If you are considering a move to the Sunshine State, chances are you have heard about prices increasing in most areas. Florida was once considered a very affordable place to live, but that is slowly changing.
If you have your heart set on moving to Florida but need something a little more affordable, these 16 cities would be the perfect place to start. We included a variety of options with amenities like waterfront living and close proximity to theme parks and attractions.
Ocala
First on the list is Ocala. This town is located in the central Florida area and is known for its affordability and housing options. If you are a fan of horses, you’ll find yourself in horse country in Ocala. In addition, there are natural springs such as Silver Springs State Park and the Ocala National Forest.
- Average rent cost: $1,100/month
- Average home cost: $225,000
- Average annual income: $48,978
Gainesville
Gainsville has a population of around 140,000 and a median household income of $40,937. Most famously, Gainesville is home to the prestigious University of Florida and Santa Fe College. This vibrant college town has a median home price of $282,000. Thanks to its affordability and top-rated universities, Gainesville is known for its mix of young college students and retirees.
In addition to the University of Florida and Santa Fe College, Gainesville is also home to the Florida Museum of Natural History and the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens.
- Average rent cost: $1,200/month
- Average home cost: $282,000
- Average annual income: $40,937
Pine Hills
Pine Hills, Florida, is just a short distance from Orlando. Its median home price is just shy of $300,000, making it a viable option for both families and singles who want to live in close proximity to Florida’s famous theme parks.
Note that you won’t always have to travel from Pine Hills to find amenities and activities. Barnett Park and the Econlockhatchee River are great places to spend some time outdoors without traveling far from home.
- Average rent cost: $1,636/month
- Average home cost: $300,000
- Average annual income: $38,000
Homosassa Springs
If you are looking for the cheapest place to live in Florida that offers the best of rural living, Homosassa Springs could be a good place to look. Housing and rental prices will sit comfortably below the national average in Homosassa Springs, with the median home sale price coming in at just $215,000.
In addition to fair pricing, Homosassa Springs offers unique attractions, such as snorkeling with manatees or wandering through the enchanting Wildlife State Park.
- Average rent cost: $2,000/month
- Average home cost: $215,000
- Average annual income: $42,837
Deltona
Lake Monroe brings thousands of people to the Deltona area every year. Overall, it’s one of the more affordable cities that also offers lakeside tranquility and a variety of housing options. Deltona’s average home cost is $319,000–which falls on the higher end of the spectrum–but rest assured, there are some low-income housing programs that open the door for many people.
Deltona is a planned residential community. With attractions like Lyonia Preserve, residents are never far from outdoor adventures. The best way to describe Deltona may be, “affordable living with a view.”
- Average rent cost: $1,400/month
- Average home cost: $319,000
- Average annual income: $62,768
Port Charlotte
Port Charlotte is one of the most affordable cities for waterfront living. You won’t find many affordable waterfront properties in Florida, but Port Charlotte has some options. With a median home price of $315,000, you can claim your piece of the salt life without sacrificing affordability.
Life in Port Charlotte is a treat when you spend it in must-visit destinations like Port Charlotte Beach Park, Charlotte Sports Park, and Fisherman’s Village.
- Average rent cost: $1,800/month
- Average home cost: $315,000
- Average annual income: $52,672
Jacksonville
Jacksonville is a great choice if you want a true taste of city life (within steps of the beach). The city’s housing costs are a refreshing departure from the steep prices in other major Florida cities. With a wide array of attractions, Jacksonville offers a fulfilling lifestyle that’s also easy on the wallet. In Jacksonville, the average home cost is $250,000.
Here, you’ll have easy access to the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Riverside Arts Market, the Florida Theatre, and Friendship Fountain. Jacksonville also offers many great restaurants and a strong job market.
- Average rent cost: $1,400/month
- Average home cost: $250,000
- Average annual income: $49,463
Dade City
Dade City is a charming town in Central Florida, not all that far from Tampa. With home prices and rental rates falling below the national average, Dade City is ideal for relocators prioritizing affordable living. (It’s also a great location for those who love history, museums, and national parks).
While Dade City is known for its simplicity and small-town culture, there are still plenty of things to keep you busy. On the weekends, visit the Giraffe Ranch, the Dade City Heritage and Cultural Museum, and Withlacoochee River Park.
- Average rent cost: $1,200/month
- Average home cost: $396,100
- Average annual income: $41,197
Palm Bay
Palm Bay, situated on Florida’s east coast, provides a city-like atmosphere without the sky-high price tag. With a median home price of $345,250, its affordability doesn’t come at the cost of amenities or the beautiful beaches that Florida is known for.
Residents love the Turkey Creek Sanctuary and Castaway Point Park. In addition, Palm Bay residents frequent the Palm Bay Aquatic Center and Andretti Thrill Park for an afternoon of family fun.
- Average rent cost: $1,445/month
- Average home cost: $345,250
- Average annual income: $45,194
Daytona Beach
Daytona is one of the most easily recognized destinations on this list. Aside from the surprisingly fair median home value of $375,917, Daytona is most well-known for attractions like the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and the Daytona 500.
The city’s 23 miles of white sand beaches offer residents a variety of outdoor activities, from fishing to sunbathing, all at a cost that’s much more affordable than other spots along the East Coast of Florida, like Fort Lauderdale or Miami. The recent addition of the Daytona Aquarium and Rainforest Adventure adds another layer of attraction and appeal.
- Average rent cost: $1,300/month
- Average home cost: $375,917
- Average annual income: $38,259
Kissimmee
Kissimmee offers affordable housing with a median home price of $345,000. Located just 15 minutes south of Orlando, Kissimmee is a stone’s throw away from world-renowned theme parks like Universal Studios.
Residents of Kissimmee enjoy easy access to major attractions and a variety of local activities, from airboat tours to regional parks. Kissimmee is also home to its own fun attractions, like Old Town and Gatorland.
- Average rent cost: $1,400/month
- Average home cost: $345,000
- Average annual income: $41,746
Cape Coral
Cape Coral, often referred to as the ‘Waterfront Wonderland,’ is a budget-friendly area on Florida’s Gulf Coast. It offers great fishing, a calm and laid-back lifestyle, and canals lined with homes that overlook the water.
If you are a nature person, the canals of Cape Coral are teeming with marine life, including dolphins and manatees. The Cape Coral Yacht Club further enhances the city’s allure, featuring a public beach, community pool, and a restaurant where you can partake in the ‘Hook and Cook’ experience.
- Average rent cost: $1,600/month
- Average home cost: $350,000
- Average annual income: $53,653
Edgewater
Edgewater is recognized as one of the cheapest places to move in the entire state. In fact, housing costs in Edgewater are 13.2% less than the national average.
The town of Edgewater takes safety seriously. It’s known to be one of the safest spots in the state. Edgewater is nestled along the Indian River. Besides the waterfront views and plenty of opportunities for water recreation, you’ll be close to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
- Average rent cost: $1,200
- Average home cost: $275,000
- Average annual income: $50,000
Summary
Moving to Florida means affordable home prices and no state income taxes. To cut down living costs even further, consider downsizing as part of the move. When downsizing, it’s likely you’ll need to invest in a storage unit (now that you have less room for all of your same belongings). For affordable self-storage options that are available in all 50 states. Including Florida, check out Neighbor, a peer-to-peer storage marketplace that offers storage at prices 30-50% cheaper than traditional options.
After you find your home in Florida, sign up to become a Neighbor host to generate passive income. Some Neighbor hosts make up to $294 per hour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What City in Florida Has the Lowest Cost of Living?
Ocala is often considered the city with the lowest cost of living in Florida.
What Is the Most Affordable & Safe City in Florida?
Edgewater is known to be both affordable and safe. The average home cost is $275,000.
Where Is the Cheapest Rent in Florida?
The cheapest rent in Florida is typically found in Homosassa Springs.
What Is the Cheapest County in Florida to Live In?
Levy County is the cheapest county in Florida to live in.
