Florida, known for its sunshine and vibrant lifestyle, offers numerous affordable options for those looking to buy a home. Whether seeking a quiet coastal town or a bustling city with cultural amenities, Florida has something for everyone. It's no longer just about the views. The cost of living and housing costs, whether renting or buying, also significantly impact decision-making. In this article, we highlight the 10 cheapest cities to live in Florida that provide a balanced mix of low cost of living, reasonable home prices, good job markets, and quality of life amenities.
Criteria for Affordability
This list explores the best places to live in Florida, each offering a lower cost of living than the national average. This means median household incomes align with median home prices, making these locations financially accessible for many. With the added benefit of no state income tax, Florida provides appealing options for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality of life.
To determine the affordability of these Florida cities, several factors were considered:
- Cost of Living Index (COLI): Reflects the relative expenses for housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, and healthcare. The national average (NA) cost of living index is set at 100. Florida's overall cost of living is 103.1.
- Median Home Price: Provides insight into the real estate market and the affordability of purchasing a home. The national average home price is $495,100.
- Job Market: Identifies major employers in each city, indicating employment opportunities.
- Quality of Life: This measure assesses factors such as school ratings, healthcare options, recreational activities, and overall livability.
- Safety: Analyzes crime rates compared to the national average of 47.7, ensuring a secure living environment.
For a personalized calculation of cost of living expenses, you can use this cost of living calculator.
Top 10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Florida in 2024
1. Dade City
Dade City, located inland in Pasco County and just north of Tampa, is one of the most affordable cities in Florida. It combines small-town charm with proximity to major metropolitan areas like Tampa and Orlando. Known for its historic downtown and picturesque landscapes, Dade City offers a tranquil environment ideal for families and retirees alike.
- COLI: 98, 5% lower than the state average(SA), 2% lower than the national average (NA)
- Median Home Price: $266,300, 46% lower than the national average (NA)
- Job Market and Major Employers: Dade City's economy is primarily supported by agriculture, local businesses, and educational institutions such as Pasco-Hernando State College. Major employers include farms, nurseries, and small manufacturing enterprises.
- Quality of Life: Residents enjoy good schools, access to national parks like the Withlacoochee State Forest, museums, and community events. The area boasts excellent healthcare facilities and is within a short drive of urban amenities in Tampa and Orlando.
- Crime Rate: 25.2, 47% lower
2. Bartow
Bartow, situated in Polk County, offers a blend of small-town hospitality with modern amenities, making it attractive for families seeking a relaxed lifestyle, all at roughly 11% below the average cost of living in Florida.
- COLI: 91.6, 11% lower than SA, 8% lower than NA
- Median Home Price: $245,600, 50% lower than NA
- Job Market and Major Employers: Bartow's economy thrives on mining, agriculture, and government services. Major employers include phosphate mining companies, agricultural enterprises, and local government offices.
- Quality of Life: The city features historic landmarks like the Benjamin Franklin Holland House, state parks like Peace River Park, good schools, healthcare facilities, and a variety of recreational opportunities. Bartow hosts family-friendly events throughout the year.
- Crime Rate: 22.5, 53% lower
3. Melbourne
Melbourne, located on Florida's Space Coast in Brevard County, offers a blend of high-tech industries and coastal living. Its beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and strong community ties attract residents.
- COLI: 95.6, 7% lower than SA, 4% lower than NA
- Median Home Price: $348,100, 30% lower than NA
- Job Market and Major Employers: Melbourne's economy is driven by companies like Health First, Harris Corporation, and Northrop Grumman, leaders in the healthcare and aerospace industries.
- Quality of Life: Residents benefit from excellent healthcare facilities, an arts district, proximity to beaches, and diverse recreational options. Melbourne provides a balanced mix of urban amenities and suburban tranquility.
- Crime Rate: 24.7, 48% lower
4. Kissimmee
Kissimmee, located in Osceola County near Orlando, is renowned for its proximity to world-famous theme parks and recreational opportunities. It blends tourism with a family-friendly community atmosphere.
- COLI: 101.1, 2% lower than SA, 1% higher than NA
- Median Home Price: $346,300, 30% lower than NA
- Job Market and Major Employers: Kissimmee's economy revolves around tourism (Disney World, Universal Studios) and healthcare services, catering to the needs of residents and millions of visitors annually.
- Quality of Life: The city offers good schools, access to lake beaches, a vibrant restaurant scene, and numerous outdoor activities like kayaking and Gatorland. Kissimmee provides a lively environment with cultural diversity and entertainment options.
- Crime Rate: 26.4, 45% lower
5. Jacksonville
Jacksonville, the largest city in Florida, offers diverse neighborhoods and amenities. It combines urban sophistication with natural beauty and outdoor recreation.
- COLI: 95.7, 7% lower than SA, 4% lower than NA
- Median Home Price: $280,200, 43% lower than NA
- Job Market and Major Employers: Jacksonville's economy is diverse, with major employers including CSX Corporation, Fidelity National Financial, and numerous healthcare institutions. The city is known for its port facilities and logistics industry.
- Quality of Life: Residents enjoy a plethora of outdoor activities, excellent schools, healthcare options, and cultural attractions like the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. Jacksonville provides metropolitan amenities while maintaining a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
- Crime Rate: 27.9, 42% lower
6. Gainesville
Gainesville, home to the University of Florida and Santa Fe College, offers a dynamic blend of educational opportunities, natural beauty, and cultural amenities.
- COLI: 92.2, 11% lower than SA, 8% lower than NA
- Median Home Price: $271,700, 45% lower than NA
- Job Market and Major Employers: Gainesville's economy is anchored by the University of Florida, Santa Fe College, and healthcare providers. The city also supports a robust arts scene and local businesses.
- Quality of Life: Residents benefit from excellent educational facilities, healthcare services, parks, and cultural attractions like the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention. Gainesville offers a welcoming community with diverse recreational options.
- Crime Rate: 23.8, 50% lower
7. Dunedin
Dunedin, located in Pinellas County, is celebrated for its Scottish heritage and quaint downtown area. It offers a blend of historic charm, recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community.
- COLI: 102.8, 1% lower than SA, 3% higher than NA)
- Median Home Price: $410,500, 17% lower than NA
- Job Market and Major Employers: Dunedin's economy is supported by local businesses, tourism, and healthcare services. Major employers include retail establishments, hospitality venues, and medical facilities.
- Quality of Life: Dunedin boasts excellent schools, low crime rates, proximity to Gulf Coast beaches, and annual events like the Scottish Highland Games. It provides a safe and family-friendly environment.
- Crime Rate: 21.4, 55% lower
8. Cape Coral
Cape Coral, known as the "Waterfront Wonderland," is located in the southwestern part of the state and is renowned for its extensive canal system, which is perfect for boating enthusiasts. It offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with suburban comforts. With a crime rate nearly 60% lower than the national average, it's also one of the safest places to live in Florida.
- COLI: 104.2, 1% higher than SA, 4% higher than NA
- Median Home Price: $377,400, 24% lower than NA
- Job Market and Major Employers: Cape Coral's economy revolves around healthcare services, retail establishments, and tourism-related activities. Major employers include Lee Health and local businesses.
- Quality of Life: Residents enjoy a safe environment, access to numerous canals and waterways, good healthcare facilities, and proximity to Gulf Coast beaches. Cape Coral provides a serene retreat with abundant recreational opportunities.
- Crime Rate: 20.3, 57% lower
9. Titusville
Titusville, situated in Brevard County on Florida's Space Coast, is strongly connected to the aerospace industry and space exploration. It blends historical significance, natural beauty, and modern amenities.
- COLI: 95.6, 7% lower than SA, 4% lower than NA
- Median Home Price: $267,400, 46% lower than NA
- Job Market and Major Employers: Titusville's economy is driven by NASA's Kennedy Space Center, SpaceX, and local businesses. The city is ideal for those passionate about space exploration and technology.
- Quality of Life: Residents benefit from excellent educational facilities, healthcare services, proximity to beaches, and numerous outdoor activities. Titusville provides a unique community atmosphere with a focus on innovation and exploration.
- Crime Rate: 23.8, 50% lower
10. Winter Haven
Winter Haven, known for its chain of lakes and family-friendly attractions, including LEGOLAND Florida Resort, offers a blend of recreational opportunities and suburban comforts.
- COLI: 91.6, 11% lower than SA, 8% lower than NA
- Median Home Price: $281,200, 43% lower than NA
- Job Market and Major Employers: Winter Haven's economy is supported by LEGOLAND Florida Resort, healthcare services, retail establishments, and local businesses catering to tourism and residential needs.
- Quality of Life: The city boasts numerous lakes for boating and hiking, a vibrant community spirit, good schools, and healthcare facilities. Winter Haven provides a charming atmosphere ideal for families and retirees.
- Crime Rate: 22.1, 54% lower
Comparison of Top 10 Places
Here's a summary table comparing the key factors:
| City |
COLI |
Median Home Price |
Crime Rate |
| Dade City |
98 |
$266,300, ↓ 46% NA |
25.2, ↓ 47% NA |
| Bartow |
91.6 |
$245,600, ↓ 50% NA |
22.5, ↓ 53% NA |
| Melbourne |
95.6 |
$348,100, ↓ 30% NA |
24.7, ↓ 48% NA |
| Kissimmee |
101.1 |
$346,300, ↓ 30% NA |
26.4, ↓ 45% NA |
| Jacksonville |
95.7 |
$280,200, ↓ 43% NA |
27.9, ↓ 42% NA |
| Gainesville |
92.2 |
$271,700, ↓ 45% NA |
23.8, ↓ 50% NA |
| Dunedin |
102.8 |
$410,500, ↓ 17% NA |
21.4, ↓ 55% NA |
| Cape Coral |
104.2 |
$377,400, ↓ 24% NA |
20.3, ↓ 57% NA |
| Titusville |
95.6 |
$267,400, ↓ 46% NA |
23.8, ↓ 50% NA |
| Winter Haven |
91.6 |
$281,200, ↓ 43% NA |
22.1, ↓ 54% NA |
Legend
- COLI: Cost of Living Index
- NA: National Average
Find An Affordable House with Ebenezer Mortgage Solutions
Living in the Sunshine State can be a dream come true with its warm climate, beautiful landscapes, and affordability. Each of these affordable cities in Florida provides unique advantages, whether you're raising a family, starting a career, or enjoying retirement.
At Ebenezer Mortgage Solutions, our expertise in Florida's real estate market and personalized financial guidance ensures you secure a piece of the Florida dream that perfectly fits your lifestyle and budget. With access to an extensive network of lenders, we can match you with the best mortgage options, making your transition to affordable living seamless and stress-free.
For more information on financing your move to the best affordable places to live in Florida, contact Ebenezer Mortgage Solutions by calling (813) 284 - 4027 or visit www.ebenezermortgage.com.
