If you’re looking to relocate to Central Florida, the two popular options are either Lake Nona or Horizon West. They are the two hottest neighborhoods outside of Orlando right now. Both have pros and cons, and it all depends on what you’re looking for in location.
There are quite a few similarities in the two areas. Both Lake Nona and Horizon West have been developed over the last 10 to 15 years, so everything is going to be new and modern in both communities. Downtown Orlando is about a 15-20-minute drive from either one, and each one has homes built by the same developers, so the styles will be very similar. If you work in downtown Orlando, both suburbs are viable options since the proximity is almost the same.
Pricewise, Lake Nona and Horizon West are comparable, with Lake Nona being slightly more expensive due to the commercial aspect. Each area has a lot to offer in terms of family living and everything being almost brand new.
When you’re choosing whether to move to Lake Nona or Horizon West, you should consider your lifestyle, budget, and what you want to be near in terms of proximity. Let’s look at the differences between the two areas.
Horizon West
If you are looking for a slower-paced lifestyle, Horizon West might be for you. It’s considered a bedroom community, which means developers have focused on building houses instead of commercial areas to bring in jobs. If you are stable in your career and want somewhere quiet to live that’s close to Orlando, this is the area.
Lake Nona and Horizon West are about 15-20 minutes from downtown Orlando, but their proximity to other areas may affect your decision. Horizon West is about a 5-10-minute drive from Disney World, so if you’re a big fan of the mouse this area may be best.
Orlando International Airport is about a 30-45-minute drive from Horizon West, depending on traffic. If you have a job that requires you to travel, Lake Nona might be a better option since it is closer to the airport. Either one isn’t too far, however.
Horizon West has more highway access than Lake Nona, so even if you aren’t as close as you’d like to be to the airport or other places, you can hop on a highway to get places pretty quick. Once you know your way around, it’s easy to get places even if they seem far away.
Horizon West is a quiet suburb with a slower-paced way of life without all of the commercial hustle and bustle of the city. If you’re looking for a quiet place to live and relax with city access, Horizon West could be for you.
As far as pricing goes, Horizon West is slightly cheaper than Lake Nona. Homes start in the mid 300’s and go up from there. So, if your budget caps in the 400’s, Horizon West will be your best bet.
https://mikechenrealtor.com/horizon-west-homes-for-sale/
Lake Nona
While moving to Lake Nona or Horizon West will be comparable in price, Lake Nona is slightly more expensive by 3-5%. If you want to keep your budget in the 400’s, you may want to stick with Horizon West. Houses in Lake Nona will typically fall in the 500’s range. There are townhouses, as well that can be in the 300’s but they can be hard to come by.
As for the feel of the area, Lake Nona has much more to offer in commercial opportunities than Horizon West. Known as ‘Medical City,’ Lake Nona is home to many large medical centers, the UTSA, and other up-and-coming businesses. Lake Nona is full of high-paying job opportunities and would be perfect for someone looking to switch careers and work close to home.
For proximity, Lake Nona is not as close to the mouse as Horizon West. To get to Disney, it is about a 35-minute drive depending on traffic. So, if the mouse is not a high priority, Lake Nona would be a good place to choose. Lake Nona is also very close to the beach, which is less than a half-hour drive. So, if you like going to the beach, this is also something to consider.
If you travel for work frequently, Lake Nona is only about 10 minutes from Orlando International Airport, so if you need a ride it’s not asking too much of your friends. Lake Nona is also going to be home to an electric plane airport soon.
Lake Nona is in the process of building out Phase 2 which will continue to grow its commercial opportunities. If you’re looking for a suburban life that still has plenty to do and high-paying jobs nearby to avoid a city commute, choosing Lake Nona may suit you.
https://mikechenrealtor.com/lake-nona-homes-for-sale/
Conclusion
To sum it up, choosing to move to Lake Nona or Horizon West is up to your preferences. Price, lifestyle, and proximity are important. Looking for a quiet, suburban life? Horizon West will be for you. If you want a bit more hustle and bustle, Lake Nona is up and coming with lots of commercial developments and hot spots coming up.
Choosing to move to Lake Nona or Horizon West can be difficult since they are both so similar, you just need to figure out what’s right for you!
I’m Ready, What’s Next?
I hope you enjoy reading my blog post. My name is Mike Chen and I’m a real estate agent in the Orlando, FL area specializing in vacation, investment, and residential homes. My family and I live in Winderemere and we are huge Disney fans and we absolutely love this area. I would love to talk to you about what it would take to get you into a new home in this area. I look forward to speaking with you!
Contact me HERE today!
