Florida, known for its sunshine, beaches, and vibrant culture, is sometimes associated with high living costs, particularly in prominent cities such as Miami and Orlando. However, there are numerous lesser-known cities and villages where the cost of living is shockingly low, making them ideal for anyone wishing to live the Florida dream without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet retirement neighborhood, a family-friendly community, or a low-cost place to start over, Florida has plenty of possibilities. In this list, we look at seven of the cheapest locations to live in Florida, each with its unique blend of affordability, facilities, and Floridian character.
From lovely rural villages to cities with plentiful work options, these destinations demonstrate that you may live well in Florida without jeopardizing your financial security. Discover where you can stretch your dollar while enjoying the everlasting summer feelings.
1. Bartow
The cheapest place to live in Florida is Bartow, which is located in central Florida, roughly 50 miles between Orlando and Tampa. The median price of a property in Bartow is approximately $259,000. A one-bedroom apartment in Bartow costs around $1,050, which is much lower than the national and Florida averages.
The majority of residents in Bartow own their houses, and the city has a flourishing job market due to its closeness to larger cities. Bartow is a calm setting in Polk County that is easily accessible. If you work outside of Bartow, you can easily commute.
There are plenty of fun things to see and do in Bartow. It has several historical sites with stunning architecture for individuals who value beauty. It’s also close to state parks, theme parks, and museums, making it ideal for a family day. Bartow provides high-quality living for its residents.
2. Homosassa Springs
Homosassa Springs is a town immediately north of Tampa Bay. It’s one of the more rural options on this list, but it’s still a wonderful and reasonable area to live for individuals who value some privacy in their lives.
The median cost of a home in Homosassa Springs is around $269,000. A one-bedroom apartment costs around $1,125, which is significantly cheaper than the national average. It’s an economical area to live.
Homosassa Springs is one of the most affordable areas to reside in Florida due to its proximity to neighboring towns and tranquil atmosphere.
Homosassa Springs offers a variety of recreational opportunities. You may snorkel with beautiful manatees or visit Weeki Wachee Springs State Park for a world-famous mermaid performance. It’s a great site that relies on tourists.
3. Jacksonville
Jacksonville is the cheapest big city to reside in Florida. It is also Florida’s largest city and one of the largest in the United States in terms of area. Jacksonville is located at the top of the state, on the Florida-Georgia border. However, unlike most other major cities, Jacksonville is one of the most affordable places to live if you enjoy Florida.
The median cost of a home in Jacksonville is approximately $293,000, which is significantly lower than the national average. A one-bedroom apartment costs the typical person roughly $1,140. Prices here are likely to be lower than in most other parts of the United States. You may live comfortably in Jacksonville for roughly $1,950 per month, making it Florida’s cheapest city.
Jacksonville has a low unemployment rate and a large selection of housing options, making the job search relatively uncomplicated. It is close to other major cities in case you need to commute for employment. It boasts one of the most extensive total areas of any city in the United States.
In Jacksonville, you can relax at the beach or see a movie. It is a family-friendly city with a zoo, several museums, and even a state park. Jacksonville is inexpensive and full of everything you might want. You can hang out in the city or on the outskirts beside the beach. If you’re thinking about moving to Jacksonville, check out our research on the safest neighborhoods.
4. Edgewater
The last stop is Edgewater, which is located on Florida’s eastern shore. It’s near Daytona Beach and Cape Canaveral. Edgewater is a lovely town that also happens to be one of the most affordable locations to live in Florida.
The median property price in Edgewater is around $305,000. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Edgewater would cost you around $1,240.
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Edgewater is an ideal place for commuting to work. It has a low violent crime rate and numerous job options for individuals seeking employment. It also provides great public transportation for individuals who require assistance going to and from places.
Edgewater offers a variety of activities for both singles and families with children. Orlando is only an hour away, and you will be quite close to the beach. Edgewater is among some of Florida’s top campsites for added excitement.
5. Dunedin
Dunedin is one of Florida’s most cheap locations to live. Those looking for a relaxed lifestyle will like the charming atmosphere that this city provides for its residents. It boasts outstanding schools and a low crime rate that every family will appreciate.
The median cost of a home in Dunedin is currently at $349,000, although the market is continuously shifting. A one-bedroom unit in Dunedin costs around $1,200.
This municipality provides good transportation and utility expenses. Almost everything here is lower than the Florida average, making it one of the most affordable areas to live in the state.
6. Kissimmee
Kissimmee is another of Florida’s cheapest locations to live, and it’s close to the state’s theme park core, with Universal Studios and Disneyworld nearby. You may enjoy living near Orlando’s attractions without having to deal with everyday traffic.
The median price of a property in Kissimmee is $363,000. A one-bedroom apartment here costs around $1,250, which is reasonable given its closeness to major sites. If you have to work in the city, Kissimmee is a good area to reside for commute purposes. It’s a mix of affordability and value.
There is plenty to do in Kissimmee. You can drive to Orlando’s attractions, but you may also have fun right here in town. It’s close to the beach, and there are plenty of excellent places to eat and spend the night out with friends or family.
7. Melbourne
Melbourne is located on the Atlantic coast, near Cape Canaveral. It features a solid mix of annual tourists and year-round residents. It has a predominantly senior population, but younger people have moved there throughout the years.
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The median cost of a property in Melbourne is around $375,000. You should anticipate paying around $1,360, which is affordable for Florida. Melbourne has both younger and older areas, so you can connect with people your age in numerous settings. It’s one of Florida’s most flexible spots, and it’s becoming increasingly popular.
There are many things to do in Melbourne. You can go to the zoo, have fun at a theme park, or take a kayak excursion on the ocean. If you choose to live in Melbourne, you’ll never be bored.
Conclusion
Exploring Florida’s different areas offers some affordable places to live. From peaceful communities like Bartow and Homosassa Springs to bustling cities like Jacksonville and Kissimmee, Florida has a variety of low-cost options, each with its distinct charm and abundance of amenities.
