Why Orlando Is Still One of the Best Places to Buy a Vacation Rental in 2025

Michael Chen PA, Realtor at La Rosa Realty Celebration
Published on August 17, 2025

Why Orlando Is Still One of the Best Places to Buy a Vacation Rental in 2025

Orlando isn’t just surviving the 2025 real estate market. It’s thriving. While other vacation rental markets face uncertainty, Orlando continues to attract savvy investors who recognize a golden opportunity when they see one.

Here’s the truth: Orlando’s vacation rental market in 2025 is stronger than ever. With over 75 million annual visitors, world-class attractions expanding, and investor-friendly policies still in place, this isn’t just another real estate trend. It’s a proven investment strategy that’s delivering results right now.

But what makes Orlando so special? Why are investors choosing Central Florida over beach towns, mountain retreats, and other tourist hotspots?

The answer lies in five key factors that set Orlando apart from every other vacation rental market in the country.

Tourism Engine That Never Stops Running

Orlando welcomed over 75 million visitors in 2024, and that number is climbing.

When you buy a vacation rental in Orlando, you’re not betting on seasonal tourism or weather-dependent crowds. You’re investing in the world’s most consistent tourism engine. Disney World alone draws tens of millions of guests annually, but that’s just the beginning.

Universal Epic Universe opens in 2025, adding massive capacity and attracting new visitor demographics. Icon Park continues expanding with new attractions. 

The Orange County Convention Center hosts year-round business events. Sports tourism is booming with Orlando City Soccer, Orlando Magic, and countless youth tournaments.

What this means for your investment

Unlike beach destinations that go quiet in winter or mountain towns that empty out in summer, Orlando vacation homes maintain steady occupancy throughout the year. Your property generates income not just during peak times. It generates income consistently.

Affordable Entry Points With High Returns

Orlando property prices remain competitive compared to other top vacation rental markets. 

While Myrtle Beach condos push $400K+ and Lake Tahoe cabins exceed $800K, you can still find exceptional vacation homes for sale near Disney World starting around $350K-$450K. 

These aren’t fixer-uppers in questionable neighborhoods. These are move-in-ready properties in resort communities designed specifically for short-term rentals.

Communities like Windsor Island Resort, Solara Resort, and Storey Lake offer:

  • STR-approved zoning from day one
  • Resort-style amenities that guests love
  • Professional property management options
  • Proven rental performance history

The numbers speak for themselves: Well-managed Orlando vacation rentals generate $50K-$80K annually with occupancy rates consistently above 70%. That’s not a promise. That’s current market performance.

Properties in the best resort communities near Disney World continue to appreciate while generating strong rental income. You get both cash flow and equity growth, making the Orlando Airbnb investment property a complete wealth-building strategy.

Resort-Style Communities Built for Success

Orlando’s vacation rental communities aren’t just neighborhoods. They’re complete resort experiences.

This is where Orlando truly shines compared to other markets. Instead of buying random houses and hoping for the best, you can invest in purpose-built communities explicitly designed for vacation rentals.Communities like ChampionsGate Resort offer golf courses, spas, and championship amenities. Windsor at Westside features lazy rivers, clubhouses, and family entertainment. Reunion Resort provides three signature golf courses and luxury accommodations that rival five-star hotels.

Your guests aren't just renting a house.

These resort-style communities handle the heavy lifting of guest entertainment. While other markets require you to rely on external attractions, Orlando’s best vacation home communities create the attraction themselves.

Proven Track Record of Property Appreciation

Orlando real estate values have shown consistent long-term growth, even through market cycles.

Smart investors don’t just look at rental income. They consider total returns. Orlando delivers on both fronts. Property values in the top vacation home communities have appreciated steadily over the past decade, and 2025 forecasts predict continued growth.

Market data shows:

  • Median home price growth: 12.1% projected increase in 2025
  • Home sales volume: 15.2% expected growth
  • Inventory levels: Balanced, preventing oversupply issues
  • New construction: Focused on high-demand resort communities

The best places to invest in vacation rentals in 2025 combine strong fundamentals with growth potential. Orlando checks both boxes. You’re not just buying a property that generates rental income today. You’re acquiring an asset that builds wealth over time.

Investor-Friendly Policies and Tax Benefits

No state income tax means you keep more of your rental profits. Florida’s landlord-friendly laws provide clear guidelines and reasonable protections. Most importantly, the state and local governments recognize tourism as an economic driver and maintain policies that support the industry.

Unlike markets where short-term rental regulations keep getting stricter, Orlando’s approach remains balanced. Yes, there are rules. But they’re designed to ensure quality and safety, not eliminate the industry.

Key advantages:

  • No state income tax on rental income
  • Reasonable property tax rates
  • Clear short-term rental regulations
  • Business-friendly local governments
  • Strong legal protections for property owners

The regulatory environment provides stability and predictability. When you buy a vacation rental in Orlando, you’re investing in a market that wants vacation rentals to succeed.

Florida's business-friendly environment

Working With Orlando’s STR Expert

Success in Orlando’s vacation rental market takes more than just opportunity. It requires local expertise. Not all properties perform the same, not all neighborhoods allow short-term rentals, and not all communities deliver strong returns. That’s where Mike Chen comes in.

Why Mike? 

  • Practicing Airbnb host with 2,600+ guest reviews and a 4.81-star Superhost rating 
  • Owns and operates multiple vacation rentals in Orlando’s top resort communities 
  • Real insights from hands-on experience running rentals in the same neighborhoods 

What Mike offers: 

  • Knowledge of STR-friendly communities and investor-friendly HOAs 
  • Expertise in BTR licensing, DBPR requirements, and regulatory details 
  • Full support system: finding, furnishing, licensing, and guest bookings 

Whether you’re starting out or expanding your portfolio, Mike Chen helps you navigate Orlando’s 2025 market to maximize your returns.

Ready to explore Orlando’s best vacation rental opportunities?

Schedule a free 15-minute STR consultation with Mike Chen and discover why Orlando remains one of the best places to invest in vacation rentals.

Or call 503-888-8070 to discuss your investment goals.

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