Is Mount Dora, Florida Expensive? [2025 Cost of Living, Real Estate & Lifestyle Breakdown]

by Johanna Chandler

Welcome to Mount Dora — Florida’s Hidden Gem with Surprising Affordability

Nestled among rolling hills and sparkling lakes, Mount Dora, Florida is a beloved small town known for its charming historic downtown, thriving arts scene, and year-round festivals. But is living here affordable?

In this 2025 homeowner’s guide, we’ll answer the burning question:
πŸ‘‰ Is Mount Dora expensive?
We’ll also break down how far Mount Dora is from Orlando, the beach, the airport, and major theme parks—making this a must-read if you’re considering a move to Central Florida.

πŸ’° Mount Dora Cost of Living in 2025: What to Expect

βœ… Is Mount Dora Affordable?

Compared to national and Florida averages, Mount Dora is moderately affordable:

  • 🏑 Median home price: $415,330
  • πŸ’‘ Utilities and groceries: Slightly below the national average
  • πŸš— Transportation: Lower than metro Orlando
  • πŸ₯ Healthcare: Consistent with most of Central Florida

πŸ“Š Mount Dora’s cost of living is approximately 6% lower than the U.S. average.
(Source: Payscale)

πŸ’Έ Real Estate Market Outlook

Home values in Mount Dora have steadily increased over the last three years, but the market remains more affordable than Orlando or Winter Park:

  • πŸ“ˆ Home appreciation rate (2024–2025): +4.8%
  • 🏘️ Hot neighborhoods: Historic Downtown, Sullivan Ranch, Dora Pines
  • πŸ§‘‍🀝‍πŸ§‘ Popular with: Retirees, remote professionals, families

Mount Dora offers character-rich homes and new construction options—all without Orlando’s traffic and prices.

πŸ“ How Far Is Mount Dora From...?

One of Mount Dora’s biggest advantages is its strategic location—far enough from the hustle, close enough to the action.

Destination

Distance

Drive Time

Orlando, FL

33 miles

~40 minutes

Orlando Intl Airport (MCO)

44 miles

~55 minutes

Walt Disney World

34 miles

~43 minutes

Universal Orlando

32 miles

~40 minutes

Cocoa Bch (Atlantic Coast)

82 miles

~1.5 hours

New Smyrna Beach

72 miles

~1 hour 20 minutes

Whether you’re headed to the beach, airport, or a theme park, you’re within easy reach—without living in the center of chaos.

🌟 What Makes Mount Dora a Special Place to Live?

Mount Dora isn’t just about affordability—it’s about lifestyle.

🎨 Arts & Culture

  • Annual events like the Mount Dora Arts Festival and Craft Fair attract visitors from all over the country.
  • Local galleries, antique shops, and boutique cafes give downtown a curated, walkable charm.

🌿 Outdoor Living

  • Boating, kayaking, and fishing on Lake Dora
  • Scenic hiking and cycling trails nearby
  • One of Florida’s most picturesque sunsets over the water

πŸ›οΈ Downtown Vibes

  • Eclectic shops, wine bars, and lakefront restaurants
  • Historic architecture and bed-and-breakfasts that feel like a step back in time
  • Weekly farmers markets and frequent live music

πŸ‘¨‍πŸ‘©‍πŸ‘§ Who Is Mount Dora Ideal For?

βœ… First-time homebuyers
βœ… Empty nesters and retirees
βœ… Remote workers looking for peace without isolation
βœ… Families seeking small-town schools with big-town access

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