Southeast Orlando: The Future Is Being Built Here
July, 2025
Southeast Orlando has emerged as one of Florida’s most strategic growth corridors, an engine of innovation, infrastructure, and investment that is shaping the region’s economic future. Anchored by powerhouse submarkets like Lake Nona, Research Parkway, Sunbridge, NeoCity, and the Narcoossee Corridor, this area combines advanced industries, thoughtful urban planning, and robust population growth to create a highly attractive market for both businesses and residents.
Connectivity
Proximity to Orlando International Airport (MCO), direct access to major highways, and expanding multimodal transit systems like SunRail and Brightline make Southeast Orlando a gateway to Central Florida and beyond. This connectivity supports a thriving logistics and freight ecosystem while positioning the area as a hub for global commerce.
“We have worked together to build one of America’s premier 21st-century cities, a modern melting pot where we create unmatched quality of life, where we expand opportunity for everyone, and where we embody the uniquely American ideal.” – Buddy Dyer, Orlando Mayor; orlando.gov
Talent Pipeline
Southeast Orlando is more than a logistical stronghold; it is a knowledge-driven economy fueled by top-tier institutions. The University of Central Florida (UCF), one of the largest universities in the country, anchors a massive regional talent pipeline. With over 70,000 students enrolled and more than 240 degree programs, UCF’s influence spans STEM disciplines, engineering, defense, and healthcare. The Central Florida Research Park, adjacent to UCF, is the largest in the state and fourth largest in the nation, home to companies like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Booz Allen Hamilton.
Healthcare
Medical innovation is another pillar of the region's identity. Lake Nona Medical City is a 650-acre cluster of world-renowned institutions including:
- Nemours Children's Hospital
- The UCF College of Medicine
- The VA Medical Center
- The UF College of Pharmacy
This environment fosters collaboration in life sciences, biotech, and medical technology, with Southeast Orlando rapidly gaining recognition as a national hub for healthcare transformation.
Population
Population momentum adds further energy to this dynamic market. The region's population is expected to reach over 340,000 by 2029, with annual household growth rates exceeding 3%. Master-planned communities like Lake Nona and Sunbridge are setting the standard for sustainable, wellness-focused living. Southeast Orlando also boasts one of the highest average household incomes in Central Florida, reflecting the high-skilled, high-wage workforce the area attracts.
Innovation
From autonomous vehicle testing in Lake Nona to semiconductor fabrication at NeoCity, Southeast Orlando’s diverse economic base supports innovation across sectors. Aerospace, simulation, optics, photonics, and advanced manufacturing all converge here.
With its unmatched mix of infrastructure, talent, livability, and opportunity, Southeast Orlando is more than a market—it’s a movement. And it’s just getting started.
Curious to learn more?
Download our full Why Southeast Orlando packet to see why this region is redefining growth in Central Florida.