One of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in America, Central Florida combines soaring business activity with recreational activities that range from water sports to world-famous theme amusement parks. Central Florida has 1.5 million people living within its boundaries and 40,000 more come to the area each year. The population of the area is young (the median age is 35.4) which adds to the excitement and vitality of the region.
Time, Fortune and Newsweek magazines have named Orlando, Florida as one of the best places to live and work in the United States. Orlando is the world's premier tourist destination and an attractive place for business start-ups, expansions and relocations. The metro Orlando area is home to major corporations such as Lockheed Martin, Oracle Corporation, Cirent Semiconductor, Tupperware International, First USA, Darden Restaurants, Hughes Supply, Harcourt Brace and AAA to name a few. Orlando's growth and prosperity are due in no small part to its quality of life, stemming from its beautiful parks and lakes, tree-lined streets, lush landscaping, charming neighborhoods, pleasant climate and thriving economy. Each week, the Orlando Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) produces an estimated:
Orlando's Flourishing Economy