I know y'all can't REALLY discuss it, but maybe you can point to some resources? We love downtown Orlando and were considering moving to the Lake Eola/Thornton Park area, but the Halloween shooting was a reminder that crime and safety are a different consideration around there than they are over here in Hamlin. Any thoughts you CAN share or, like I said, a legitimate resource or two that can shed some light on the reality?
I live in Mills 50 and I think living somewhere near downtown, especially where people travel to gather, eat, drink, and party, there is suspected to be more crime. Also, being near public transportation typically leans into more homelessness and lower-income loitering throughout the neighborhoods. Some of my favorite resources is researching crime maps, such as Neighborhood Scout or Spot Crime - the latter is where I input my address and get daily emails of the previous day's crime stats. It depends on what you are looking for - if you are looking for younger neighbors/families and diverse neighbors, downtown is great. You are walkable to grocery stores, fitness centers, restaurants, cafes, and more BUT you will sacrifice the exclusivity and higher-income family aspect that Hamlin has. Hamlin is tucked - somewhat far from the central Orlando busyness - and closer to the theme parks. It's also new build suburbs vs. living downtown (especially Thornton Park), you are smack dab in the middle of it all in usually an older home. I love it and wouldn't leave this area if I got paid to (I used to live in Hamlin) but the vibrancy of downtown just makes me so happy to wake up to each morning.
@ Thank you so much for the detailed reply! I suspect I’m just still a bit “country mouse goes to the big city” and overthinking things. At the same time, I think just spending more time getting familiar with the “good areas” vs the “might want to avoids” will help. It’s just my wife and me, and while we enjoy the relative quiet of Hamlin, we both also love the downtown feel and walkability in the pockets we’re considering. Amazing to hear you made a similar move and love it. We’ll definitely keep our eyes and minds open when upgrade time arrives!
Central Florida faces crime challenges across many areas, but the nature and frequency of incidents vary by neighborhood. Hamlin and Horizon West, being newer developments, tend to experience more property crimes, likely influenced by their proximity to Kissimmee. Violent crimes, such as shootings, are less common and more likely to occur in older neighborhoods. SoDo, in contrast, sees a broader spectrum of issues, from minor offenses like littering and loitering to more serious crimes, especially during events like Halloween. Despite this, SoDo remains a sought-after suburb due to its excellent schools, abundant shopping, entertainment options, and a wide range of gyms. Additionally, its strong infrastructure makes commuting and accessibility seamless-an area where Horizon West often receives criticism. While Hamlin and Horizon West offer growing communities, many consider Plant Street and Downtown Winter garden to represent the heart of “real” Winter Garden. For those prioritizing convenience and established amenities, SoDo offers the best choice!
Thinking of buying or selling a home anywhere in greater Orlando? Reach out today at www.theorlandoreal.com/move/
Very informative video for those of us not all that familiar with all the neighborhoods. Thanks!
You and the pozek crew definitely remind me how awesome it is to live in Central Florida. Thank you
Thanks for watching and for always being so kind, Winston! CFL is lucky to have you
Great job Kristen!
Great video and commentary on that area of Orlando, thanks for posting.. Tony J. from Indiana..🙌🏼🤗👍👏🏼🏢📸
Thanks for tuning in, Tony!
Looks like a very cool neighborhood!
For the cool kids 😎
I know y'all can't REALLY discuss it, but maybe you can point to some resources? We love downtown Orlando and were considering moving to the Lake Eola/Thornton Park area, but the Halloween shooting was a reminder that crime and safety are a different consideration around there than they are over here in Hamlin. Any thoughts you CAN share or, like I said, a legitimate resource or two that can shed some light on the reality?
I live in Mills 50 and I think living somewhere near downtown, especially where people travel to gather, eat, drink, and party, there is suspected to be more crime. Also, being near public transportation typically leans into more homelessness and lower-income loitering throughout the neighborhoods. Some of my favorite resources is researching crime maps, such as Neighborhood Scout or Spot Crime - the latter is where I input my address and get daily emails of the previous day's crime stats. It depends on what you are looking for - if you are looking for younger neighbors/families and diverse neighbors, downtown is great. You are walkable to grocery stores, fitness centers, restaurants, cafes, and more BUT you will sacrifice the exclusivity and higher-income family aspect that Hamlin has. Hamlin is tucked - somewhat far from the central Orlando busyness - and closer to the theme parks. It's also new build suburbs vs. living downtown (especially Thornton Park), you are smack dab in the middle of it all in usually an older home. I love it and wouldn't leave this area if I got paid to (I used to live in Hamlin) but the vibrancy of downtown just makes me so happy to wake up to each morning.
@ Thank you so much for the detailed reply! I suspect I’m just still a bit “country mouse goes to the big city” and overthinking things. At the same time, I think just spending more time getting familiar with the “good areas” vs the “might want to avoids” will help. It’s just my wife and me, and while we enjoy the relative quiet of Hamlin, we both also love the downtown feel and walkability in the pockets we’re considering. Amazing to hear you made a similar move and love it. We’ll definitely keep our eyes and minds open when upgrade time arrives!
Central Florida faces crime challenges across many areas, but the nature and frequency of incidents vary by neighborhood. Hamlin and Horizon West, being newer developments, tend to experience more property crimes, likely influenced by their proximity to Kissimmee. Violent crimes, such as shootings, are less common and more likely to occur in older neighborhoods.
SoDo, in contrast, sees a broader spectrum of issues, from minor offenses like littering and loitering to more serious crimes, especially during events like Halloween. Despite this, SoDo remains a sought-after suburb due to its excellent schools, abundant shopping, entertainment options, and a wide range of gyms. Additionally, its strong infrastructure makes commuting and accessibility seamless-an area where Horizon West often receives criticism.
While Hamlin and Horizon West offer growing communities, many consider Plant Street and Downtown Winter garden to represent the heart of “real” Winter Garden. For those prioritizing convenience and established amenities, SoDo offers the best choice!