October 06, 2026

Longwood is an incorporated city of about 17,000 residents packed into 5.6 square miles. Pull back to include the surrounding unincorporated areas and that number climbs to 56,457. It's a small place on paper, but it draws a steady stream of buyers because of where it sits - just north of Orlando, close enough to matter but far enough to feel like somewhere else. This location is a major factor for anyone weighing the pros and cons of living in Longwood, FL.

Location and Commute to Orlando

The drive from Longwood to Orlando runs roughly 13 to 15 miles. Most people take I-4 West and land somewhere between 20 and 22 minutes depending on what traffic decides to do that day.

That commute range is the whole pitch for a lot of buyers. You're in Seminole County, not the city, but you're not giving up a reasonable drive to get there.

Seminole County and Local ZIP Codes

Longwood sits entirely within Seminole County and is served by two standard delivery ZIP codes: 32750 and 32779. The 32750 side covers the eastern portion of the market, including the historic downtown district. Head west toward the Wekiva Springs area and you're in 32779 territory. There are also two PO Box-only codes - 32752 and 32791 - operating in the area, though those won't affect which house you're looking at.

Housing Costs and Everyday Expenses

The median sale price right now is around $380,000, and homes are averaging 32 days on market before going under contract. Sellers are recouping about 98.5% of list price, which tells you there isn't a lot of room for low offers. Active inventory sits at around 60 homes with 3.9 months of supply - buyers have something to work with, but don't expect to drag your feet on a property you want.

Property Taxes and Renting

Seminole County's effective property tax rate runs from about 0.67% to 0.92% of assessed value. The combined nominal millage rate lands roughly between 15.18 and 15.5 mills per $1,000 of taxable value after the standard $50,000 Florida homestead exemption. For most homeowners, that translates to a median annual tax bill somewhere between $2,599 and $3,210.

If you're renting first - which plenty of people do before committing to a purchase - expect to pay somewhere in the range of $1,944 to $1,949 per month across all apartment types. One-bedrooms run $1,594 to $1,705. Single-family rentals average around $2,603 per month. Townhomes come in around $1,659 monthly, which puts them squarely in the middle.

Lifestyle and Daily Routine in Longwood

The average household income across the combined incorporated and unincorporated Longwood area is $66,120. Day-to-day life looks different depending on which side of town you land on.

The eastern side is anchored by historic downtown - walkable, commercial, with a mix of local shops and older architecture. The western side is a different animal: larger lots, quieter streets, and direct access to the natural landscapes around Wekiva Springs. Both are legitimate choices; it just comes down to what your daily routine looks like.

Public Schools and Local Education

The Seminole County School District serves students in this area. Specific facilities operating near Longwood include Altamonte Elementary School, Apopka Middle School, and Lyman High School. That said, school assignments depend on your exact address within the 32750 or 32779 ZIP codes - checking the district's boundary maps before you fall in love with a particular house is worth the five minutes.

Historic Downtown and Local Amenities

Historic downtown Longwood is where you'll find the municipal buildings, local businesses, and the SunRail station that connects riders into Orlando without touching I-4. The architecture is older, the retail mix is a combination of local and modern, and it's primarily accessed from the 32750 ZIP code.

Cross into 32779 and the feel changes quickly. Lots get bigger, the density drops off, and Wekiva Springs is right there if outdoor access matters to you. Neither side is a compromise - they're just different lives. Figure out which one fits before you start scheduling showings.

Common Questions About Longwood

Is Longwood, FL a good place to live?

It's a popular option for buyers who want proximity to Orlando without living in the middle of it. The commute runs about 20 minutes, and the historic downtown gives the city its own identity rather than just being a suburb with a name.

Where is Longwood, FL located?

Longwood is in Seminole County, Florida - about 13 to 15 miles north of Orlando along the I-4 corridor.

Is Longwood, FL safe?

You'll want to review local municipal data to form your own picture. The City of Longwood maintains its own police department, and Seminole County provides additional public safety resources.

How much does it cost to live in Longwood, FL?

The median home price is around $380,000. Annual property taxes for most homeowners fall between $2,599 and $3,210. Renters are averaging about $1,949 per month.

What are the best neighborhoods to buy a home in Longwood, FL?

It depends entirely on your routine. The 32750 ZIP code puts you near historic downtown. The 32779 ZIP code puts you closer to Wekiva Springs. Pick based on how you spend your time.

What is there to do for fun in historic downtown Longwood?

The district has local shops, architectural character, and municipal events throughout the year. The SunRail station is also located here if you'd rather skip the drive into Orlando.