Central Florida communities: how the regions actually differ

A city west of Orlando with a genuine historic downtown, wrapped by newer residential communities built over the last two decades.

A low-density, lake-oriented area on the Butler Chain of Lakes, known for large lots, mature oaks and privacy.

An established, central area southwest of Orlando with mature landscaping, golf communities and one of the metro's densest restaurant corridors nearby.

A planned town near Kissimmee built around a walkable center, front porches and a consistent architectural code.

An established city immediately north of downtown Orlando, built around a chain of lakes, brick streets and a genuine main street rather than a master plan.

West of Orlando in Lake County, where Central Florida stops being flat: rolling terrain, a chain of lakes, and a large amount of newer suburban development.

The seat of Osceola County, south of Orlando: an older city core beside Lake Tohopekaliga, wrapped by tourism corridors and a broad range of residential product.

Southwest of the metro along the US-27 and I-4 corridors, an area defined by large, recently built communities — many of them resort-style.

A west Orange County city built around a major highway interchange, with established neighbourhoods, lakes and quick regional access in several directions.