The Econ River Wilderness area, where hikers can see plenty of wildlife like great-horned owls, is a short drive from Alafaya, FL.
iStock/Joesboy

Alafaya, FLBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023

Alafaya is a hidden gem located in the heart of the Sunshine State. With pristine lakes and natural preserves, top-rated schools and proximity to Orlando’s attractions, Alafaya offers tranquility and excitement.

Alafaya, FL, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America

Alafaya, FL, is an unincorporated community of about 38 square miles right next to Orlando, but with a population of 90,000 and growing, it’s already larger than most cities in the country. Of course, living near Orlando has its obvious perks (being 30 minutes away from Disney and constantly being drenched in the sunshine doesn’t sound half bad). What really separates Alafaya as one of the best places to live in the U.S. is its access to excellent public schools. 

Because Alafaya doesn’t have its own public school system, kids in the community attend Orange County Public Schools. The specific high school designated for Alafaya students to attend is Timber Creek High School, which ranks far above average for college readiness (music to any parent’s ears). And higher education is literally within sight of kids from Alafaya — the University of Central Florida is just right down the road and serves as a central pillar of entertainment and jobs in the area.  

Alafaya, FL Quality of Life LivScore

0 1000 1000 754

Alafaya, FL Top Categories

  • Economy

  • Transportation

  • Amenities

Alafaya ranks highest for economy, transportation and amenities.

Weather and Outdoor Activities in Alafaya, FL

What is the weather like in Alafaya?

Summers in Alafaya are muggy and wet, but winters, of course, are lovely and mild, with highs in the 70s. The average highs and lows are 92°F and 74°F (summer) and 73°F and 53°F (winter).

Does Alafaya get a lot of snow?

The average annual snowfall in Alafaya is 0 inches. While the city may experience occasional frost or freezing temperatures during the winter months, snowfall is extremely rare. 

Does Alafaya get a lot of rain? 

The average annual rainfall in Alafaya is around 50 inches, with the highest averages of precipitation occurring from June to September. 

How many sunny days does Alafaya get?

Alayfaya averages 233 sunny days a year.

What are some things to do outside in Alafaya?

Located just 15 minutes outside Alafaya is the Econ River Wilderness area, where hiking enthusiasts can enjoy some pretty splendid natural sights like pine flatwoods, tropical flowers and plenty of wildlife, including great-horned owls. 

Things To Do in Alafaya, FL

What are some fun things to do with kids in Alafaya?

Your kids are sure to sleep well the night after Launch Trampoline Park, located in the Waterford Towers shopping center. Admission includes a trampoline park, laser tag, bowling, an arcade and more.

Where do locals shop in Alafaya?

Everything you could possibly want to shop for can be found at Waterford Lake Towns Center, which is located just outside Alafaya. The center features dozens of stores, restaurants, a movie theater and even a dog park.

Where should you take a date in Alafaya?

Grab some King-Bao buns to go (good luck trying to choose between all of the delectable options), then head to a nearby picnic spot. (We recommend the gorgeous Lake Eola Park in Orlando). 

What is the best coffee shop in Alafaya?

Family-owned and cozy as can be, Vespr Coffee is the perfect spot to get your daily iced oat milk latte.

It's proximity to Orlando brings obvious perks, but Alafaya, FL, also has access to excellent public schools and the University of Central Florida, which serves as a central pillar of entertainment and jobs in the area.
iStock/nattrass
Its proximity to Orlando brings obvious perks, but Alafaya, FL, also has access to excellent public schools and the University of Central Florida, which serves as a central pillar of entertainment and jobs in the area.

The Local and State Economy in Alafaya, FL

What are the three largest industries in Alafaya?

As part of the Orlando metropolitan area, some of the major industries in Alafaya include tourism and hospitality, technology and education. 

What is the sales tax rate in Alafaya?

In 2023, the sales tax rate in Alafaya is 6.5%. 

Does Florida have a state income tax?

No, Florida does not have a state income tax. 

Who are the major health care providers in Alafaya?

Alafaya’s proximity to Orlando (just 12 miles!) gives residents access to the city’s many providers, including AdventHealth and Orlando Health-Orlando Regional Medical Center, which is recognized for 13 high-performing procedures and conditions and nationally ranked in five children’s specialties. 

What colleges and universities are in Alafaya?

The University of Central Florida is located near Alafaya, and there are several other higher-education institutions within driving distance in nearby Orlando and Winter Park.

Quick Facts About Alafaya, FL

Median Household Income
$82,403
iStock/nattrass
Median Home Value
$324,057
iStock/nattrass
Average State Property Tax
$2,143
iStock/nattrass
Total Population
92,312
iStock/nattrass
Median Rent/Mo.
$1,414
iStock/nattrass
Average Commute
29.6 minutes
iStock/nattrass

Excellent public schools, a thriving economy and access to health care all contribute to Alafaya’s ranking as one of the best places to live in the U.S. Learn more about living in Alafaya and consider other great things about living in Florida. Another moving resource: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live

Continue Reading Best Places To Live in the US in 2023

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