Conway is one of south Orlando’s most authentic and overlooked communities — a chain-of-lakes neighborhood with genuine character, longtime residents, and prices that reflect its modest profile rather than its actual desirability. Here’s what living there is actually like.
What Is Conway?
Conway is a community in south Orange County, roughly bounded by SR-528 to the south, Conway Road as its spine, and the Conway Chain of Lakes as its defining natural feature. It includes several distinct neighborhoods including Belle Isle (an incorporated city), Lancaster Park, and the broader Conway area, all sharing access to the beautiful Conway lakes.
The Case For Conway
Conway Chain of Lakes: The Conway Chain of Lakes is one of central Orlando’s most beautiful lake systems — a series of connected lakes popular for boating, skiing, and lakefront living. Waterfront properties here offer access that’s increasingly rare and affordable compared to the Butler Chain in west Orange County.
Established community: Conway has long-established neighborhoods with deep-rooted residents, mature trees, and a community character that isn’t being manufactured — it developed organically over decades.
Location: Conway sits in a genuinely convenient south Orlando position, close to the airport (10–15 minutes), downtown Orlando (15 minutes), and the SR-408 expressway.
Value: Conway represents some of the best lakefront value in Orange County, with median prices running $380,000–$650,000 depending heavily on lake access and lot size.
The Honest Downsides
Airport noise: Some Conway areas fall under flight paths to and from Orlando International Airport. This varies significantly by exact location — research noise patterns for specific addresses before buying.
Flood zones: Lake-adjacent properties in Conway often carry flood zone designations. Verify insurance requirements carefully.
School variability: Conway area schools vary in quality. Research specific schools rather than assuming uniformity.
Who Is Conway Right For?
Conway is an ideal fit for lake lovers, boating enthusiasts, airport workers, and buyers seeking established Orlando character with lake access at prices below comparable lake communities in west Orange County.
How Does It Compare?
Compare Conway to other south Orlando communities with our Orlando Neighborhood Comparison Tool.
The Bottom Line
Conway is one of Orlando’s most underappreciated communities — genuine lake access, established character, and a central location at prices that reflect its modest profile rather than its actual quality of life. Worth a serious look from buyers who discover it.