Jalene Stockhausen
Geographically, Volusia County sits 50 miles northeast of Orlando, between the St. Johns River and the Atlantic Ocean.
These days, however, in a region where the growth is pushing outward in all directions, geography doesn’t mean as much as it once did. West Volusia is directly in growth’s path, as metro Orlando spreads north and east along Interstate 4.
Deltona
With nearly 70,000 residents, Deltona has long since surpassed Daytona Beach as the largest municipality in Volusia County. Deltona has seen a 343-percent growth rate since 1980, and adds roughly 1,100 new homes each year.
The widening of the St. Johns River bridge on I-4 alleviated one of the region’s most annoying traffic bottlenecks, making western Volusia an easy 30-minute commute to downtown Orlando.
Lured by that surprising proximity, as well as by the region’s abundance of lakes and springs and the nearby beach, families began flocking to the new home communities near I-4.
DeLand
Buyers have also discovered the impressive stock of historic residences west of Downtown DeLand, which is one of the nicest small towns in Florida. DeLand is the county seat for Volusia County, and the impressive Volusia County Courthouse and the Historic Courthouse in the center of town are focal points in this working city.
The quaint downtown district, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, is thick with eateries and antiques shops. Stetson University, a private college, has been located here for more than a century. This beautiful campus, just north of the Downtown DeLand district, lines Woodland Boulevard with its stately presence, and enriches the town with many cultural and academic opportunities for the community.
Lake Helen
Tiny Lake Helen is still a rural enclave, home to no stoplights or fast-food restaurants, but it is expected to grow 16 percent by 2025.
DeLeon Springs
Those interested in more natural settings, plus an unusual breakfast or lunch, may head north from DeLand on U.S. Highway 17 to DeLeon Springs State Park, where you can cook your own pancakes at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill, then paddle a canoe through the wilderness.
Orange City
In the winter, manatees seeking warmer waters can be seen lolling around at Blue Spring State Park in Orange City. In the summer, families can enjoy the cool waters to seek relief from the heat. This blue oasis is 72 degrees year-round.
DeBary
DeBary is known for its beautiful golf courses, and is a popular place to reside. It borders the St. Johns River and is just a short distance from I-4, making for a convenient commute to any of the high-tech jobs on the I-4 corridor.
West Volusia offers a variety of cities and towns, each with its own flavor. The beauty of the grand oaks and the abundance of lakes and parks make this area pleasing to all its residents and businesses.
— Contributed by the West Volusia Association of Realtors®
When thinking of purchasing a home or commercial business, you can trust a local Realtor®. The West Volusia Association of Realtors is located in Orange City.
The Realtors® of West Volusia have been serving their communities since the 1940s. Put more than 60 years of service to work for you. Visit www.WestVolusiaRealtor.org to find a Realtor® for your West Volusia real-estate needs.
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