When planning a trip to central Florida, especially if you're heading to Disney World, the big question isn't just where to stay-it's where to stay for less. Many travelers assume Orlando is the only option, but Kissimmee sits just 10 miles southwest of the parks and often costs significantly less. So, is Kissimmee really cheaper than Orlando? The answer isn’t just yes-it’s how much cheaper, and what you actually get for that savings.
Hotel Prices: The Biggest Difference
On average, a mid-range hotel room in Kissimmee costs between $85 and $140 per night in 2025. In Orlando, especially near International Drive or near the Disney gates, you’re looking at $130 to $250 for the same type of room. That’s not a small gap-it’s often 40% to 60% less in Kissimmee. A family of four staying for five nights could save $1,000 or more just by choosing Kissimmee over Orlando.
Why the difference? Orlando hotels are packed with brand-name chains that charge premium prices for proximity to the parks. Kissimmee has more independent motels, vacation rentals, and smaller resorts that don’t have the same marketing budgets. But here’s the twist: many Kissimmee hotels still offer free shuttles to Disney World, same pool access, same breakfast, same parking. You’re not giving up comfort-you’re skipping the brand markup.
Vacation Rentals: More Space, Less Money
If you’re traveling with kids or a group, vacation rentals are where Kissimmee really pulls ahead. A 3-bedroom condo with a pool and full kitchen in Kissimmee averages $180-$250 per night. In Orlando, the same property starts at $300 and often climbs past $400 during peak season. That’s a $1,200+ difference over a week.
And it’s not just about the price. Kissimmee rentals are often newer, bigger, and located in gated communities with better amenities. You get a full kitchen to save on meals, a washer/dryer to cut down on laundry costs, and more outdoor space for kids to run around. Orlando rentals tend to be smaller, older, and crammed into tighter neighborhoods.
Food Costs: Cook or Eat Out?
Food isn’t dramatically cheaper in Kissimmee-grocery prices are nearly identical across both cities. But here’s the real advantage: if you’re staying in a vacation rental with a kitchen, you can save hundreds by cooking breakfast and some dinners. In Orlando, even budget restaurants charge $15-$20 per person for a basic meal. In Kissimmee, you’ll find the same chain restaurants, but with fewer tourists around, some local spots offer better deals.
Try La Michoacana in Kissimmee for fresh Mexican food under $10 a plate, or the food trucks near the Walmart on Us-192 for $5 tacos. Orlando’s tourist corridors are full of overpriced buffets and souvenir shops selling $8 pretzels. Kissimmee has more real local flavor-and less of the Disney tax.
Transportation: Do You Need a Car?
Both cities require a car if you want to get anywhere beyond your hotel. But Kissimmee’s location gives you a practical edge. Most Kissimmee hotels are within 5-10 minutes of Disney World’s main entrances. Orlando hotels near International Drive are often 15-25 minutes away, depending on traffic. That’s more gas, more parking fees, and more time lost in traffic.
Plus, Kissimmee has fewer traffic lights and less congestion. If you’re leaving for the parks at 7 a.m., you’ll get there faster from Kissimmee. Parking at Disney costs $30 per day-no matter where you stay. But if you’re saving 15 minutes each way, that’s 1.5 hours saved over a 5-day trip. Time is money, too.
Attractions and Activities: Same Parks, Different Prices
Disney World, Universal, and SeaWorld tickets cost the same whether you buy them from Kissimmee or Orlando. But here’s where Kissimmee sneaks ahead: nearby attractions. Gator Park, the Orlando Eye, and the Kennedy Space Center are all accessible from both cities. But Kissimmee has its own hidden gems-like the Kissimmee Lakefront Park, which offers free boat rentals, or the Osceola County Historical Society Museum, which charges just $5 entry.
And don’t overlook the shopping. Kissimmee’s Premium Outlets are just a 10-minute drive from most hotels. Orlando’s Florida Mall and Disney Springs are great, but they’re packed, expensive, and often feel like one big gift shop. Kissimmee’s outlets have the same brands-Nike, Coach, Sephora-but with fewer crowds and more staff available to help you find deals.
Hidden Costs: What No One Tells You
Orlando has more hidden fees. Many hotels charge $15-$25 per night for resort fees-even if you don’t use the spa or pool. Kissimmee hotels rarely do. Some Orlando hotels also charge for Wi-Fi, parking, or even using the in-room safe. In Kissimmee, those are usually included.
Also, consider taxes. Both cities have the same 7% state sales tax, but Orlando adds a 6% tourist development tax on hotel stays. Kissimmee charges only 5%. It’s a small difference per night, but over a week, it adds up to $20-$30 extra in Orlando.
Who Should Stay Where?
Choose Kissimmee if you want to:
- Save money on lodging and food
- Stay in a larger space with a kitchen
- Minimize daily driving time to the parks
- Avoid resort fees and hidden charges
- Enjoy quieter streets and fewer crowds
Choose Orlando if you:
- Want to be right in the middle of nightlife and entertainment
- Plan to visit Universal Studios and CityWalk daily
- Don’t mind paying extra for a “Disney-adjacent” address
- Prefer staying in a big-name hotel with a full-service spa or concierge
Most families visiting Disney World for 5-7 days don’t need to be in Orlando. They need value, space, and convenience. Kissimmee delivers all three.
Real Example: A Family’s Trip
Last March, the Rodriguez family from Ohio booked a 6-night trip. They chose a 3-bedroom Kissimmee vacation rental for $210/night ($1,260 total). They drove 8 minutes to Disney World every day. They cooked breakfast and two dinners a day, spending $60 on groceries. They ate out for lunch and one dinner-$120 total. Parking at Disney: $180. Gas: $50.
If they’d stayed in Orlando, they’d have paid $350/night for a similar-sized condo ($2,100 total), plus $120 in resort fees, $80 in Wi-Fi, and $200 more in food because they didn’t cook. Total: $2,700.
They saved $1,440. That’s enough to buy two extra park tickets, or take the whole family to a water park, or put it toward a future trip.
Final Verdict
Yes, Kissimmee is cheaper than Orlando-and not just a little. It’s consistently 30-60% less expensive for lodging, with better value for vacation rentals, fewer hidden fees, and the same access to Disney World. You don’t sacrifice convenience. You don’t sacrifice quality. You just skip the tourist premium.
If your goal is to enjoy Florida without draining your savings, Kissimmee isn’t just a smart choice-it’s the smarter one.
Is Kissimmee safe for families?
Yes, Kissimmee is generally safe for families, especially in the areas near major hotels and vacation rental complexes. Most tourist zones have low crime rates, and the areas around Us-192 and the Disney access roads are well-lit and patrolled. Stick to the main roads and avoid wandering into less-traveled neighborhoods at night, just like you would in any city.
How far is Kissimmee from Disney World?
Most Kissimmee hotels are 5 to 10 minutes from the main entrances to Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios. That’s often quicker than staying in Orlando, where traffic on I-4 can add 15-25 minutes to your drive.
Do Kissimmee hotels offer free shuttles to Disney?
Many do-especially the larger resorts and vacation rental management companies. Check with your booking agent or hotel directly. Some shuttles run every 30 minutes from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., and they’re usually free for guests. This makes a car optional if you’re only visiting Disney and nearby attractions.
Are there grocery stores in Kissimmee?
Yes. Walmart, Publix, Target, and Aldi are all within a 5-10 minute drive from most Kissimmee hotels. Many vacation rentals are located right next to shopping centers with grocery stores, making it easy to stock up on snacks, drinks, and breakfast items.
Is Kissimmee better for a Disney trip than Orlando?
For most families, yes. Kissimmee offers lower prices, more space, fewer hidden fees, and equally fast access to Disney World. Unless you plan to spend most of your time in Universal CityWalk or Orlando’s nightlife, there’s little reason to pay more to stay in Orlando.
If you’re planning your next Florida trip, skip the Orlando price tag. Kissimmee gives you the same magic-without the markup.