Tourism is a primary economic factor in Orlando. The city is home to Walt Disney World, Sea World Orlando and Universal Orlando Resort. The city is regarded as a popular vacation destinations. Walt Disney World is a significant employer in the city. The convention industry is also vital to the local economy. In addition, the city is close enough for residents to commute to work to Patrick Air Force Base, Canaveral Air Force Base and the Kennedy Space Center.
The Orlando metro area includes prominent technology and manufacturing sectors which employ a vast number of people. There are more than 2000 manufacturing companies in the region. Orlando is recognized for providing innovation in the areas of agri-technology, digital media, software, aerospace and aviation. In addition, the metro area includes large centers for modeling, simulation and training businesses. It includes over 100 companies.
The Orlando region is also home to more than 1000 software companies. Over 500 biotechnology and life science firms are also situated in Orlando. In addition, digital media companies, the defense industry, and the growing film, television and electronic gaming sectors provide numerous jobs. The municipality is also a major distribution center.
Orlando was included in the Bizjournals' list of best places to start a small business. In addition, the city has been ranked #4 in Pew Research Center's America's most desirable places to live list.
Major manufacturing and engineering companies with facilities in the Orlando region are shown below:
- Lockheed - Martin
- General Dynamics
- KDF
- Mitsubishi Power Systems
- Harris
- Veritas/Seagate
- Siemens
- USAF
- Delta Connection Academy
- GE
- AT&T
- CAE Systems Flight & Simulation Training
- HP
- Raytheon Systems
- Northrop Grumman
- Agere Systems Inc
- Westinghouse Power Corp
- Hughes Supply
- Constar International
Significant employers in Orlando are:
- Walt Disney World
- Orange County Public Schools
- State of Florida
- Adventist Health System
- Florida Hospital
- Walmart
- Orlando Regional Care System
- Universal Orlando
- Federal Government
- Publix Supermarkets
- Lockheed Martin
- Darden Restaurants
- Sea World Orlando
- Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc
- Rosen Hotel and Resorts
- Cox Enterprises
- Siemens
- Sun Trust Banks Inc
- CVS Corp
- Space Gateway Support
- United Parcel Service Inc
- Loews Cos Inc
- Southwest Airlines
- Mears Transportation Group
- AirTran Airways
- HCA Inc
- Bank of America Corp
The prominent employment sectors include:
- Trade, transportation and utilities
- Leisure and hospitality
- Professional and business services
- Government
- Education and health
- Finance
- Manufacturing
Notable data about Orlando: In 2008 the cost of living index was at 93.4 which is less than the nation's average of 100. In 2007 the estimated median household income was $44,000. About 28% of the residents over the age of 25 have a bachelor's degree or better.
Orlando companies have access to helpful business organizations such as:
- Orlando Chamber of Commerce
- Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission
- Florida Economic Development Council Inc
The Orlando Business Journal offers current information about the business endeavors in Orlando.