Build-to-Rent Developments: A New Affordability Frontier for Orlando Tenants

Orlando's rental market has seen a significant shift in recent years, with build-to-rent developments becoming an increasingly popular option for tenants. According to a report by the National Association of Realtors, the city's rental market has grown by 15% in the past year alone, with the average rent for a single-family home reaching $1,800 per month.

This trend matters now more than ever, as the affordability gap between renting and buying continues to widen. With the median home price in Orlando hovering around $340,000, many would-be buyers are finding themselves priced out of the market. Build-to-rent developments, which involve building entire communities of single-family homes specifically for rent, offer a unique solution to this problem. By providing high-quality, newly constructed homes at competitive rental rates, these developments are helping to fill the affordability gap and provide tenants with a more desirable alternative to traditional apartment living.

In Orlando, build-to-rent developments are popping up in neighborhoods like Lake Nona and Winter Park, where tenants can enjoy access to top-rated schools, amenities like the Winter Park Chain of Lakes, and proximity to major employment hubs like the University of Central Florida and the Orlando International Airport. Companies like American Homes 4 Rent and Invitation Homes are leading the charge, with developments like the 200-home community on Alafaya Trail and the 150-home community on Semoran Boulevard. The City of Orlando's own affordable housing initiative, the Orlando Housing Authority, is also exploring partnerships with build-to-rent developers to increase the availability of affordable housing options.

By the Numbers

A closer look at the data reveals just how significant the build-to-rent trend is becoming in Orlando. According to a report by the real estate research firm, Zillow, the average rent for a single-family home in the city has increased by 12% in the past year, outpacing the national average. Meanwhile, the average sales price for a single-family home has risen by 18% over the same period, making it even more difficult for would-be buyers to enter the market. Build-to-rent developments, on the other hand, are offering rental rates that are competitive with traditional apartments, with prices starting at around $1,500 per month for a 3-bedroom home. As of June 2026, there are over 1,000 build-to-rent homes either under construction or in the planning stages in Orlando, with many more expected to come online in the next 12-18 months.

So what does this mean for tenants in Orlando? For those who are struggling to find affordable housing options, build-to-rent developments may offer a welcome respite. With their focus on quality, amenities, and community, these developments are helping to redefine the rental experience in the city. As the market continues to evolve, it will be important for tenants to do their research and explore all of their options, including build-to-rent developments, to find the best fit for their needs and budget. The Orlando Regional Realtor Association is a good resource for those looking to learn more about the build-to-rent market and how it may impact their housing decisions.