Mills 50 isn’t your average Orlando neighborhood—it’s a mashup of creativity, culture, and community. Locals love it. Visitors are curious about it. And for those thinking about moving here? You’re in for something special.
Whether you’re house hunting nearby, scoping out walkable spots, or just want to explore what life is really like, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about living in Mills 50.
Where Is Mills 50, Exactly?
Mills 50 is named after the intersection of Mills Avenue (U.S. 17/92) and Colonial Drive (State Road 50)—right in the heart of Orlando. It borders areas like Colonialtown, Lake Eola Heights, and Park Lake/Highland, making it one of the most walkable, bike-friendly spots in the city.
You’ll find quirky shops, indie restaurants, colorful murals, and a ton of personality packed into just a few city blocks. It’s no surprise more people are interested in living in Mills 50 now than ever before.
? Location perks: You’re just minutes from Downtown Orlando, I-4, and major hubs like Ivanhoe Village and Audubon Park.
What Makes Mills 50 Unique
This isn’t a master-planned neighborhood—it grew organically, driven by locals and small business owners. The result? A place where everything feels a little more personal, a little more bold, and a whole lot more fun.
Expect:
- Street art on nearly every wall
- Eclectic bars, cafés, and late-night eats
- A thriving LGBTQ+ community
- Some of Orlando’s best Vietnamese food
- Local businesses, not big box stores
? Fun fact: Mills 50 is one of Orlando’s official Main Street Districts, meaning it gets special support for preserving its small-business charm and historic feel.
The Food Scene: A Perk of Living in Mills 50
Mills 50 is hands-down one of the best places to eat in Orlando. You’ll find everything from family-owned pho spots to modern craft cocktail lounges—sometimes on the same block.
Favorites include:
- King Bao – wildly popular for bao buns and street food
- Tori Tori – Japanese pub fare with serious style
- Black Rooster Taqueria – fresh tacos in a cool space
- The Strand – a neighborhood gem for upscale American eats
- Royal Tea – colorful boba tea and Asian desserts
- Zymarium Meadery – local honey meads and an artistic vibe
?️ Locals tip: There’s no shame in doing a DIY food crawl here. Start with a banh mi, follow with bao, and end with something sweet and boozy.
Murals, History, and Our Roots in the Neighborhood
Living in Mills 50 means being surrounded by art and history. It’s a neighborhood where nearly every wall is a canvas, and every building has a story.
The Nickley Group is proud to call Mills 50 home. Our office is located in the historic Cameo building, a beloved piece of local architecture that once operated as a neighborhood movie theater. We love that our workspace is part of Mills 50’s legacy.
In 2024, we added a vibrant new mural to our building, designed by SKIP from A Pivotal Character. It features the Orlando skyline, iconic homes from Colonialtown, and swans that symbolize the city. Whether you’re walking or driving by, it’s hard to miss—and it reflects the energy of living in Mills 50.
? We also hosted Lake Highland Prep students to install QR-coded stories on murals across the neighborhood, encouraging interactive art experiences for locals and visitors alike.
The Day to Day
Living in Mills 50 means:
- Walking to your favorite café
- Seeing your barista, tattoo artist, and real estate agent at the same dive bar
- Living near it all—without feeling too “big city”
- Embracing a neighborhood with real personality
The housing here is diverse—bungalows, mid-century ranch homes, apartments, and townhomes all mix together. Yards tend to be small, but walkability and charm are high.
? There’s no HOA—and that freedom shows in the best way.
Community, Culture, and Events
Mills 50 may be eclectic, but it’s deeply community-driven. Expect events like:
- Local art shows
- Night markets and food pop-ups
- Fundraisers and clean-up days
- Pride celebrations
- Community bike rides
Organizations like Mills 50 Main Street work to preserve the area’s local flair. Businesses support one another, and neighbors show up for each other.
? The Nickley Group frequently sponsors and attends events right here in the neighborhood—we’re not just agents here; we’re neighbors.
Real Estate and the Cost of Living
Mills 50 has become a hot spot in the last decade, and demand continues to rise. It’s still more affordable than nearby Winter Park or College Park, but the competition can be strong.
If you’re considering living in Mills 50, here’s what to expect:
- Median home prices from the high $300Ks to $600Ks+
- Many homes were built mid-century and may be updated
- Mixed zoning means you might live steps from your favorite café or gallery
It’s a great area for those who value originality, walkability, and a connected community.
? Interested in what’s currently available? Our team can show you what homes are really selling for in Mills 50 and help you plan your move.
Is It Right for You?
This neighborhood is ideal for:
- People who prefer local over chain
- Creative spirits who want inspiration in their surroundings
- Buyers looking for unique homes in an urban-but-welcoming setting
- Anyone who wants to be close to downtown but not caught in the middle of it
Living in Mills 50 means choosing authenticity over polish—and a community that embraces that.
Thinking About Living in Mills 50? Let’s Talk
We don’t just sell homes in Mills 50. We live, work, and invest in this neighborhood every day. From our office in the historic Cameo building to our ongoing support of local businesses and artists, we’re proud to be part of what makes this area shine.
If you’re curious about homes for sale, current market trends, or just want a local’s perspective, we’re happy to help.
Let’s connect and talk about what living in Mills 50 could look like for you!