Why Students Choose Orlando
What makes Orlando a top choice for college students in 2025? With a vibrant campus scene, affordable housing options, and plenty of student-friendly amenities, it’s no surprise that Orlando ranks high on the list of best college towns. Students give the city a student-friendliness score of 85 out of 100, citing factors like proximity to campus, budget-friendly living costs, and an active social scene as major draws.
For students attending the University of Central Florida or one of the many other colleges in the area, Orlando offers a perfect balance of academic focus and off-campus fun. The city’s youthful energy, diverse job opportunities, and abundance of entertainment options make it an attractive place to spend your college years.
Housing Options for Students
Orlando offers a range of housing choices for students, from on-campus dorms to off-campus apartments and houses. Many students opt to live in the neighborhoods near UCF, where you’ll find plenty of student-focused apartment complexes and rental homes.
Typical rent for a shared 2-bedroom apartment near campus ranges from $600-800 per person, while studio units start around $1,000-1,200. For those looking for student-specific housing, complexes like The Lofts and NorthGate Lakes offer fully furnished units, roommate matching, and included utilities starting at $750-950 per person.
Most off-campus housing options have 12-month leases, though some places offer extended 9- or 10-month terms to align with the academic calendar. Expect to pay first and last month’s rent plus a security deposit, which typically ranges from $200-500. Many apartment complexes offer roommate-finding services to help solo renters find compatible housemates.
Getting Around: Transportation and Campus Access
One of the biggest perks of student living in Orlando is the ease of getting to and from campus. The UCF area is well-served by public transportation, with multiple bus routes connecting the campus to popular student living areas. Students can ride for free with their UCF ID card.
For those who prefer to bike or walk, the neighborhoods around UCF have plenty of sidewalks and bike lanes. The scenic Lake Claire Trail connects several off-campus apartment complexes to the north part of campus. Driving to class is also an option, with ample student parking available in garages and lots.
While having a car can be convenient for weekend trips or off-campus errands, many students find they can get by just fine with a combination of walking, biking, and public transit. Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are also popular for late-night rides home or trips to the airport.
Student Cost of Living
So, how much does it really cost to live in Orlando as a student? While exact expenses vary based on lifestyle and housing choices, here’s a general idea of what you can expect to spend each month:
| Expense | Shared Housing | Solo Apartment |
|---|---|---|
| Rent and Utilities | $750 | $1,100 |
| Food (groceries + dining out) | $350 | $450 |
| Transportation | $50 | $150 |
| Textbooks and School Supplies | $50 | $50 |
| Entertainment and Social Activities | $150 | $250 |
| Personal Care and Misc. | $100 | $150 |
| Monthly Total | $1,450 | $2,150 |
Estimates based on average student spending patterns and local costs in Orlando. Check out our full guide on the Cost of Living in Orlando for more details.
Many students offset these costs by working part-time jobs, which pay around $10-15/hour on average. On-campus jobs are a popular choice, as they offer the flexibility to work around your class schedule. Off-campus, there are plenty of opportunities in retail, hospitality, and tourism.
Student-Friendly Amenities and Services
Orlando is a city that caters to its student population, with tons of amenities and services geared towards the college crowd. On campus, you’ll find plenty of quiet study spots, high-tech libraries, and cozy coffee shops to fuel your late-night cram sessions.
For staying active, UCF has a state-of-the-art recreation center with a gym, pool, and fitness classes. There are also intramural sports leagues, outdoor adventure trips, and over 600 student organizations to get involved with.
When it comes to staying healthy, the UCF Student Health Center offers a full range of medical services, from routine check-ups to urgent care. Mental health support is available through the Counseling and Psychological Services office, which provides free and low-cost therapy to students.
Around town, many local businesses offer student discounts on everything from haircuts to yoga classes. Popular spots like Lazy Moon Pizza and Huey Magoo’s Chicken Tenders even have special deals for UCF students.
Social Scene and Nightlife
College is about more than just studying, and Orlando delivers when it comes to social opportunities for students. On campus, there’s always something going on, from free movie nights and comedy shows to cultural festivals and volunteer events.
For nightlife, downtown Orlando and the UCF-adjacent Waterford Lakes area are popular spots for college students. Highlights include The Other Bar, which hosts indie rock concerts, and The Basement, an underground dance club. Many venues host 18+ nights, so even underclassmen can join in the fun.
Beyond the party scene, Orlando offers plenty of laid-back hangouts perfect for dates or catching up with friends. Leu Gardens is a favorite spot for picnics, while Lake Eola Park hosts a weekly farmer’s market and outdoor movie screenings. For a fun group outing, check out The Escape Game or take a day trip to one of Orlando’s famous theme parks.
Safety and Practical Considerations
Safety is a top priority for students and parents alike. Luckily, Orlando ranks as one of the safest large cities in Florida, with lower crime rates than the state average. Still, it’s always smart to take common sense precautions, especially when walking alone at night.
On the UCF campus, safety measures include a 24/7 police presence, emergency blue light phones, and a free Safe Escort Patrol Service (SEPS) that provides walking or golf cart escorts. For students living off-campus, many apartment complexes have gated entry, security cameras, and even private security patrols.
When it comes to succeeding academically, UCF offers a wealth of support services. The Student Academic Resource Center (SARC) provides free tutoring, supplemental instruction, and academic coaching. For major-specific guidance, each college has its own advising office and career center.
Orlando is also a great place to gain practical experience through internships and co-ops. The UCF Office of Experiential Learning connects students with opportunities at major employers like Lockheed Martin, Disney, and Universal Studios.
FAQs About Student Life in Orlando
- What’s the average cost of student living in Orlando?
Expect to budget around $1,450/month for shared housing or $2,150/month for a solo apartment. Check out our guide on Sample Monthly Budgets for Orlando in 2025 for a full breakdown. - How safe is it for students to live off-campus?
While Orlando has a lower crime rate than many other Florida cities, it’s still important to prioritize safety, especially at night. Choose a secure apartment complex and take advantage of campus safety services when possible. - Are there good part-time job opportunities?
Yes, Orlando has a robust job market for students, with opportunities in hospitality, retail, and on-campus employment. Wages typically range from $10-15/hour. - What’s the social scene like for college students?
From on-campus events to nightlife hotspots downtown, there’s always something going on in Orlando. The city caters to its college crowd with student discounts, 18+ venues, and plenty of free entertainment.
Making the Decision: Is Orlando Right for Your College Years?
If you’re looking for an affordable, student-friendly city with a vibrant campus culture, Orlando is hard to beat. With a variety of housing options, easy access to campus, and plenty of amenities geared towards the college crowd, it’s no wonder so many students choose to make Orlando their home away from home.
Of course, every student’s needs and preferences are different. Consider factors like your budget, transportation needs, and extracurricular interests when deciding whether Orlando is the right fit.
For those still on the fence, we recommend scheduling a campus visit to get a feel for the area. Take a tour of UCF, explore the surrounding neighborhoods, and see for yourself what makes Orlando such a great place to be a student.