Orange County Florida

Orange County is located in Central Florida Region & Orlando - Kissimmee - Sanford, Florida Metro Area bordering Seminole, Brevard, Osceola and Lake Counties. It is most known for it's largest city and metro area of Orlando.

Orange County was established in 1824 from a portion of St. Johns County. Originally named Mosquito County from the name the Spanish had given the whole area "Los Mosquitos", it was renamed to Orange County in 1845 for the many orange groves in the area.

Cities, Towns & Communities in Orange County

Quick Links & Facts

Established: 1824 (originally called Mosquito County; renamed Orange County in 1845).

County Seat: Orlando, also the largest city in the county.

Area: Total: 1,003 square miles.

Population: Approximately 1.5 million (2023 estimate)

Orange County Blog

Check out our Sponsors

Community Experts & Local Connections

Travel, Tourism, Transportation

Orange County, Florida, is one of the world's top travel and tourism destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year. Home to Orlando's world-famous theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld, the region thrives on its vibrant hospitality and entertainment industry.
Beyond the theme parks, Orange County offers a diverse tourism experience, from the arts and culture of Winter Park to the eco-adventures in Apopka’s natural springs. The area also boasts top-rated resorts, fine dining, shopping districts, and year-round events, making it a premier destination for both leisure and business travelers. With Orlando International Airport providing global access and a well-developed transportation network, visitors can easily explore everything Orange County has to offer.

Find more in our Business Directory Listings: Travel & Attractions Directory Places to Stay

Arts, Entertainment, Events 

Orange County, Florida, is a hub for arts, entertainment, and events, offering a dynamic cultural scene that caters to all tastes. From the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando, which hosts Broadway shows and concerts, to the Orlando Museum of Art and the vibrant galleries of Winter Park, the area thrives with artistic expression.
The entertainment scene is just as lively, with live music venues, comedy clubs, and bustling nightlife. Annual events like the Orlando Film Festival, Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival, and EDC Orlando draw crowds from around the world, celebrating creativity, music, and community.

A Nerd’s Guide to Orlando

Nerd? Geek? Whatever you call yourself I promise there’s something here for you Orlando is the perfect city to geek out in. If you’re a fan of Disney, Star...

Marketplace & Shop

Orange County, Florida, offers a diverse and exciting shopping experience, from luxury brands to unique local boutiques. Visitors and residents alike can explore high-end retail at The Mall at Millenia, outlet deals at Orlando International Premium Outlets, and trendy finds at Winter Park’s Park Avenue.
The area also features charming farmers' markets, specialty stores, and shopping districts like Thornton Park and Ivanhoe Village, which offer handcrafted goods and one-of-a-kind treasures.

Food & Drinks

Orange County, Florida, is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse culinary scene that caters to every taste. From upscale dining at celebrity-chef restaurants in Orlando to hidden gems in Winter Park and Dr. Phillips’ Restaurant Row, the region is packed with flavors from around the world. Foodies can indulge in fresh seafood, authentic international cuisine, and creative farm-to-table dishes, while casual diners enjoy food trucks, local cafés, and classic comfort food.

Top 5 Craft Beer Spots in Clermont

An up-and-coming craft beer community Clermont, Florida is a city most notable for its perfectly pruned golf courses and its uncharacteristic-of-Florida...

Sports & Recreation

Orange County, Florida, is a prime destination for sports and recreation, offering everything from professional sports teams to outdoor adventures. Fans can catch NBA action with the Orlando Magic, cheer for Orlando City SC and the Orlando Pride in soccer, or watch minor league baseball with the Florida Fire Frogs. The area is also known for its world-class golf courses, scenic hiking trails, and water activities on its many lakes. With parks, sports complexes, and fitness centers throughout the county, residents and visitors can enjoy everything from kayaking and fishing to tennis and cycling.
Sports & Recreation Directory 

Real Estate in Orange County

Orange County, Florida, offers a dynamic and diverse real estate market, attracting buyers, investors, and renters alike. From luxury lakefront estates in Windermere to trendy urban condos in downtown Orlando, the region provides housing options for every lifestyle and budget. The county’s booming job market, top-rated schools, and vibrant communities make it an ideal place for families, young professionals, and retirees. With steady property appreciation, strong rental demand, and new developments, Orange County is a prime location for real estate investment opportunities.

Featured Real Estate Professionals

Business Culture & Business

Orange County, Florida, is a thriving hub for businesses and entrepreneurs, offering a strong economy, pro-business policies, and a strategic location. With a diverse range of industries, including tourism, technology, healthcare, and aerospace, the region provides ample opportunities for startups and established companies alike.

For entrepreneurs and business owners, cities like Orlando, Winter Park, and Lake Nona offer distinct advantages for businesses, from downtown high-rises to tech incubators and medical research hubs. Entrepreneurs benefit from resources such as the UCF Business Incubator, coworking spaces, and mentorship programs, making it easier to start and scale a business. Additionally, the county’s skilled workforce, access to major highways, and proximity to international airports ensure connectivity and growth potential for businesses of all sizes.

Orange County, Florida, boasts a diverse and resilient economy, driven by key industries such as tourism, technology, healthcare, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing. The region is home to global corporate headquarters, thriving small businesses, and a growing startup scene, making it an economic powerhouse in Central Florida. With Orlando as its economic hub, the county benefits from a skilled workforce, world-class research institutions, and a pro-business climate that attracts investment and innovation.

Tourism remains a major economic driver, with Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and the Orange County Convention Center generating billions of dollars annually and creating thousands of jobs. However, the economy has diversified beyond tourism, with industries like digital media, fintech, biotech, and aviation experiencing rapid growth. The presence of the University of Central Florida (UCF), research parks, and incubators further fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, helping startups and tech companies thrive.

With no state income tax, competitive operating costs, and strategic infrastructure, Orange County continues to attract businesses, investors, and talent from across the country. The area’s expanding job market, strong consumer base, and ongoing commercial development make it an ideal location for economic growth and opportunity.

Jobs & Employment

Orange County offers a strong and diverse job market with opportunities across multiple industries, making it an attractive destination for job seekers and professionals. The county’s largest employment sectors include tourism and hospitality, healthcare, technology, education, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing. Major employers such as Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, AdventHealth, Orlando Health, Lockheed Martin, and the University of Central Florida (UCF) provide thousands of jobs, supporting both skilled and entry-level workers.
Beyond tourism, the technology sector is booming, with a focus on digital media, software development, cybersecurity, and simulation training. The region’s Medical City in Lake Nona has become a hub for biotech and life sciences, bringing high-paying jobs in research and healthcare. Additionally, the Orange County Convention Center drives employment in events, logistics, and business services, contributing to the area’s economic strength.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Orange County, Florida, is relatively moderate compared to other major cities in the U.S., with housing being the largest expense. While areas like Winter Park, Lake Nona, and Dr. Phillips tend to have higher home prices, more affordable options are available in neighborhoods like Apopka and Ocoee. Overall, the cost of living is more affordable than in Miami and other parts of South Florida, while still offering many of the amenities of a major metro area. Additionally, Florida’s lack of state income tax provides financial relief, making it an attractive place to live, work, and invest.

Browse Local Orange County in our New Florida Regional Business Directory

Orlando Florida Metro Area Business Directory

Businesses & Organizations in Orange County, FL

We have just recently started our regional directories and we are growing. If you know of businesses that should be included here, please let us know. Click here to add your business. 

Animal & Pet Business Directory

Business Services Directory

Beauty & Fashion Business Products & Services

Home & Garden Services

Real Estate

Health & Medical

Health and medical care in Orange County, Florida, is robust, with several leading healthcare institutions providing a wide range of services. AdventHealth Orlando and Orlando Health are two major hospital networks offering comprehensive care in specialties such as oncology, cardiology, and trauma services. The region is also home to Medical City in Lake Nona, which focuses on research, innovation, and medical technology, making it a hub for cutting-edge healthcare. With a growing population, Orange County continues to invest in healthcare infrastructure, providing access to quality services for residents and visitors alike.

When it comes to health and fitness, Orange County offers numerous opportunities for maintaining an active lifestyle. The region boasts extensive parks, trails, and recreational areas for outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and running. Additionally, there are many fitness centers, yoga studios, and sports complexes catering to all fitness levels.

Orange County offers access to quality healthcare, with major providers like BayCare Health System, AdventHealth. The county prioritizes community health initiatives, with programs focusing on mental health, diabetes prevention, and healthy aging. Free health screenings, wellness fairs, and partnerships with nonprofits aim to keep the community healthy and informed. Health & Medical Directory Listings

Community & Culture

Community and culture in Orange County, Florida, are vibrant and diverse, shaped by its rich blend of residents, visitors, and cultural influences. The area offers a welcoming atmosphere for people from all walks of life, with communities celebrating a wide variety of traditions, ethnicities, and backgrounds. This diversity is reflected in the county’s many cultural events, festivals, and art exhibitions, which bring people together year-round.

Community & Culture Business Directory

Government

Polk County operates under a commission-manager form of government, with the Board of County Commissioners setting policy and a professional manager overseeing daily operations. The county’s government emphasizes transparency and community engagement, providing resources for residents and businesses alike. Official County Website Government Directory

Education & Schools


Education in Orange County is served by a strong public school system, Private Schools, Preschools & Child Care, and Higher Education options that cater to a diverse population. Central Florida also has a large and supportive Homeschool community.

Orange County Public School District is one of the largest in the state, offering high-quality education and a variety of specialized programs, including magnet schools, arts programs, and STEM-focused curriculums. In addition, there are several top-rated private schools that offer alternative educational experiences for families seeking smaller class sizes and specialized instruction.

For Higher Education, the county is home to the University of Central Florida (UCF), one of the largest public universities in the U.S., offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like engineering, business, healthcare, and more. Valencia College also provides affordable educational opportunities, with an emphasis on workforce readiness and transfer programs to four-year universities. With such a wide variety of educational options, Orange County supports lifelong learning and career development for its residents, making it a hub for academic and professional growth.

What is Unique or Special About Orange County?

One of the most unique aspects of Orange County, Florida, is its centrality as the heart of the global tourism industry. While the county is most famous for being home to Walt Disney World Resort, it also has a significant impact on global entertainment and hospitality. Beyond the theme parks, Orange County is a hub for innovative tech growth, particularly in Lake Nona, a neighborhood known for its cutting-edge healthcare, smart city development, and tech startups. This blend of tourism, innovation, and technology creates a distinctive environment where businesses thrive in a global tourism epicenter, and residents enjoy a dynamic lifestyle with a mix of recreational, professional, and cultural opportunities. The fusion of these industries with a vibrant arts scene, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly environments make Orange County an extraordinary place to live, work, and visit.

Why Move Here

Orange County, Florida, offers an exceptional quality of life, with a variety of neighborhoods to suit diverse lifestyles. Whether you're looking for family-friendly communities in places like Winter Park or Lake Nona, or more affordable housing in areas like Ocoee and Apopka, there's something for everyone. The area’s no state income tax policy and relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major metropolitan areas make it an attractive option for relocation. The county's strong schools, abundant parks, and recreational options, along with its proximity to world-class amenities, make it a great place to settle down and raise a family.
Thinking about moving to the Orlando area? Click here

Why Work Here

Orange County is a dynamic place to work, with its thriving economy supported by major industries such as tourism, healthcare, technology, and education. The region is home to large employers like Walt Disney World, AdventHealth, and Orlando Health, providing ample job opportunities in diverse fields. For entrepreneurs, the business-friendly environment and supportive startup ecosystem in areas like Lake Nona and Downtown Orlando make it a prime location for launching new ventures. Additionally, the county’s growing tech scene and access to highly educated talent from UCF and other institutions create a robust professional environment.
Starting a Business in Orange County Florida - Everything You Need to Know

Why Visit Here

Orange County is an exciting destination for visitors, thanks to its world-famous attractions, beautiful weather, and rich cultural offerings. Home to iconic places like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld Orlando, the area is a global hub for entertainment and tourism. Beyond the theme parks, visitors can explore the natural beauty of places like Wekiwa Springs State Park or enjoy the local arts scene in Winter Park. With an abundance of shopping, dining, and nightlife options, as well as cultural festivals and events throughout the year, Orange County offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for people of all ages.