Listing 8 of the cheapest places to live in Florida!
Florida is popularly known as the Sunshine State because of its beautiful beaches, abundant palm trees and endless sunshine. As most of us know, it’s a popular tourist destination and an affordable holiday spot. But did you know that Florida is also a relatively reasonable place to live – it’s rated the 16th most expensive state to live in the country.
And it’s recommended that you earn a salary of $90,000 USD to live comfortably here – which is certainly achievable. Plus, the cost of living in Florida is 3% below the national average. So, it’s certainly an appealing place to live!
If you stay away from the glitzy (expensive) cities like Miami, you can live a good standard of living in Florida. Cities like Gainesville and Dunedin offer reasonably priced homes and a safe community for their residents.
So, if you’re planning to move to the Sunshine State, we have some handy tips to help you decide what city to move to. We’ve listed below 8 of the cheapest places to live in Florida. So, what are you waiting for – book your flights to Orlando today and get ready to enjoy a beach lifestyle on a budget.
The Cheapest Places to Live in Florida
1. Gainesville
Gainesville, Florida, notably areas like Springhill and Forest Ridge boast plenty of budget-friendly housing like apartments and rental homes.
Florida’s lack of state income tax means residents keep more money, enhancing Gainesville’s affordability.
Healthcare centers around the University of Florida Health System, including Shands Hospital, with private providers supplementing services.
Gainesville provides affordable living, as is exemplified by Springhill and Forest Ridge. No state income tax benefits residents financially. Healthcare is anchored by the University of Florida Health System. Rental costs are reasonable, attracting those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality of life.
2. Cocoa Beach
Located along Florida’s Space Coast, Cocoa Beach is the ideal spot to own a place by the beach without spending a fortune. The city offers many home varieties but most commonly detached large homes. Thankfully, the market here isn’t too competitive, so you’ll get a lot more ‘bang for your buck’. However, the average price of a home here rises every year.
The town has a very relaxed vibe, which we loved! It’s known for its epic beaches and parks like Lori Wilson Park. With a population of just under 12,000 people, it maintains a small-town urban feel. It has plenty of supermarkets, cafes, and restaurants for its residents to enjoy.
3. Lakeland
Located in central Florida, Lakeland presents a whole host of affordable living choices. Neighborhoods like Crystal Lake and Lake Bonny showcase an array of budget-friendly housing options, from cozy apartments to spacious rental homes, catering to anyone searching for economical living arrangements.
One notable financial perk of residing in Lakeland is Florida’s lack of state income tax, which translates to more disposable income for its residents. This monetary advantage significantly bolsters Lakeland’s affordability, rendering it an enticing prospect for couples and families.
Lakeland’s healthcare landscape is strong, too, with multiple medical centers and clinics dotting the cityscape. Among these, Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center offers a wide array of healthcare services. Plus, the city has various private healthcare providers, ensuring residents can access top-notch medical care.
Renting a house or apartment in Lakeland involves a wide range of factors like location, size, and amenities. Lakeland serves as a haven for those seeking affordability without compromising on quality of life. With its budget-friendly neighborhoods, absence of state income tax, robust healthcare infrastructure, and reasonable rental prices, Lakeland is a prime destination if you’re keen on striking a harmonious balance between cost-effectiveness and quality living standards.
4. Dunedin
Dunedin, nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast, offers several options for affordable living. The Highland Lakes neighborhood is one budget-friendly area located north of downtown Dunedin. Here, rental rates are more affordable than in the city center, making it an appealing choice for the budget-conscious or families.
Additionally, neighborhoods like Greenbriar and Barrington Hills provide affordable housing options, particularly for renters seeking cheaper accommodations. These areas offer a suburban feel with convenient access to amenities and services.
With its charming atmosphere and range of housing options, Dunedin provides opportunities for comfortable living within a budget.
5. Orlando
In Orlando, Florida, several areas offer affordable living options fif you’re on a budget. One such area is Pine Hills, located northwest of downtown Orlando. Pine Hills provides a range of housing choices at lower rental rates than the city center, making it an attractive option if you’re after affordable accommodations. Also, neighborhoods like Azalea Park and Conway offer budget-friendly living and various rental options.
Exploring shared housing or renting rooms in private residences can further help reduce living expenses in Orlando. As I’ve said, websites like Craigslist or local Facebook groups often list such opportunities, allowing you to connect with potential roommates and find cost-effective living arrangements.
With its diverse neighborhoods and range of housing choices, Orlando provides options for comfortable living within a budget, allowing residents to enjoy all the city offers without financial strain.
6. Melbourne
Melbourne, nestled in the heart of Florida’s Space Coast, offers the budget-conscious buyer or renter a range of affordable living options. Neighborhoods like Palm Bay and West Melbourne boast a variety of housing choices, including apartments and rental homes, suitable if you’re seeking cost-effective living arrangements.
Florida stands out for its lack of state income tax, providing residents with more take-home pay. This financial advantage makes Melbourne an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their dollars further.
Multiple medical facilities, including Health First’s Holmes Regional Medical Center and Melbourne Regional Medical Center, serve Melbourne’s healthcare needs. These hospitals offer comprehensive services, ensuring residents can access quality medical care nearby.
When renting a house in Melbourne, location, size, and amenities determine prices. Prices may vary depending on specific preferences and the condition of the property.
Melbourne provides affordable living options, with neighborhoods like Palm Bay and West Melbourne offering budget-friendly housing. The absence of state income tax benefits residents financially, while the city’s robust healthcare system ensures access to quality medical services. Rental prices vary but remain reasonable, making Melbourne an appealing choice if you’re seeking affordability without sacrificing quality of life.
7. Dade City
Dade City, situated in Pasco County, Florida, offers several options for affordable living. And it’s renowned as one of the cheapest places to live in Florida. One budget-friendly area is Ridge Manor, located northeast of Dade City. Here, rental rates tend to be lower than in the city center, making it an attractive option for those on a tight budget.
Additionally, neighborhoods like Lacoochee provide affordable housing options, particularly if you’re a renter seeking cheaper accommodation. While undergoing development, Lacoochee offers a sense of community and accessibility to essential services. Exploring shared housing or renting rooms in private residences will also help reduce your living expenses here.
Websites like Craigslist or local Facebook groups often list room rentals or shared rooms, allowing you to connect with potential roommates and find cost-effective living arrangements in Dade City.
8. Fort Myers
Fort Myers, nestled on Florida’s Gulf Coast, offers options for affordable living without compromising on modern-day comforts. If you’re after budget-friendly accommodations, several areas stand out. North Fort Myers has lower rental rates than its southern counterpart. Plus, its suburban feel appeals to many, with ample amenities and proximity to Fort Myers proper.
Another budget-friendly option is the Colonial Boulevard area. While still convenient to the city center, rent prices here tend to be cheaper, making it an attractive choice if you’re on a tight budget. Additionally, neighborhoods like East Dunbar provide affordable housing options, particularly for renters. Although undergoing revitalization efforts, it offers a sense of community and accessibility to essential services.
Top tip – Considering shared housing or renting a room can significantly reduce costs for single people or couples looking for cheaper alternatives.
Or why not, look into mobile home parks or apartment complexes with lower rents here? These often offer amenities like swimming pools, laundry facilities, and recreational areas, which means that you’ll get to enjoy a nice living experience without breaking the bank.
In short, Fort Myers offers various options for affordable living, from suburban neighborhoods like North Fort Myers to areas along Colonial Boulevard and East Dunbar. Exploring shared housing, mobile home parks, or budget apartment complexes can help you find cost-effective accommodations here. Which will allow you to enjoy all that this vibrant city offers without putting you in financial strain.
Thanks for Reading!
While you’re here, why not check out my other North American blog posts – some of my favorites include:
The Best Day Trips from San Francisco
15 Best Things to Do in Seattle
Moving to New York – these are the best towns to visit from your new home!
Last Updated on February 20, 2025 by snaphappytravel