Updated August 2026 · 7 min read
The three main tiers
Disney groups its on-site resorts into value, moderate and deluxe tiers (with a further deluxe villa category for larger, more apartment-style accommodations), priced accordingly. Every tier gets access to Disney's free internal transportation network and other core on-site perks — what changes between tiers is room size and quality, theming detail, dining variety, and generally how close a resort sits to the parks.
Value resorts
Disney's most affordable on-site tier — smaller standard rooms, simpler theming, and typically a longer bus ride to the parks compared with pricier tiers. A sensible choice for travellers who want genuine on-site perks (transportation network, Disney atmosphere) without paying for extensive amenities they may not use much.
Moderate resorts
A step up in room size and theming detail, often built around a more elaborate central theme with larger pool areas and more dining variety than value resorts. This tier tends to be the sweet spot for families wanting more space and atmosphere without paying deluxe-level prices.
Deluxe resorts
Disney's top on-site tier, including many of the resorts closest to the parks (some within walking distance or a short monorail/boat ride of Magic Kingdom or EPCOT specifically). Expect larger rooms, more extensive amenities and dining, and the shortest possible commute to the parks — the trade-off is a significantly higher nightly rate than the other tiers.
How to choose
| Priority | Best tier |
|---|---|
| Lowest on-site price | Value |
| Balance of space and price | Moderate |
| Shortest possible park commute, most amenities | Deluxe |
| Multi-family trip needing separate sleeping/living space | Deluxe Villas |
Compare against Lake Buena Vista or Kissimmee before assuming on-site is necessary
If deluxe pricing is out of reach but you still want to be close to Disney, it's worth comparing a value or moderate resort against a nearby off-site option in Lake Buena Vista (see our Lake Buena Vista hotels guide) — sometimes off-site gets you more space for a similar price to Disney's own value tier.
- Do all Disney resort tiers get the same transportation access?
- Yes — access to Disney's bus network is standard across all on-site tiers, though only certain deluxe resorts get monorail or boat access specifically, depending on their location.
- Is a moderate resort worth the price jump over value?
- For many families, yes — the larger rooms and more elaborate pool areas are a noticeable step up. It comes down to how much time you'll actually spend at the resort versus in the parks.