Is North Waterford Lakes safe?
Orlando, Florida · safety score updated nightly
Yes — it is one of the safer places in the metro to walk around.
VibeLoco rates North Waterford Lakes as “Go”.
Gogo's take on North Waterford Lakes
“Go. North Waterford Lakes is a tranquil, well-maintained suburban enclave in East Orlando characterized by very low violent crime and strong residential stability. Visitors will find safe streets, quiet cul-de-sacs, and convenient access to local shopping plazas, though having a personal vehicle is practically mandatory.”
About the area
Located just south of the University of Central Florida, North Waterford Lakes is a planned residential community known for its lake-dotted subdivisions, manicured lawns, and family-oriented environment. It combines a quiet neighborhood feel with swift access to East Orlando's primary commercial corridors along Alafaya Trail.
- Suburban
- Family-Friendly
- Car-Dependent
- Peaceful
Walking and biking in North Waterford Lakes
Walk score: 34/100 · Bike score: 46/100
There is no municipal bike-share system present; cycling is feasible on subdivision streets and marked bike lanes on Alafaya Trail connecting toward UCF's trail network.
Reasons to go, and reasons to think twice
Pros
- Violent crime rates are significantly lower than both Orlando municipal and national averages.
- Strong socioeconomic stability with high median household incomes and high rates of homeownership.
- Well-maintained HOA-governed neighborhoods with manicured sidewalks and recreational amenities.
Cons
- Heavily car-dependent layout with poor pedestrian connectivity across major multi-lane arterials.
- Occasional opportunistic property crimes like unlocked vehicle burglaries in parking lots.
- Suburban sprawl and heavy peak-hour traffic along perimeter routes like Alafaya Trail and SR 50.
Homelessness: Visible homelessness is rarely observed within the interior subdivisions, though minor panhandling occasionally occurs at busy arterial intersections along East Colonial Drive and Alafaya Trail.
What North Waterford Lakes is like at each time of day
- Morning · 5a – 11a
- Very peaceful and secure, filled with residents walking dogs and joggers using subdivision sidewalks.
- Afternoon · 11a – 5p
- Safe and quiet in residential areas, with commercial plazas experiencing steady, manageable traffic.
- Evening · 5p – 10p
- Calm and family-friendly, though perimeter thoroughfares like Alafaya Trail see peak commuter congestion.
- Late night · 10p – 5a
- Generally very quiet and secure, with minimal foot traffic outside of commercial corridors near the university.
Transit, parking and getting around
Public transit is operated by LYNX, with routes such as 104 and 434 running along perimeter arteries like Alafaya Trail and Colonial Drive; there is no rail or BRT service in the immediate area.
Parking is abundant and entirely free, with ample space in private residential driveways, curbs, and massive strip mall surface lots.
Things to do in North Waterford Lakes
- Shop, dine, and catch an IMAX movie at the adjacent outdoor Waterford Lakes Town Center.
- Stroll or jog along the neighborhood lakes and community green spaces.
- Explore the botanical displays and nature trails at the nearby UCF Arboretum.
Local favorites
- Zaza New Cuban Diner · Cuban Restaurant · 4.5★ (1820)A bustling East Orlando fixture serving classic pressed Cuban sandwiches, empanadas, and strong café con leche.
- Sus Hi Eatstation · Sushi Restaurant · 4.6★ (1250)A casual ninja-themed fast-casual spot serving customizable sushi bowls, rolls, and loaded nori burritos.
- Junior Colombian Burger · Latin American Restaurant · 4.4★ (1410)Popular local eatery serving hefty Colombian-style loaded burgers, hot dogs, and late-night arepas.
Scores are safety-driven — recent reported crime and local news plus Census income, poverty, housing, education, household and access data — refreshed nightly. Walk and bike scores are shown separately and do not affect the safety score. A guide, not a guarantee — conditions change street to street.