Ideally located between Orlando’s many attractions and the serene beaches on the Atlantic coast, DeLand offers all the charm and potential of small-town living while boasting recreational and cultural opportunities that rival those of bigger cities. Known as the “Athens of Florida,” the thriving community is emerging as a popular destination for young professionals seeking a blend of urban amenities and suburban tranquility.
The DeLand real estate market includes wonderful options for career-minded young adults looking for more than just a place to live, offering lifestyle opportunities that cater to diverse personal preferences, including affordability, accessibility, and entertainment. Homebuyers who choose to make DeLand home enjoy an environment that’s both stimulating and comforting. The city’s rich history, eclectic retail shops, and award-winning eateries are matched by its friendly communities and cultural venues, including community theaters and museums.
Perhaps most importantly, DeLand’s lower-than-average cost of living makes homeownership more attainable for young professionals looking for a place to plant roots and thrive.
DeLand Real Estate: 3 Top Neighborhoods for Young Professionals
DeLand, Florida, features a variety of neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and appeal. In this section, we delve into three neighborhoods that stand out for their community vibe, lifestyle amenities, and appeal to career-minded young adults looking to buy a home in Volusia County.
West DeLand
Strong employment trends, auto racing, and plenty of water recreation options make West DeLand a great place to live.
Located 25 miles from Daytona Beach and 40 miles from Orlando, West DeLand is a small and friendly community with a population of approximately 4,000. Neighborhoods here include Ridgewood Crossing, Beasleys, Payne, and more. Ideally situated in the heart of Volusia County, the area is known for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere, with its beautiful forests, lakes, and open green spaces just waiting to be explored.
While West DeLand might not be the most bustling town, it still has plenty to offer young professionals, particularly those who want to start a family. There are plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, including hiking, biking trails, and fishing. There are also several local shops, restaurants, and cafes that make living here convenient and enjoyable. With its peaceful setting and abundance of outdoor activities, living in West DeLand is a terrific choice for those looking for a quiet place to call home.
West DeLand’s real estate market includes single-family homes, 55 and up communities, and rural living, all within easy highway access to the beach or big city. The town offers a variety of home and living styles, including traditional neighborhoods where the houses have a similar feel, and rural areas where homes are situated on larger lots, some several acres or more. The common thread that runs through West DeLand neighborhoods is that none of them are too far from the downtown shopping district.
House styles range from modest ranch-style homes to large, five-bedroom brick builds. Many homes have large yards, the streets feature paved sidewalks, and there’s plenty of shade provided by the town’s mature trees.
Downtown DeLand
Young professionals interested in a vibrant urban environment should look no further than Downtown DeLand. Offering an eclectic mix of historic charm and modern conveniences, the neighborhood is known for its cultural activities, local businesses, and annual events.
Downtown DeLand’s award-winning main street provides an enjoyable central Florida lifestyle without the crowds of faster-paced Orlando, Tampa, or Jacksonville. Its moderate year-round climate and pleasing blend of local attractions, outdoor activities, and trendy restaurants should make it an addition to any young professional’s real estate shopping list.
A new entry in DeLand’s real estate market is the cottage community of Azalea Walk. The “lock-and-leave” lifestyle of cottage neighborhoods makes them highly appealing to many young working couples. Located just north of downtown, the Azalea Walk development features cottage-style homes surrounded by common gathering spaces and grassy areas. They’re a great option for homebuyers who want a private living environment while still being close to urban amenities. Eco-friendly features include superior energy efficiency and modern floor plans that maximize space and reduce carbon footprints. Busy professionals will appreciate being able to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere without having to maintain extensive grounds or invest in time-consuming upkeep.
Victoria Park
If your preferences lean more toward a planned community, Victoria Park boasts amenities like parks, a golf course, and a community pool. Its modern living space and proximity to downtown DeLand and the I-4 corridor make it a popular choice with young professionals.
The neighborhoods here are all situated among lakes, parks, and natural conservation areas, many with walking and biking paths. It’s a quick 20-minute drive to New Smyrna Beach and just 30 minutes to Orlando. A warm and welcoming master-planned community, Victoria Park is also within proximity to major shopping and retail centers. There’s truly something for everyone!
The neighborhood’s defining attraction is Lake Victoria, a 10-acre park filled with shady trees and cool breezes that make it an ideal destination for evening strolls or weekend picnics. There’s also a children’s playground, a butterfly garden, and an amphitheater. The community’s aquatic center is home to a modern fitness facility and offers year-round relaxation and recreation for all ages.
Other popular neighborhoods young professionals might consider exploring include the Brandywine Area, located just outside DeLand, and North DeLand, which offers housing options for buyers who want to balance cost and living quality.
Ready to Invest in DeLand Real Estate? We’ll Help You Find Your Perfect Neighborhood!
Are you a young professional ready to explore buying a home in the DeLand real estate market? Bee Realty Corp is the top-rated local brokerage known for taking an innovative approach to the homebuying experience, providing creative solutions that help streamline the process for busy professionals.
Our agents’ expertise in the local market, combined with a focus on technology-driven services, ensures a smooth and efficient path toward finding your ideal home. Whether it’s navigating competitive listings, offering virtual tours, or providing detailed neighborhood insights, we tailor our services to meet the unique needs and schedules of emerging professionals.
To view available properties in the neighborhoods mentioned above or to learn about other desirable DeLand and Volusia County locations, contact Bee Realty Corp online or call 386-279-7522.
