growing number of newcomers hail from south of Florida, namely Puerto Rico. These new natives bring with them a unique flair to particularly Osceola County and east Orange. There is also a large contingent of international newcomers from Great Britain, Southeast Asia and South America. Let us continue on this journey through a patchwork quilt of Central Florida’s communities.

"Orange County"

Population: 164,693
Population Density: 2447 people per square mile
Location: Orlando is located in Orange County northeast of Tampa between Daytona Beach and Winter Haven along Interstate 4 near Lake Apopka Situated in the middle of Florida's lakes region. Orlando is the hub of Central Florida. Easy access to Orlando International Airport, Sanford Airport or Daytona Beach Airport. Major highways bisect through and beltway around Greater Orlando making travel to any point in Florida fast and enjoyable.

Education: Orange County Public Schools: 445 W. Amelia : Orlando, FL 32801 : Phone- 407.317.3200

General Characteristics: the City Beautiful," is one of the world's premier tourist destinations and an attractive place for business start-ups, expansions and relocations. The City's growth and prosperity are due in no small part to its quality of life, stemming from its friendly neighborhoods, beautiful parks and lakes, lush landscaping, pleasant climate and positive outlook for the future.

For Information: Greater Orlando Chamber of Commerce : P.O. Box 1234 : Orlando, Fla. 32802
407) 425-1234




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