If you’re a nature lover that’s considering moving to Apopka FL, you’ll be happy to know that the city/suburb is one of Central Florida’s top destinations for outdoor activities. Apopka is also known as the Indoor “Foliage Capital of the World”, due to its abundance of greenhouse nurseries.
Before foliage became associated with Apopka, it was the land of the Timucua Indian Confederation that disappeared (likely due to disease) around 1730. 100 years later, the Seminole Indian tribe took refuge there, forming a village along Lake Apopka. They called the city Ahapopka, which translates to “potato eating place”. It was later incorporated as the Town of Apopka City in 1882, and then Apopka by the 1900s.
Apopka is considered a nice place to live. It’s peaceful, has nice weather, and is home to some excellent high school sports programs. Living in Apopka means residents get to experience an ideal combination of urban amenities and nature – plus, everything is within close proximity.
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What County Is Apopka Florida in?
Apopka is a city/suburb of northwest Orlando within Orange County. It’s part of the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford Metropolitan Statistical Area, and is roughly 20.4 miles from Orlando, which is only a 30 minute drive to Walt Disney World and a 39 minute drive to the Orlando International Airport.
The city of Apopka is situated just above Lake Apopka, which is Florida’s fourth largest lake fed by a natural spring and rainfall. The western portion of the lake overlaps with Lake County, and the entire lake serves as the headwaters of the Ocklawaha River.
Apopka Population & Demographics
According to the 2024 US Census Bureau, the Apopka FL population is 62,777people. The city/suburb has grown by 14.3% in residents since 2020 and holds the second largest population in Orange County.
The population in Apopka is substantially diverse. Apopka demographics are as follows:
- White (non-Hispanic or Latino): 39.9%
- Hispanics and Latinos: 29.8%
- Black or African Americans: 25.7%
- Communities of two or more races: 21.6%
- Asians: 3.5%
- American Indian and Alaska Natives: 0.2%
Apopka also has a median age of 38.3, which is a little higher than the rest of the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford metro area. The rest of Apopka’s demographic data includes:
- A population density of 1,868 people per square mile of its 33.6 square miles of land area
- A 52.6% female population and a 47.4% male population
- A median household income of $96,884
- A high school graduate or higher rate of 90.7%
- An attainability rate for a Bachelor’s degree or higher of 38.8%
- A foreign-born population of 21.9%
- A veteran population of 2,260 veterans
According to the FBI, Apopka has an overall crime rate of 2,748.3 crimes occurring per 100,000 people. Violent crimes in Apopka occur at a rate of 430.8 per 100,000 people, and property crimes occur at a rate of 2,317.5 per 100,000 properties. Despite these numbers, the overall murder rate in Apopka is 66.1% lower than the rest of the state and 69.4% lower than the country. As such, Apopka is a very safe place to live.
The Apopka Police Department also employs a total of 104 police officers. This allows for two officers per 1,000 people.
Cost of Living in Apopka
What’s the cost of living in Apopka FL? According to the Economic Research Institute, Apopka ranks 193 out of 2503 cities throughout Florida. Overall, the Apopka cost of living is 4% lower than the national average, with housing being 38% lower and utilities being 4% lower. This makes Apopka a relatively affordable place to live in Florida.
Typical Apopka Living Expenses
Using the Economic Policy Family Budget Calculator, you can map out your monthly expenses for living in Apopka. For example, the average monthly cost of housing in Apopka for a family of four comes to about $9,6557.
The breakdown of Apopka living monthly costs looks like this:
- Housing: $1,984
- Food: $1,085
- Child care: $1,455
- Transportation: $1,425
- Health care: $1,551
- Other necessities: $953
- Taxes: $1,213
This comes to an annual total of $115,860, which is the minimum household income a family of four would need to earn to live comfortably in Apopka.
Here’s what other monthly expenses will look like living in Apopka:
- Average Apopka utilities per month: $188.49
- Auto insurance (full coverage): $324
- Auto loan: $520
- Health insurance: $450
- Life insurance: $30
- Cable & satellite: $35
- Mobile phone: $188.72
According to Numbeo, everyday living expenses in Apopka look like this:
- Meals at inexpensive restaurants: $19.75
- 12 oz Coke or Pepsi: $3.59
- Milk (1 gallon): $4.96
- Loaf of bread (fresh, white): $3.87
- Rice (1 pound): $1.82
- Eggs (1 dozen): $4.15
- Domestic beer (1 pint): $6.50
- Bananas (1 pound): $0.89
- Bottle of wine (mid-range): $15.00
- Cigarettes (20 pack): $9.07
As for the Apopka homes for sale, there has been a 7% price decrease over the last year. The Apopka median home price is $400,000. Apopka real estate tends to sell within 73 days of listing. However, there are plenty of Apopka, FL homes for sale if you’re looking to buy.
If you’re looking to rent, Apopka apartments have a median cost of $2,225 for a one bedroom with a 45% year-over-year change, according to Zumper. This is close to what you’d pay in neighboring cities such as Kissimmee, Orlando, and even Tampa. Keep in mind that rental prices for apartments in Apopka will vary based on location, type, and amenities.
Apopka Neighborhoods | Where to Live in Apopka
There are a lot of homes for sale in Apopka FL, and choosing which neighborhood to live in is a whole other ballpark. Before moving to Apopka, you’ll want to learn about the neighborhoods there and what they have to offer. Here’s an overview of some of the best neighborhoods in Apopka FL.
Arbor Ridge
Arbor Ridge is a suburban neighborhood made up of mostly medium-sized single family homes. Most of the homes here were built between 1970 and 1999, with newer residences built as recently as 2000. Many of the residences here are seasonally occupied, which is largely due to the neighborhood being shared among college students and vacation homeowners.
Forest City
Forest City is another Apopka neighborhood with mostly medium-sized homes as well as various apartment complexes. Many of the homes and apartments were also built between 1970 and the present. This neighborhood is notably diverse and popular among educated professionals.
Bay Ridge
Bay Ridge also features medium-and large-sized single family homes, as well as mobile homes. These homes were also built starting in 1970, and it’s considered a moderate-income neighborhood.
Apopka FL Weather & Climate
The weather in Apopka Florida can be characterized by a humid, subtropical climate. Summers are hot and humid while winters are warm with chilly nights. Summer temperatures in Apopka Florida can range between 83°F and 89°F, with highs of 94°F. Winter temperatures range from 71°F to 75°F, sometimes falling as low as 67°F.
The best times to visit Apopka are during the autumn and spring months. Apopka also sees an annual rainfall of 52.73 inches and is in a very low-risk hurricane zone.
Things to Do in Apopka
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From outdoor activities to shopping, there are tons of things to do in Apopka Florida. The Shoppes at Wekiva Plaza are centrally located and perfect for all your needs, including groceries, haircuts, and fitness. The Piedmont Plaza is home to a Hobby Lobby, clothing stores, restaurants, and the best movie theater in town.
Lake Apopka Wildlife Trail
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The Lake Apopka Wildlife Trail is one of the most popular things to do in Apopka. It’s located in the Lake Apopka North Shore Nature Reserve, which spans about 20,000 acres. You can hike two different trails on foot, by bicycle, and even on horseback to take in the flora and fauna, or take the Apopka Wildlife Drive, which allows you to view everything by car.
Lake Apopka North Shore 2850 Lust Rd, Apopka, FL 32703 (386) 329-4404
Central Florida Archery & Hunting Club
The Central Florida Archery & Hunting Club offers fun things to do in Apopka with kids and friends alike. They offer archery lessons, and you can even compete.
Central Florida Archery & Hunting Club Inc. 423 E Keene Rd, Apopka, FL 32703 (407) 485-0498
Museum of the Apopkans
If you’re looking for educational things to do in Apopka, the Museum of the Apopkans can teach you a lot about the city’s history. It’s run by the Apopka Historical Society, and it features exhibits depicting the history of Northwest Orange County.
Museum of the Apopkans, 122 E 5th St, Apopka, FL 32703 (407) 703-1707
Other Attractions in Apopka
- Apopka Springs
- The Apopka fair
- Regal Wekiva Riverwalk Theater
You can find more things to do in Apopka by checking the city’s calendar of events or the programs offered by the Apopka Parks and Recreation Department.
Apopka Restaurants
There are also lots of different Apopka restaurants to choose from. These are some of the best restaurants in Apopka.
Caffe Positanos
If you’re choosing among Italian restaurants in Apopka, this family-owned establishment offers all the classics and some of the best pizza around. It’s perfect for a night out with family, friends, and significant others.
Caffe Positano 3030 E Semoran Blvd, Apopka, FL 32703 (407) 774-8080
San Miguel Mexican Grill
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San Miguel’s is a family-owned, authentic Mexican food restaurant. Here you’ll get the freshest flavors from Acuapulco, and they even offer vegetarian and vegan options!
San Miguel Mexican Grill 1442 W Orange Blossom Trail, Apopka, FL 32712 (407) 703-5232
Sonny’s BBQ
Sonny’s is a long-standing BBQ chain that specializes in smoked BBQ over oak. Everything here is freshly smoked in-house, and they offer all the fixings BBQ lovers dream of.
Sonny’s BBQ 2210 E Semoran Blvd, Apopka, FL 32703 (407) 814-8888
Jobs in Apopka Florida
The market for jobs in Apopka Florida has increased by 3.9% over the last year, with predictions to grow by another 50.8% over the next decade. At this rate, the Apopka job market will be 33.5% higher than the national average.
The average salary in Apopka is $45,606 per year. The highest-paying jobs in Apopka include Hospital physician and general practitioner.
Some of the top employers in Apopka are:
Apopka Schools
The entire city/suburb of Apopka falls in the Orange District, which is home to 48 Apopka schools. This includes private schools, elementary schools, high schools, universities, and the North Orange Branch Public Library.
The most notable universities within proximity of Apopka include the University of Central Florida and Rollins College.
Apopka Statistics & Information
- County: Orange County
- Apopka Area: 35.97 square miles
- Apopka zip codes: 32703, 32798, 32704, 327212, and 32776
- Apopka Area code: 407
- Apopka Elevation: 131 feet
- Apopka Time zone: Eastern Standard Time (EST)
- Closest airport: Orlando International Airport (MCO), 34.1 miles away from Apopka via the Florida Turnpike.
Apopka Florida Map
Want to explore more of Apopka FL? Use this map.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Apopka a Nice Place to Live?
Apopka, FL, is a friendly community with a suburban and rural atmosphere. It’s home to natural parks like the Wekiwa Springs State Park, perfect for nature enthusiasts. Apopka is famous for outdoor activities like birdwatching, fishing, and hiking. Its proximity to Orlando provides the best of both a rural lifestyle and urban amenities, which is desirable for those seeking a balance of city life and nature.
Is Apopka Rural or Urban?
Apopka is a suburban city with both urban and rural characteristics. Its main selling point is its lower population density compared to its nearby cities like Orlando, while still offering conveniences and urban amenities.
What Is Apopka Close to?
Apopka is just northwest of Orlando. That means it’s close to major attractions like the popular Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and other theme parks. For outdoor enthusiasts, the scenic Wekiwa Springs State Park and other natural parks are nearby and within driving distance.
What Is the Nice Neighborhood in Apopka Florida?
Rock Springs Ridge and Errol Estates are some of the nicest neighborhoods in Apopka FL. This is because of their well-maintained homes, family-friendly environment, and easy access to nature reserves and parks. These neighborhoods are also within proximity to retail centers, schools, and other outdoor recreational areas despite having a suburban lifestyle.
Is Apopka Close to Disney?
Yes. Apopka FL is just a short drive (around 20 miles north) to Walt Disney World. This allows residents and visitors to enjoy easy access to all the entertainment parks in Orlando while remaining in a quiet residential area.
Moving to Apopka FL With 2 College Brothers
Apopka has a lot to offer, starting with perfect weather and incredible natural attractions. If you’re moving to Apopka, we’re here to help. Request a free quote from our Apopka movers today or give 2 College Brothers a call at 813-922-1528 to learn more!
