How important are school zones to a home's value in Central Florida?

Does living near a school decrease my home's value? Learn how school zones affect home values and buyer demand in Clermont, Winter Garden, Windermere, and Minneola.

LIFESTYLEGENERAL REAL ESTATE

Eric Stalnaker

9/30/20251 min read

A large room with a checkered floor and a door

Even if you don’t have kids, school zones should still matter to you—they’re one of the most consistent drivers of home value in Central Florida.

Here’s why:

Homes in top-rated districts (like Windermere High and East Ridge High) often sell 5–10% higher than similar homes just outside the zone.
GreatSchools and state report cards aren’t everything—but they shape buyer perception, and perception drives price.
Strong districts mean consistent demand, even during slower markets.

2025–2026 snapshot:

Winter Garden and Windermere: Excellent school reputation continues to fuel steady appreciation.
Clermont and Minneola: Improving school ratings are helping these areas attract families priced out of western Orange County.
Montverde: Private education options like Montverde Academy draw luxury buyers seeking both prestige and performance.

Pro tip:
If resale value is your long-term play, buy in or near a sought-after school zone even if it’s not relevant to your household right now.

Bottom line:
You’re not just buying a house—you’re buying into a micro-economy of demand. The right school zone keeps your investment strong, regardless of market swings.

Curious which neighborhoods combine great schools and strong resale potential? I’ll help you narrow your search to the ones with both.