Are you on the hunt for cheap places to live in Florida? Well, you’re in luck! With 10 cities and towns offering surprisingly affordable living options, there is bound to be a place that fits both your lifestyle and pocketbook. In this blog post, we will share our top picks of the most budget-friendly locations throughout Florida that are still beautiful, safe and full of culture
1. Jacksonville - $260,000
One city that comes to mind is Jacksonville, where you can own a home for just $260,000. This may sound like a lot, but considering the notoriously high prices of Florida real estate, it's a steal. Plus, the cost of living in Jacksonville is relatively low, allowing you to live comfortably on around $1,900 per month.
2. Cape Coral - $290,700
With a median home price of just $290,700, this coastal city offers a surprisingly affordable option for those seeking to escape the high cost of living in Florida. While a one-bedroom apartment may cost around $1,300, the overall cost of living in Cape Coral is still significantly lower than many cities in Florida.
3. Gainesville - $210,000
Gainesville, located in the northern part of the state, offers an average one-bedroom apartment at $1,100 per month and an average home price of $210,000. While it may not be a coastal city, Gainesville boasts natural beauty and a small-town charm that many desire. Residents can enjoy hiking in the Sierra Nevada Mountains or exploring nearby national parks.
4. Dade City - $179,500
With a median home price of just $179,500, it's one of the cheapest places to live in Florida. Even renting is relatively affordable, with an average rent of $1,372 for a one-bedroom apartment. Despite its low cost of living, Dade City still has plenty to offer, from charming downtown shops and eateries to beautiful parks and nature trails.
5. Dunedin - $340,000
With a median home price of just $340,000, Dunedin offers a budget-friendly option for those looking to settle in the Golden State. And one-bedroom apartments are equally affordable, with rent averaging around $1,100.
Located in close proximity to the beach and other outdoor recreational activities, Dunedin is the perfect spot for those wanting to enjoy all that Florida has to offer without breaking the bank.
6. Kissimmee - $265,000
Kissimmee, located in Central Florida, offers a budget-friendly alternative for those in search of a more affordable lifestyle. With a median home price of $265,000 and one-bedroom apartments averaging at $1,050 per month, Kissimmee provides ample opportunities for residents to live comfortably and within their means.
Plus, with its convenient location near major highways and attractions like Yosemite National Park, this city is an attractive option for those seeking to balance affordability with an exciting and enjoyable lifestyle.
7. Bartow - $240,000
With a median home price of $240,000, Bartow is an affordable option that is sure to please. Small families and solo adventurers alike will appreciate the availability of one-bedroom apartments for around $900 per month. Enjoy the small-town charm of Bartow, while also taking advantage of its close proximity to other hot spots like Tampa, Orlando, and Lakeland.
8. Homosassa Springs - $265,000
With a median home price of $265,000 and an average one-bedroom apartment rent of $975, this small town offers both affordability and a high quality of life. Located on the picturesque west coast of Florida, Homosassa Springs is known for its natural beauty and abundance of outdoor recreational activities.
9. Melbourne - $335,000
With a median home price of $335,000, Melbourne offers an excellent value for those looking to own property. For those renting, one-bedroom apartments can be found for around $1,300 per month.
But living in Melbourne isn't just about saving money – the town is also home to a vibrant community of artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs. From farmers markets to live music events, there's always something exciting happening in Melbourne.
10. Edgewater - $310,000
Edgewater is a hidden gem that offers a low cost of living while still being close to major cities like San Francisco and San Jose. With a median home price of $310,000, you can own a piece of Florida real estate without breaking the bank.
Additionally, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment is only $1,300 per month, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money on housing.
FAQs about Cheap Places To Live In Florida
Are there affordable cities in Florida with top-rated schools or universities?
Yes, there are several affordable cities in Florida with top-rated schools or universities. Some of these include Gainesville ($233,000 median home price), Sarasota ($237,500 median home price), and Fort Myers ($240,000 median home price). These cities all feature excellent elementary to high school systems and also offer access to some of the best universities in the country such as the University of Florida and Florida Gulf Coast University.
What cost of living factors are important in cheaper cities in Florida?
When looking for a cheaper city in Florida, it is important to consider the following cost of living factors: housing costs (median home price and average rent prices), food costs, transportation costs, health care costs, taxes, and quality of life.
What is the program to help pay utility bills in Florida?
LIHEAP, a program funded by the federal government, aids low-income families in Florida to pay their utility bills. The program provides a one-time financial assistance to those in need, based on household income and size. To apply for this program, you must contact your local Community Action Agency.
Conclusion
Thank you for taking the time to read our blog post on cheap places to live in Florida!
Florida is a diverse state that offers something for everyone, whether you're looking for a big city vibe or prefer the small-town charm. With its low cost of living and abundance of outdoor activities, Florida is an ideal destination for those seeking to live within their means while still enjoying the best that life has to offer. From Gainesville to Edgewater and all points in between, there's no shortage of affordable places to call home in this sunny state. Whatever your budget may be, you're sure to find a place that fits your needs and lifestyle in beautiful Florida.
