Nestled in the heart of Central Florida and surrounded by a chain of pristine lakes, Windermere is a picturesque town with a unique charm. Known for its natural beauty, luxurious homes, and tranquil atmosphere, Windermere is often regarded as one of the best places to live near Orlando. Its small-town ambiance combined with proximity to major attractions, excellent schools, and low crime rates make it a highly sought-after community, particularly for families, professionals, and retirees alike.
In this article, we’ll explore what makes Windermere such an attractive place to live, examining everything from lifestyle and amenities to crime rates, housing options, and more. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of whether Windermere is a good place to call home.
Overview of Windermere
Windermere is located in Orange County, Florida, about 15 miles west of downtown Orlando. Though it spans just over a couple of square miles, it’s known for its affluent neighborhoods, tree-lined streets, and a family-friendly vibe. Surrounded by the Butler Chain of Lakes, the town offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and water-based activities, making it particularly popular among those who enjoy boating, fishing, and a serene lakeside lifestyle.
Windermere was incorporated in 1925 and has managed to retain its small-town charm despite being close to the bustling Orlando metropolitan area. The town’s motto, “Among the Lakes,” perfectly captures its essence, with a landscape defined by crystal-clear lakes and carefully preserved nature. With only about 3,500 residents as of recent estimates, Windermere is a tight-knit community that prioritizes a high quality of life.
Lifestyle and Community in Windermere
Windermere’s appeal lies not only in its beautiful surroundings but also in the lifestyle it offers. The town has cultivated a distinct, laid-back atmosphere that emphasizes peace, privacy, and nature. Residents are drawn to Windermere for its upscale living, excellent schools, and safe neighborhoods. Here are some aspects of Windermere’s lifestyle and community that make it unique:
1. Outdoor Activities and Recreation
Windermere is surrounded by the Butler Chain of Lakes, a series of interconnected lakes known for their clear, clean waters. This chain of lakes is one of the most desirable freshwater bodies in Central Florida, attracting boaters, kayakers, paddleboarders, and anglers. With over 5,000 acres of water and 32 miles of shoreline, residents have plenty of opportunities to explore the area by boat, and many properties come with private docks or lake access.
In addition to water activities, Windermere has several parks and trails, such as Central Park, Palmer Park, and Fernwood Park. These parks provide green spaces for picnics, jogging, and family gatherings. Whether you’re a fan of fishing, water sports, or simply enjoying the outdoors, Windermere offers a variety of recreational options.
2. Family-Friendly Environment
Windermere is considered a highly family-friendly community, with a range of amenities and activities that cater to all ages. The town regularly hosts events such as farmers markets, seasonal festivals, and family movie nights, all of which encourage a sense of community and allow neighbors to get to know one another.
Many families are drawn to Windermere for its excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and the slower pace of life. The town’s small population allows children to grow up in an environment where neighbors know each other, and the community feels connected. It’s a place where families can enjoy both privacy and a sense of belonging, which can be hard to find in larger cities.
3. Cultural and Social Scene
Though Windermere itself is a small town, it is just a short drive away from Orlando, giving residents access to a vibrant cultural and social scene. Residents enjoy the peace and quiet of Windermere while having the option to experience world-class dining, entertainment, and attractions in Orlando. Windermere is close to top Orlando attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, allowing residents to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Locally, Windermere has its own charm, with boutique shops, coffee houses, and restaurants that offer a small-town feel. The weekly farmers market is a popular event where locals gather to shop for fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan products, giving the town a unique cultural identity.
4. Community Engagement and Events
Windermere has a close-knit community that values engagement and active participation. Throughout the year, the town hosts a variety of events that bring the community together, from the Windermere Art Affair to charity 5Ks and the annual Halloween Hayride. These events foster a strong sense of community pride and provide residents with a chance to connect and socialize.
Education in Windermere
Education is a key consideration for many families, and Windermere is known for its high-quality schools. The town is part of the Orange County Public Schools district, which includes some of the highest-rated schools in the area.
Top Schools Serving Windermere
- Windermere Elementary School: Known for its strong academic performance, Windermere Elementary is a popular choice for families with young children.
- Windermere Preparatory School: An independent, private school with a focus on college preparation, Windermere Prep is known for its rigorous academics and extensive extracurricular programs, including athletics, arts, and community service.
- Olympia High School: Located in nearby Orlando, Olympia High is one of the top public high schools serving the Windermere area, offering Advanced Placement (AP) courses, sports, and arts programs.
- Windermere High School: This newer public high school serves Windermere and parts of the surrounding area, providing a comprehensive curriculum and a range of extracurricular activities.
Families in Windermere have access to both public and private school options, ensuring that students have access to a well-rounded education. Additionally, the area is close to several higher education institutions, such as the University of Central Florida and Rollins College, for those looking for post-secondary opportunities.
Housing and Real Estate in Windermere
Windermere’s housing market is known for its luxurious homes, many of which are located along the Butler Chain of Lakes. Real estate in Windermere primarily consists of single-family homes, ranging from charming older houses in the town center to sprawling estates in gated communities. Properties along the lakes tend to be more expensive, as they come with stunning views and private access to the water.
Real Estate Market Overview
The median home price in Windermere is notably higher than the Florida state average, reflecting the area’s desirability and the high quality of life it offers. However, the market also provides a variety of options, from modest single-family homes to multi-million-dollar estates. Popular gated communities, like Isleworth and Keene’s Pointe, attract affluent buyers, including professional athletes, entertainers, and executives, who value the privacy, security, and exclusivity these neighborhoods offer.
Windermere has seen steady growth in property values over recent years, and the area’s appeal suggests that this trend is likely to continue. For those looking to invest, Windermere represents an attractive option, with a stable market and high demand for luxury homes.
Crime and Safety in Windermere
Safety is a top concern for many potential residents, and Windermere is known for its low crime rates compared to other parts of Central Florida. The town’s small size and close-knit community contribute to a safer environment, with residents looking out for each other and reporting suspicious activity.
Crime Rates and Safety Measures
Windermere consistently has one of the lowest crime rates in Orange County. Violent crime is rare, and property crime rates are low compared to the surrounding Orlando area. Windermere benefits from a dedicated police department that patrols the town, and many of the gated communities have additional private security measures in place.
When compared to other Orlando suburbs, Windermere’s crime rate is relatively low. Other nearby communities like Dr. Phillips and Winter Park also have low crime rates, but Windermere’s high level of community involvement and additional security in gated neighborhoods make it particularly safe.
For families, professionals, and retirees, Windermere offers a level of security and peace of mind that can be hard to find in larger cities. It’s a community where residents can feel comfortable letting their children play outside and enjoy the neighborhood without constant worry.
Employment and Commuting from Windermere
Windermere’s location offers residents the benefit of a peaceful, suburban environment without sacrificing access to job opportunities. While the town itself is primarily residential, its proximity to Orlando and other business hubs means that residents have a range of employment options.
Employment Opportunities
Windermere is close to Orlando’s major industries, including tourism, healthcare, technology, and finance. The town’s location near the Orlando business district and tourism hub, including Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort, provides ample job opportunities in hospitality, entertainment, and service industries.
Additionally, the growth of technology and healthcare sectors in Orlando means that professionals in these fields can commute easily from Windermere. Other employment hubs, such as the Lake Nona Medical City and downtown Orlando, are also within a reasonable driving distance.
Commuting from Windermere
Windermere is conveniently located near major highways, such as the Florida Turnpike and I-4, making commuting to downtown Orlando and surrounding areas relatively straightforward. However, traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours, particularly along the main routes connecting Windermere to the greater Orlando area.
For those who work in Orlando, commuting from Windermere generally takes about 30 minutes, depending on traffic. While public transportation options are limited, many residents find the commute manageable and appreciate the trade-off of living in a quieter, safer area.
Quality of Life in Windermere
Quality of life is one of the most important factors when choosing a place to live, and Windermere consistently ranks high in this regard. Its combination of natural beauty, upscale amenities, and strong sense of community creates a lifestyle that many residents cherish.
Pros of Living in Windermere
- Scenic Environment: Surrounded by lakes and nature, Windermere offers a scenic environment that is rare to find in suburban areas.
- Low Crime Rates: With low crime rates and a strong sense of community, Windermere is considered one of the safest areas around Orlando.
- Excellent Schools: Families have access to top-rated public and private schools, providing a strong educational foundation for children.
- Proximity to Orlando: Windermere’s close proximity to Orlando allows residents to enjoy both a tranquil home life and access to the city’s amenities and job opportunities.
- Strong Community Bonds: The town hosts regular events and fosters an environment where residents can build relationships with their neighbors.
Potential Cons of Living in Windermere
- Higher Cost of Living: Windermere is known for its luxury homes, which means housing prices and the overall cost of living are higher than in other parts of Central Florida.
- Limited Public Transportation: Windermere does not have extensive public transportation, so most residents rely on cars for commuting.
- Traffic During Peak Hours: As with much of the Orlando area, traffic can be an issue, especially during peak commuting times.
Conclusion: Is Windermere a Good Place to Live?
In summary, Windermere is an exceptional place to live for those who value a luxurious, peaceful lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty. Its low crime rates, excellent schools, and strong community atmosphere make it a great option for families and retirees, while its proximity to Orlando ensures access to job opportunities, world-class entertainment, and shopping.
Though the cost of living in Windermere is higher than in other parts of Central Florida, many residents feel that the quality of life, safety, and beautiful surroundings make it worth the investment. For those looking for a blend of small-town charm with big-city convenience, Windermere is a unique and appealing choice within the Orlando metropolitan area.