Lake Nona changed Central Florida forever. What started as rural farmland became one of the region’s most prestigious master-planned communities, complete with medical facilities, top-rated schools, and home values that have consistently outpaced the market.
Now, the same developers behind Lake Nona’s success story are writing a new chapter just seven miles away. Sunbridge, spanning 27,000 acres across Orange and Osceola counties, promises to be even more ambitious than its famous neighbor.
But is it truly the next Lake Nona?
Let’s examine what makes Sunbridge different and whether it’s positioned to become Central Florida’s next powerhouse community.
The Tavistock Advantage: Proven Track Record
When Tavistock Development Company broke ground on Lake Nona over two decades ago, skeptics wondered if the remote location would ever attract residents. Today, Lake Nona is home to the University of Central Florida’s medical school, major corporate headquarters, and some of the highest property values in Orlando.
Sunbridge benefits from this proven expertise. The same team that transformed pastureland into a thriving medical city is now applying those lessons to create what they call a “naturehood”, a community where environmental stewardship meets modern living.
Unlike Lake Nona’s focus on technology and healthcare, Sunbridge emphasizes sustainability and nature integration. Over 13,000 of its 27,000 acres are permanently preserved as wetlands and conservation areas, creating a living ecosystem that residents can explore daily.
Value Comparison: More Space for Your Money
One of Sunbridge’s biggest advantages over Lake Nona is value. While Lake Nona real estate commands premium prices, Sunbridge offers larger homes and lots at more accessible price points.
In Weslyn Park Sunbridge, new construction homes range from the $600s to over $1 million, offering families significantly more space than comparable properties in Lake Nona. The active adult community at Del Webb Sunbridge provides luxury retirement living starting in the high $300s.
This pricing advantage won’t last forever. Early Lake Nona buyers who purchased homes in the $200s and $300s watched their investments appreciate dramatically as the community matured. HOA fees at Del Webb Sunbridge are also currently lower than many established communities, providing additional value for buyers.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
Sunbridge’s strategic location provides easy access to Orlando International Airport, downtown Orlando, and the Space Coast. The community’s master plan includes the future Sunbridge Parkway, which will enhance connectivity even further.
The 700-acre Sunbridge Business Park is already attracting major employers. Blue Origin established a significant presence in 2024, becoming Orlando’s largest commercial lease that year. This job creation within the community reduces commute times and supports long-term property values.
Future development includes Marina Village, a waterfront hub featuring 9 million square feet of commercial space, dining, entertainment, and 500 hotel rooms. This mixed-use approach creates the foundation for sustained economic growth.
Sustainability as a Selling Point
While Lake Nona focused on technology and medical innovation, Sunbridge differentiates itself through environmental leadership. All homes are pre-wired for solar panels and electric vehicle charging, positioning residents ahead of Florida’s growing emphasis on sustainable living.
The community’s trail system connects neighborhoods through preserved natural areas, offering residents daily access to hiking, biking, and nature observation. This “naturehood” concept appeals to buyers seeking a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing modern conveniences.
Buying a new construction home in Sunbridge means investing in energy-efficient designs that will save money on utility costs while supporting environmental goals.
The Investment Case
Several factors suggest Sunbridge could follow Lake Nona’s appreciation trajectory:
Limited Supply: With controlled development over a 30+ year timeline, scarcity will support values as demand increases.
Job Growth: The Business Park is attracting aerospace, distribution, and technology companies, creating local employment opportunities.
Location Benefits: Positioned between Orlando and the Space Coast, Sunbridge offers access to multiple job markets.
Infrastructure Investment: Ongoing improvements in roads, utilities, and amenities support long-term growth.
Demographic Trends: Florida’s population growth continues, especially in Central Florida’s corridor between Orlando and the coast.
For answers to common concerns about this emerging community, check out our comprehensive guide to the top 15 Sunbridge questions.
What Sets Sunbridge Apart
Sunbridge isn’t simply trying to replicate Lake Nona’s success. It’s creating its own identity. The focus on environmental stewardship, family-friendly amenities, and diverse housing options appeals to a broader demographic than Lake Nona’s medical and tech focus.
The community serves multiple markets simultaneously. Families appreciate Weslyn Park’s parks, trails, and new STEM school. Active adults find resort-style living at Del Webb without the isolation of typical retirement communities. Young professionals benefit from the Business Park’s growing job opportunities.
This diverse appeal provides stability that single-focus communities sometimes lack.
Contact Us for Expert Guidance
The parallels between early Lake Nona and today’s Sunbridge are striking. Both communities benefit from Tavistock’s expertise, strategic locations, and long-term development vision. Both offer value opportunities for early buyers willing to invest in the future rather than pay premium prices for established communities.
Whether Sunbridge becomes “the next Lake Nona” depends partly on timing, market conditions, and continued economic growth. But the fundamentals, proven developer, strategic location, job creation, and controlled supply, suggest strong potential for long-term appreciation.If you’re considering a move to Central Florida’s most promising new community, now is the time to explore your options. Contact Mike Chen at (503) 888-8070 for expert guidance on finding the perfect home in Sunbridge.
