Moving from St. Louis, MO, to Orlando, FL

Leaving the Gateway to the West for the City Beautiful 

St. Louis, Missouri’s nickname, “Gateway to the West,” dates back to the pioneer days when Americans began migrating west. Although Orlando is a younger city, and its nickname “The City Beautiful” wasn’t designated until the early 20th century, there is plenty of history to explore. 

There is no clear consensus with up to five legends on how Orlando got its name. However, the city was well established as a popular resort town during the years between the Spanish-American War and World War I. This was years before Walt Disney opened a theme park there in 1971.  

Opportunities in Orlando 

Orlando’s city population of around 308,000 is only slightly larger than St. Louis's, which had nearly 302,000 residents in the 2020 U.S. Census. The metro areas of each city are also similar in size, with 2.8 million in St. Louis and nearly 2.7 million in Orlando. 

Tourism is the top industry in the city, home to major theme parks such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Florida and SeaWorld. There are also multiple job opportunities in aviation, education and healthcare. 

Although the cost of living is higher in Orlando than in St. Louis, unlike Missouri, Florida does not have a state income tax.  

Expect warmer weather and more rain

Due to its subtropical climate, Orlando's weather is warmer and wetter. St. Louis typically has temperatures averaging 23 to 89 degrees, while Orlando’s range is smaller, with average temperatures between 49 and 92 degrees.  

Looking at precipitation, St. Louis averages 42 inches of rain and 16 inches of snow annually, compared to 52 inches of rain and no snow in Orlando. 

You can expect an average of 233 sunny days in Orlando per year — so it holds up to the Florida state nickname of “The Sunshine State.” 

Don’t miss these Orlando attractions 

Besides the major theme parks, Orlando has many other tourist attractions, including museums and parks. Don’t miss these places: 

  • Discovery Cove 
  • Hannibal Square Heritage Center 
  • Orlando Museum of Art 
  • Orlando Science Center 
  • Split Oak Forest Wildlife and Environmental Area 
  • The Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center 
  • Tibet-Butler Preserve 
  • West Orange Trail 

U-Pack can help you move to Florida

U-Pack® has nationwide service centers and more than 25 years of experience. With locations near St. Louis and Orlando, we’re ready to help with your long-distance move. We’re a DIY-moving service where you handle packing, loading and unloading, and then we move your belongings. Get a free online quote today, or give us a call at 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant.