📍 About F11 & Orlando
The Central Florida TRACON (F11) is located in Orlando, FL — a major metro area known for its year-round sunshine, low taxes, entertainment, and diverse neighborhoods. Whether you’re relocating alone or with a family, there’s a place for you here.
🏡 Where to Live
Singles & Couples
- Downtown Orlando: High-rise apartments, nightlife, and Lake Eola Park.
- Winter Park: Upscale, walkable, great restaurants and shopping.
- Milk District & Mills 50: Artsy, younger vibe, local bars and eateries.
Families
- Oviedo: Top-rated schools, very safe, family-focused.
- Lake Nona: Newer planned community near MCO with excellent schools and amenities.
- Winter Garden: Historic charm, highly rated schools, popular with ATC families.
- Clermont: Affordable suburban lifestyle, scenic lakes and hills.
🚗 Commute Times to F11
- 0–15 min: Lake Nona, Conway
- 15–30 min: Downtown Orlando, Winter Park, Winter Garden
- 30–45 min: Oviedo, Clermont, Sanford
🎓 Top School Districts
🧳 Things to Do
- Theme Parks: Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld
- Beaches: Cocoa Beach (1 hr), Clearwater Beach (2 hrs)
- Outdoor: Wekiwa Springs, Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive, kayaking, biking trails
- Downtown Orlando: Amway Center events, dining, arts
✈️ Nearby Airports
- Orlando International Airport (MCO): 5–10 min drive from F11
- Orlando Executive Airport (ORL): For general aviation
- Sanford Airport (SFB): Alternate commercial airport ~35 mins away
💰 Cost of Living
- Median home price in Orlando: $390,000
- Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,500–$1,900/month
- Florida has no state income tax
- Groceries and gas are around the national average
☀️ Weather
- Summer: Hot & humid, thunderstorms common
- Fall: Warm, less rain, hurricane season
- Winter: Mild, sunny, dry (50s–70s)
- Spring: Warm, pleasant, low humidity
🛫 ATC-Specific Tips
- Lake Nona is extremely close — popular with controllers.
- Shift work is year-round — avoid rush hour if commuting from suburbs.
- Join local social ATC groups — many live near the airport.
📦 Moving Tips
- Book movers early — Orlando is a high-growth city.
- Consider flood zones if buying near water — check FEMA maps.
- Best apartment deals: March–May and September.
❓ FAQs
- Is Orlando safe? Yes, especially areas like Lake Nona, Winter Park, and Oviedo.
- Will I need a car? Definitely. Public transport is limited.
- What’s the traffic like? I-4 can be heavy during rush hour. Plan accordingly.