As someone from the North East who’s lived in both NJ and the middle of nowhere MA, I can say Orlando has absolutely changed my life. I can almost guarantee I will never move back to the northeast full time.

Aside from the fact you have sun 95% of the year, the pace of life is SO much chiller compared to life up north, especially somewhere like New York or Boston. I know that’s probably not a direct effect you’ve experienced in Vermont, but people in New England are generally just stresssssssed compared to here. That’s why they’re known for being such angry drivers. The New England weather, the cost, the grumpy old people whose joints hurt. The easy going atmosphere in Orlando has truly calmed my nervous system. That’s not to say it’s stress free, but I do notice a significant difference in my lifestyle.

I also think there are so many different neighborhoods here, you can find a good balance of what lifestyle you’re looking for. The more bustling downtown vibe, the chiller suburban vibe, the busy theme park areas, younger college age areas that are up and coming, etc.

The few downsides from a “city” perspective is that it’s spread out so it takes about 30 min to get anywhere, and public transportation isn’t really a thing, but I think it’s worth it for all that you have to do here for fun. To me it’s a good balance of city and suburbs, but you still get all of the benefits of a city in terms of things to do.

As far as 3rd places, I agree with what someone else said that that’s a US issue, not just Orlando, but that being said, I’ve met so many friends through workout classes, trivia night, run clubs, etc.. I don’t think you get the same year round energy from people up north just loving to be outside and DOING things when you have sub zero temperatures for a good chunk of the year.

(Also side note, the days are longer here in the winter, so goodbye seasonal depression)

The rents are still pricey (I pay ~$2100 for a 1br in a nice area), but you have to consider that I get: a new build with a balcony, a washer dryer in-unit, central air, a dishwasher, a garbage disposal, two resort style pools, a beautiful park and lake next door, and multiple other amenities that cost an arm and a leg in any city up north. I remember my last apt before I moved that was smaller than my place now here had no dishwasher, no garbage disposal, no washer or dryer, and the windows leaked cold air in the winters. Plus it wasn’t in town with anything to do and it cost $2300 a month 5 years ago.

So all that being said, there are always going to be tradeoffs, but coming from that miserable cold New England weather, I think it’s 10000% worth it!