The Sunshine State has quickly become competition to California as the preferred destination of Americans. With its number of worldclass cities and its gorgeous weather, Florida is drawing attention from Americans looking to relocate to a better part of the country. Although cities like Orlando and Miami attract the most attention, it's smaller cities like Oakland that make up the backbone of the Sunshine State's appeal.

Located in Orange County, Oakland is located within central Florida. Home to a total population of 936 according to the 2000 census, this semi-rural community is an excellent haven from the big city bustle of Florida cities like Jacksonville.

A place where everybody knows your name, the residents of Oakland often equate the town to a "sophisticated Mayberry." Despite its rural roots, Oakland has all of the amenities that you would expect from a larger city. It is a multi-cultural community that has taken great pains to control its development to ensure that any new architecture would be tasteful and that no particular type of industry will dominate the town.

Conveniently located 17 miles west of downtown Orlando and 42 miles north of Walt Disney World, the town of Oakland is praised as a community that typifies the best of small town America. With importance placed on good morals, safety, and education, it's easy to understand why many consider Oakland to be one of the best places to raise a family.