Let the numbers do the talking.
Orlando, FL vs Tampa, FL
Orlando, FL vs Tampa, FL: What the data shows
Orlando, FL is in Orlando, FL while Tampa, FL is in Tampa, FL — both in the same state. On home prices, Orlando, FL is the more affordable option at $484,200 median — $242,100 less than Tampa, FL's $726,300. WYLT rates Orlando, FL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Tampa, FL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Orlando, FL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Tampa, FL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Orlando, FL has High flood risk and Tampa, FL has Low flood risk.
Orlando, FL is the more walkable neighborhood. Orlando, FL scores 10/100 (car-dependent) versus Tampa, FL's 8/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Tampa, FL has the higher school rating — Orlando, FL rates 6.9/10 and Tampa, FL rates 7/10.
| Category | Orlando, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $484K ✓ Lower price | $726K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $109K | $152K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 10/100 ✓ More walkable | 8/100 |
| Transit Score | 1/100 | 37/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 18/100 | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 9 min | 9 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.9/10 | 7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with school-aged kidsRemote workers who can driveHomebuyers looking for a low-cost entry point | High‑earning professionalsFamilies looking for quality schoolsRetirees who prefer a short commute to city |
Bottom line
If you're a family prioritizing schools and have the financial means, Tampa may be the better choice due to its higher school rating. However, if affordability and a low-car commute are essential, Orlando might still be viable despite its drawbacks. Ultimately, Orlando is slightly more accessible, but Tampa offers a more desirable school district and a higher median income.
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