Is Apopka Safe, Pros and cons of living in Apopka
Apopka, Florida, located in Orange County, offers a suburban lifestyle with proximity to major metropolitan amenities. The city has experienced significant population growth, with its estimated population reaching 66,701 in 2026, an increase from 54,928 in 2020 (according to a 2026 estimate). This growth is accompanied by increasing racial diversity and a median age of 38.3 years.
The cost of living in Apopka is generally considered lower than the national average, though specific expenses can vary. Housing costs are notably below the national average, while utility prices are slightly lower. Transportation expenses, including gas prices, are also marginally less than the national average. However, food costs in Apopka are slightly higher than the national average.
Is it Safe to Live in Apopka?
Apopka presents a mixed picture regarding safety, with crime rates that warrant consideration. The overall crime rate in Apopka is higher than the national average. Specifically, violent crime rates are notably elevated compared to national figures.
However, crime statistics can vary significantly by neighborhood within Apopka. Some analyses suggest that Apopka has a crime rate that is lower than the average U.S. city when considering certain metrics, with a crime score indicating a very low crime rate in some areas. Residents often perceive the northwest part of the city as the safest.
Violent Crime Statistics
Violent crimes, including assault, rape, and robbery, are a concern in Apopka. The city’s violent crime rate per 100,000 residents is higher than the national average. These statistics indicate a need for awareness and preventative measures within the community.
Despite the higher overall rates, the chance of becoming a victim of violent crime can vary by neighborhood. Some reports indicate that while Apopka has a higher crime rate than the national average, it is safer than a significant percentage of U.S. cities. This suggests a nuanced view of safety, dependent on specific location within the city.
Property Crime Statistics
Property crimes, such as burglary and theft, are also a factor in Apopka’s safety profile. The property crime rate in Apopka is higher than the national average. These incidents contribute to the overall crime statistics and impact the sense of security for residents.
While specific data on trends for property crimes like vehicle theft and shoplifting are noted, the overall assessment of safety is complex. The city’s crime map indicates that neighborhoods like Forest City and South Apopka have received high safety grades. This highlights the disparity in safety levels across different areas within Apopka.
Cost of Living and Housing in Apopka
Apopka’s cost of living is generally considered more affordable than many other areas, particularly when compared to the national average. This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life, making it an attractive option for many individuals and families.
Housing expenses are a significant factor in Apopka’s cost of living, being considerably lower than the national average. The median home value in Apopka was around $394,963 as of March 2026. Rental prices also tend to be competitive, with an average rent for an apartment around $1,792 in April 2026.
Housing Market Trends
The Apopka housing market has seen fluctuations, with median home prices experiencing some year-over-year changes. As of March 2026, home prices were down 7.0% compared to the previous year, with a median sale price of $400,000. However, other reports indicate a median listing home price of $409,900 in early 2026.
Homes in Apopka are selling at a slightly different pace compared to previous years. In March 2026, homes sold after an average of 73 days on the market, a decrease from 95 days the prior year. The market is described as somewhat competitive, with homes receiving an average of two offers.
Rental Market Overview
The rental market in Apopka offers a range of options. The average rent for an apartment in April 2026 was approximately $1,792, representing a decrease from the previous year. For a one-bedroom apartment, the average rent was around $1,562, while a two-bedroom apartment averaged $1,823.
For those seeking larger accommodations, three-bedroom apartments averaged $2,335. These rental prices are generally lower than the national average, with one report indicating Apopka rents are 6% lower than the national average. However, another source states the average rent in Apopka is $2,255, which is 12.75% higher than the national average.
Job Market and Economy in Apopka
Apopka’s economy is supported by a diverse range of industries and a growing workforce. The city employs approximately 29,944 residents. The largest employment sectors include Health Care & Social Assistance, Retail Trade, and Educational Services.
The average annual salary in Apopka was reported as $45,593 as of April 2026. However, other sources indicate a median household income of $96,884 (as of 2024) and an average annual total compensation of $121,000 based on a smaller sample of profiles. These figures reflect a range of earning potentials within the city.
Major Employers and Industries
Key industries driving employment in Apopka include healthcare, retail, and education. The city also has a presence in professional, scientific, and technical services, which offer higher-paying opportunities. Major employers in the area include large retail chains and service providers.
The job market is powered by residents employed in various roles, with a significant portion in professional or administrative positions. The unemployment rate in Apopka was 4.10% as of the latest data, which is lower than the long-term average. This rate is also comparable to nearby cities like Orlando and Palm Beach Gardens.
Salary and Income Averages
The average salary in Apopka varies depending on the source and methodology. One report states the average annual salary is $45,593, while another indicates a median salary of $42,100. For H1B visa holders in fiscal year 2025, the median salary was $116,351.
The median household income was reported at $96,884 in 2024, with a slight year-over-year growth. This median income is higher than the median income of $91,269 reported by Livability.com. The distribution of salaries shows that most earnings fall between the 25th percentile of $32,922 and the 75th percentile of $56,271 annually.
Climate and Weather in Apopka
Apopka experiences a subtropical climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Throughout the year, temperatures typically range from 47°F to 93°F. The city receives an average annual precipitation of about 55 inches.
Summers in Apopka are long, hot, and humid, with the hottest month being July. During this period, average daily high temperatures are around 92°F, with lows in the mid-70s. The winter months are short and cool, with January seeing average highs around 71°F and lows near 48°F.
Temperature and Rainfall Patterns
The average annual rainfall in Apopka is around 55 inches. August is typically the wettest month, with an average of 9 inches of rain spread over 22 days. Conversely, December is one of the drier months, with approximately 1.8 inches of rain over 7 days.
Humidity can be a significant factor during the summer months, from June to October, making the air feel uncomfortably warm. The city experiences approximately 193 days per year with comfortable weather, generally between January and April, and again from November to December.
Education and Schools in Apopka
Apopka is served by the Orange County Public School District, which includes numerous elementary, middle, and high schools. The quality of education can vary across the district, with some schools performing better than others according to various rankings.
Public schools in Apopka have an average ranking of 4 out of 10, placing them in the bottom 50% of Florida public schools. Minority enrollment is 77% of the student body, which is higher than the state average. Math and reading proficiency scores in Apopka public schools are generally below the Florida public school averages.
Public School Performance
Top-ranked public schools in Apopka include Wolf Lake Elementary School, Wolf Lake Middle School, and Apopka Elementary School. Apopka High School is the largest high school, with over 3,400 students, and ranks among the higher-performing schools in the state, outperforming district and state averages on some standardized tests. However, resource allocation varies significantly among schools, with some spending considerably more per student than others.
Chronic absenteeism is a concern across schools in the area, with rates ranging from 31.4% to 31.4%. This issue may be impacting overall student outcomes and academic performance.
Private and Charter Schools
In addition to public schools, Apopka also has private and charter school options. Schools like Windermere Preparatory School and Lake Highland Preparatory School receive high ratings and serve students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. Orlando Science Middle/High Charter School is another highly-rated option.
These private institutions often offer different educational approaches and may have smaller class sizes, contributing to their varied performance metrics compared to public schools. The presence of these diverse educational settings provides families with a broader spectrum of choices when considering schooling in Apopka.
Demographics and Diversity in Apopka
Apopka is a growing city with an estimated population of 58,232 residents. The city has become more racially diverse since the 2020 Census, with a significant increase in its population. The median age is 38.3 years.
The population is composed of various racial and ethnic groups. White residents constitute approximately 35.2% of the population, followed by Hispanic residents at 29.8%, and Black or African American residents at 25.5%. There are also smaller percentages of Asian and multiracial populations.
Racial and Ethnic Composition
The racial makeup of Apopka shows a diverse community. White (Non-Hispanic) residents are the most common group, followed by Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) residents. Hispanic residents represent a substantial portion of the population, with their share increasing since the 2020 Census.
Apopka is more racially diverse than Florida overall. The city’s Hispanic population is slightly higher than the state average, and its Black population share is considerably higher than the state’s. Asian residents make up about 3.5% of the population, comparable to the state average.
Age and Gender Distribution
The age distribution in Apopka indicates a balanced population across different age groups. Children under 15 make up about 21% of the population, with a notable segment in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 years old comprise 27.8% of residents, while those aged 45 to 64 represent 25.1%.
The gender distribution shows that 52.6% of Apopka’s residents are female, and 47.4% are male. For every 100 females, there are approximately 90.2 males, indicating a slightly higher female population. This demographic profile influences the community’s overall vibe and lifestyle.