Thinking about investing in an Airbnb in Orlando? You’re not alone. This is one of the top short-term rental markets in the U.S., thanks to year-round tourism, the draw of Disney, and a steady demand for 5-star guest experiences. But here’s the thing: not all neighborhoods deliver the same returns. Some shine, others disappoint.
Read on to learn about the best short-term rental communities in Orlando, the ones with strong vacation home ROI, guest-loved amenities, and prime Disney area short-term rental locations.
If you’re buying to earn, this is the list you want.
What Makes a Community “The Best” for Short-Term Rentals?
Not every Orlando neighborhood is built for short-term rental success. The best ones combine the right mix of location, guest appeal, and owner-friendly policies because owning a vacation rental isn’t just about the house but the setup around it.
Here’s what we look for when evaluating top-performing Disney rental properties:
- Prime Location: Close to Disney, Universal, and other Orlando vacation hotspots. Guests want convenience.
- Resort-Style Amenities: Think lazy rivers, water parks, clubhouses, and more. These elevate the guest experience and help earn 5-star reviews.
- Short-Term Rental Zoning: Not every HOA or county allows vacation rentals. The best communities do—and they welcome them.
- Strong Earning Potential: High occupancy and competitive nightly rates translate into better vacation rental ROI.
- Property Variety: Whether it’s a private pool villa or a spacious townhome, it’s key to have options that appeal to different guest types.
- On-the-Ground Support: Access to local cleaners, handymen, and a trusted Airbnb hosting service helps smooth your operations.
When you combine these elements, you’re not just buying a property but making a smarter Orlando vacation home investment.
Top 11 Best Short-Term Rental Communities in Orlando
1. Solterra Resort – Where ROI Meets Resort Vibes
If you’re looking for a vacation home investment that practically sells itself to guests, Solterra Resort deserves a top spot on your list. Tucked away in Davenport, just minutes from Walt Disney World and I-4, Solterra brings the best of both worlds: a peaceful, gated escape with lightning-fast access to Orlando’s theme parks and shopping.
The resort’s amenities are serious booking magnets: a lazy river, waterslides, a clubhouse with café, and poolside cabanas all create a 5-star guest experience families crave. Homes here range from 4-bedroom townhomes to massive 14-bedroom villas ideal for large family gatherings or multi-generational vacations, which often fetch premium nightly rates.
HOA and zoning? Investor-friendly. Solterra is fully short-term rental approved and supported by trusted local management options. That means less red tape and more time enjoying your vacation home ROI.
Why guests love it:
- Resort-style water park with a lazy river, water slide, hot tub
- Mediterranean-inspired clubhouse with gym, café, and meeting space
- Minutes to Disney, Posner Park shops, and Imax movie theater
Why investors love it:
- Strong occupancy rates, especially during school holidays
- A balanced mix of new construction and resale inventory
- Proven Airbnb hosting service support for hands-free management
2. ChampionsGate Resort – The Airbnb Powerhouse with Golfside Glamour
Ask any experienced Airbnb host what communities dominate the Orlando short-term rental market, and ChampionsGate Resort will be one of the first names they mention. Located just 15 minutes from Disney and anchored by a prestigious golf course and the upscale Omni Orlando Hotel, this master-planned mega-resort is the definition of “booked solid.”
ChampionsGate isn’t just big—it’s brandable. The name alone boosts guest confidence. Listings tagged “ChampionsGate” often perform better across major platforms like Airbnb and VRBO thanks to its reputation for top-tier amenities: 2 resort-style pools, a lazy river, Tiki bar, the Oasis Clubhouse, and even a movie theater.
The property types here range from luxury condos to spacious single-family pool homes. Whether you want to attract golfers, large families, or snowbirds, you can confidently tailor your investment strategy.
What makes ChampionsGate investor gold:
- Short-term rental zoning is solid and well-established
- Guests search for it by name, meaning your listing gets more clicks
- A steady stream of return visitors and snowbirds
Nearby perks:
- Golf at two Greg Norman-designed courses
- Dining and spa at the Omni Hotel
- Fast access to I-4, Disney, and Orlando International Airport
3. Storey Lake Resort – The Sweet Spot Between Disney and Universal
Location matters in real estate, and for short-term rentals, it’s everything. Storey Lake Resort sits in one of the most enviable spots in Orlando: just off Highway 192, minutes from Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and SeaWorld. This makes it an instant “yes” for guests browsing vacation homes near the parks.
But Storey Lake isn’t just about location, and it brings the fun home with water slides, a splash pad, kayak rentals, and a lazy river that kids adore. Parents? They appreciate the tiki bar and outdoor dining.
From a property perspective, Storey Lake offers a smart mix of townhomes with private splash pools and luxury single-family homes with full-size pools. The HOA is short-term-rental friendly, and thanks to consistent demand, units here rarely sit empty.
Why Storey Lake stands out:
- Year-round bookings are driven by location and amenities
- Highly sought after by families and international guests
- Excellent for investors wanting strong ROI with minimal downtime
Bonus: The surrounding area is filled with outlet malls, restaurants, and entertainment—all of which keep guests happy and coming back.
4. Reunion Resort – Luxury, Lifestyle, and Long-Term Value
Suppose you’re thinking big, like golf courses, rooftop pools, and private water parks. Reunion Resort is your playground. This gated luxury community is just 6 miles from Walt Disney World, but it feels worlds away in terms of elegance and exclusivity.
What sets Reunion apart for investors? It attracts a premium guest demographic: golfers, multi-family vacationers, and international travelers who expect more than just a place to sleep. Reunion is one of Orlando’s few vacation rental communities with three championship golf courses, a 5-acre water park, and rooftop dining with panoramic views of Disney fireworks.
Homes here lean upscale, with 6–12 bedroom estates, themed rooms, game lofts, and private pools. This drives top-dollar bookings and longer average stays, making it a top performer in vacation home ROI.
Why Reunion earns 5 stars:
✔️ Golf courses by Nicklaus, Palmer & Watson
✔️ 7 community pools + water park with lazy river
✔️ Fine dining, spa, and tennis courts on-site
✔️ Rooftop bar with Disney fireworks views
Why investors pay attention:
✔️ High-end properties attract higher nightly rates
✔️ Established short-term rental support + zoning
✔️ Perfect for themed Airbnb listings with luxury flair
5. Windsor at Westside – Built for Airbnb Success
Windsor at Westside hits the sweet spot for Airbnb investors looking for high demand, family-focused fun, and easy management. Located in Kissimmee, just 15 minutes from Disney, this gated resort is practically built for short-term rentals.
Its central 10,000 sq ft clubhouse, lazy river, splash pad, tiki bar, and zero-entry pool set the tone for the perfect vacation. The homes, ranging from 5-bedroom townhomes to 9-bedroom villas, are designed with Airbnb in mind: large layouts, multiple suites, game rooms, and screened-in pools.
Its consistent guest demand makes Windsor at Westside stand out for vacation rental ROI. Families love the walkable design, amenities, and proximity to the parks. Meanwhile, owners love the fully short-term rental-approved zoning and available Superhost-run property management to make ownership hands-off.
What guests rave about:
✔️ Lagoon-style pool, lazy river, and splash zone
✔️ Clubhouse with bar, arcade, gym, and sports courts
✔️ Minutes to Disney + Margaritaville’s Sunset Walk
What investors value:
✔️ High-performing Airbnb neighborhood with proven results
✔️ Multiple booking platforms: Airbnb, VRBO, Expedia, Google
✔️ Full-service property management available locally
6. Windsor Hills Resort – The OG Disney-Area Favorite
Don’t let the age fool you. Windsor Hills has been delivering 5-star guest experiences for years and continues to be one of the top-searched Disney area short-term rental communities. It’s located less than 2 miles from the gates of Walt Disney World, and yes, you can see fireworks from the resort!
Guests are drawn to its affordability, convenience, and family-first vibe. The massive lagoon-style pool, waterslide, splash pad, movie theater, and 24/7 gated security make it a popular repeat pick for families.
Windsor Hills offers a mix of 2- and 3-bedroom condos, 3-bedroom townhomes with splash pools, and 4—to 6-bedroom pool homes. Because it’s well-established, pricing is often more accessible, making it a great entry point for investors new to Airbnb in Orlando.
Why Windsor Hills still shines:
✔️ Walkable layout with central pool and clubhouse
✔️ Proximity to Disney unmatched—just minutes away
✔️ Great value + consistent occupancy rates
Why it’s smart for investors:
✔️ Strong track record of performance
✔️ Affordable entry-level pricing compared to newer resorts
✔️ HOA fully supports vacation rentals
7. Vista Cay Resort – The Hidden Gem for Convention + Vacation Travelers
Vista Cay Resort is one of Orlando’s best-kept investment secrets, and savvy hosts know it. Located on Universal Boulevard, right next to the Orange County Convention Center and minutes from Universal Orlando, this resort attracts both leisure guests and business travelers year-round.
Unlike many Disney-focused communities, Vista Cay gives you access to a more diversified guest base, including families, convention-goers, long-term snowbirds, and theme park fans. This means more consistent occupancy and the ability to charge premium rates during major events and expos.
The gated resort is immaculately maintained and loaded with amenities: a lakefront clubhouse, two large pools, a game room, a business center, a fitness room, and even a jogging trail around Lake Cay. It’s also zoned for short-term rentals, and its flexible management rules make it ideal for owners who want both control and freedom.
Why investors love Vista Cay:
- Strong midweek bookings from convention travelers
- Higher-than-average nightly rates during events
- Larger condo-style floor plans (up to 2,200+ sq ft) with upscale finishes
Why guests choose it:
- Walkable to the Convention Center and minutes from Universal
- Heated pools, lake views, and quiet upscale vibes
- Gated, safe, and family-friendly with a central location
If you’re looking for Orlando vacation home investment beyond just Disney travelers, Vista Cay offers smart diversification without sacrificing ROI.
8. Magic Village – Chic, Boutique, and Built for High-End Airbnb
If luxury and Instagrammable design are on your radar, Magic Village needs to be too. This gated community near Disney’s Animal Kingdom stands out with its upscale, contemporary architecture, concierge-style service, and private patio grills perfect for attracting high-paying Airbnb guests looking for something a little extra.
Magic Village is smaller and more intimate than massive resort developments, giving it a boutique hotel feel with the flexibility of vacation rentals. Think 3- and 4-bedroom villas with private hot tubs, gourmet kitchens, and open-concept layouts designed for entertaining. These units are popular with international guests, executives, and stylish family travelers.
There’s also a concierge desk, on-site restaurant, clubhouse, and resort pool, all of which add to the 5-star guest experience and make your listing even more appealing.
Why it’s an investor favorite:
- Sleek modern townhomes command premium nightly rates
- High design = standout photos and more clicks on Airbnb and VRBO
- Proximity to Disney without being in the tourist chaos
Why guests love it:
- Luxury finishes and resort-like touches without hotel pricing
- Ideal for long stays, reunions, and upscale Disney vacations
- In-unit laundry, gated entry, and extra space compared to hotels
Magic Village isn’t just another vacation home, and it’s a statement property that helps your Airbnb stand out from the crowd.
9. Paradise Palms Resort – Proven Performer with Tropical Vibes
If you’re looking for a vacation rental in a community that already has a track record of success, Paradise Palms in Kissimmee checks the boxes. Just minutes from Disney and close to US-192’s shopping and dining strip, this tropical-themed, guard-gated resort has long been a favorite on Airbnb and VRBO.
Paradise Palms boasts amenities that guests rave about: a lagoon-style pool with waterfalls, a clubhouse with a 50-seat movie theater, tennis courts, and a full-service Tiki bar. The lush landscaping and palm-lined streets really sell the “resort” experience, which makes it easier to command strong nightly rates.
What sets Paradise Palms apart for investors is the variety of homes available. Choose from spacious townhomes with private splash pools to larger single-family vacation homes that accommodate multigenerational travelers. The HOA is fully short-term rental approved, and many listings here come with existing bookings, a rare fast-track to early ROI.
Why guests love it:
- Large tropical pool with waterfalls and hot tubs
- Full clubhouse with fitness center, game room, and theater
- Short drive to Disney, Margaritaville, and Sunset Walk
Why investors love it:
- Mature resort with strong historical occupancy data
- Community recognized across booking platforms
- Great mix of property sizes for diverse guest groups
10. Windsor Island Resort – A Newer Star with 5-Star Amenities
Windsor Island Resort is the stylish new sibling in the “Windsor” family of vacation communities—and it’s already living up to the name. Built with the Airbnb economy in mind, this newer development in Davenport offers vacation rental homes that feel more like boutique resorts.
From the moment guests arrive, they’re greeted by wide streets, palm trees, and polished and inviting resort signage. Inside, the amenities are next-level: a lazy river, splash pad, double water slides, mini-golf, outdoor firepit, and even a bar and grill, all designed to keep guests entertained and reviewers leaving 5-star ratings.
Windsor Island offers a curated selection of 5-—to 10-bedroom homes, most with private screened-in pools, game rooms, and large kitchens made for hosting. The HOA is short-term rental friendly, and professional management is easy to arrange thanks to high investor demand in the area.
Why guests love it:
- Endless amenities, including a lazy river, water park, and putt-putt golf
- On-site dining and outdoor lounges
- Brand-new homes with modern design and group appeal
Why investors love it:
- Newer construction = fewer repairs and stronger guest impressions
- Ideal for hosting large groups = higher nightly rates
- Located near other high-performing resorts = proven booking territory
11. Windsor Cay Resort – Early Entry Advantage in a Brand-New Community
Windsor Cay is the next big thing in Central Florida’s short-term rental market. Developed by the same team behind Windsor Hills and Windsor Island, this brand-new resort community in Clermont is your chance to get in early, before prices and competition heat up.
Slated for full amenity completion in 2025, Windsor Cay is already drawing attention for its planned features: a zero-entry resort pool, splash pad, double water slides, fitness center, 9-hole mini golf, and even a bar and grill. It’s built from the ground up to support 5-star guest experiences and high-volume bookings.
The floor plans here are made with Airbnb in mind: 5—to 10-bedroom homes with private pools, open-concept living areas, and game rooms. As a bonus, many homes come with generous incentives from both builders and agents, making them especially attractive for investors seeking strong vacation rental ROI from day one.
Why guests will love it:
- All-new amenities purpose-built for families and groups
- Proximity to Disney, with easy access via Highway 27 and US-192
- Stylish, spacious homes with resort access
Why investors should pay attention:
- Early entry = stronger equity and long-term value
- Brand recognition from the Windsor name
- Full short-term rental approval with support from experienced agents
The Community You Choose Matters Most
Orlando is overflowing with short-term rental potential, but don’t mistake opportunity for automatic success. The difference between a high-performing vacation home and an underwhelming one often comes down to community choice.
Don’t Just Buy—Buy Smart in Orlando.Already own a property in one of these top-performing communities? Let’s make sure it’s earning what it should. We help owners boost bookings, streamline operations, and stop the stress of DIY Airbnb hosting.
