Heathrow, Fla., offers residents that suburban experience, but with its own spin on it and proximity to urban conveniences. Located in Seminole County, this family-, retiree- and work-from-home-friendly, master-planned gated community is a peaceful, suburban environment with an upscale vibe. With beautiful homes, top-rated schools, an array of amenities and a rich history, Heathrow is one of Central Florida’s most desired areas to live.
How far away for Orlando is Heathrow? Heathrow is in Central Florida, northeast of Orlando and about 38 miles southwest of Daytona Beach. The town lies on the I-4 Corridor, one of the state’s most heavily traveled routes with access to nearby cities and attractions.
Sunset: This unincorporated suburb is largely residential but includes the Heathrow International Business Center, an office park that houses a wide array of businesses. Heathrow retains a peaceful, residential vibe, but its location near downtown Sanford means residents have easy access to local shopping, dining and entertainment, which is part of the attraction of living there.
Heathrow is a neighborhood of approximately 2,200 residents and features a highly desirable residential area of private, gated homes. Parks, recreational areas, and its exclusive Clubhouse, making it the ideal community for those who like peace and short distances.
Heathrow was established in 1985 by Jeno Paulucci, an entrepreneur who built his fortune in the food industry with Chun King Foods, a pioneering effort that brought American-style Chinese food to the masses. Most of the uses were for farming, especially celery, for Paulucci’s food products, before the area was built out. The neighborhood developed into a residential community in the 1980s and soon gained a reputation as an exclusive, gated community.
Since the population per the town census was 4,068 in 2000, the number has increased consistently over the years. The national company, American Automobile Association (AAA), is based out of Heathrow, adding to the community’s presence in business.
It’s one of the big attractions for Heathrow, this community feel, along with it being a safe and secure environment to be in. Crime is low and the residential areas are well kept. Security is a major advantage because the enclave is a private, gated community and residents always feel safe there.
There is peace in this region but it is enforced so you get the best of life. There are rules covering appearance of houses, property, etc. to keep the overall community looking nice. Finally, while some argue these regulations are excessive, others consider consistency and adherence to these standards very important.
Heathrow might be a charming place to call home, but between the things to do in town and the things to do around town, you won’t be bored here! Off the primary gates is the Heathrow Town Center, which offers a few dining and purchasing options. It ranges from casual places with a few tables next to the counter/takeaway food to more fancy restaurants. Whether you’re brunching or vibing with a cup of fine Joe in the morning, or just after a night of great film dinner, you’ll have no shortage of a great spot right at the heart of the town.
And the nearby downtown Sanford district makes for a fun weekend run. Sanford’s historic district offers distinctive shops, fine restaurants and pleasant views of the St. Johns River. People who live near Heathrow also enjoy the proximity, with their share of tourist sites, food and fun.
Also for movie lovers, the town has a local movie theater as well, where you can see the latest films with loved ones.
Heathrow is served by one of Florida’s top-rated districts for educational standards, Seminole County Public Schools (SCPS), whose utility service team helps keep Heathrow running. The schools near and at Heathrow come consistently high, so this is family-friendly location as well.
Heathrow Elementary School — This community school offers a caring environment coupled with a quality education. They also boast an outstanding teaching staff and community engagement.
Markham Woods Middle School (grades 6-8) is just minutes from Heathrow and provides a solid education. The school offers a very wide curriculum and many extracurricular opportunities to its students.
Lake Mary High School: Another high school nearby known for its academic quality is Lake Mary High School. This includes advanced placement (AP) classes, after school programs, and sports clubs among others, all aimed at preparing students for college.
This was combined with great education opportunities nearby, and families living in Heathrow can thus be assured that their children are receiving a good standard of education.
Heathrow, Florida is a peaceful yet bustling community, making it one of the greatest places to live in Central Florida. Its well-kept homes, good schools and community feel make it popular with families and professionals. It is a great place for anyone seeking a relaxed, yet easily accessible lifestyle due to its abundance of privacy, security, and closeness of such hot spots as downtown Sanford and Orlando.
So if you want to buy a house, have kids or simply a more peaceful rhythm of life without being a million miles from the action, Heathrow has your back. This charming, historic, and modern town is truly one of Central Florida’s hidden gems!