The Most Affordable Places To Live In Florida Are Easy To Find
Today, let’s dive into the cheapest places to live in Florida.
To keep your cost of living expenses in line with your budget. And for achieving financial independence as soon as you can.
So, whether you are thinking about moving to Florida.
Or, you already live in “The Sunshine State”. But want to relocate to save money.
You have found the right place. Because I’m going to outline the best cheap places in Florida to live.
Then you can make the right decision. For your finances. And more importantly, your life.
No further delays. Because it’s time to get started…
Disclosure: At no cost to you, I may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
Cheapest Places To Live In Florida
Here it is. My 7 choices for the most inexpensive places to live in Florida:
- Quincy
- Fort Meade
- Live Oak
- Bartow
- Edgewater
- Palm Bay
- Gainesville
Allow me to use the above list as an outline. For the upcoming sections of this article about places to live in Florida on the cheap.
And, I will answer three important questions. For each of these most affordable towns in Florida that made the list.
They are…
- What does it cost to live there?
- Where is the town located in Florida?
- What is living in this Florida city like?
And before I wrap up. I will share some additional facts about Florida living. That adds to the economic opportunity the state offers.
So, that’s my agenda. Let’s move forward with it.
But first, a little additional information. For you to consider.
Why Are These the Most Affordable Places In Florida?
As I look at the towns and cities in Florida. I’m going to focus mainly on housing costs.
First of all, median home values. Secondly, apartment rents.
Because for most people. Their housing expenses make up the largest part of their budget.
And by choosing a place in Florida to live. You are getting a fair starting point.
But, what do I mean by fair?
Well specifically, Florida’s median home prices and average apartment rents are about the same as the averages for the rest of the United States.
Not super cheap. Like living in Arkansas, for example. But also not outrageously expensive.
So, to minimize living costs. No matter where you are moving from.
Find an area in Florida with affordable housing. It is an important key to money success.
Now, onto the list of most affordable cities to live in Florida.
1. Quincy
It should not come as a big surprise. Our first inexpensive place is a small town.
Because Quincy may be one of the cheapest places to live in Florida.
What Does It Cost To Live in Quincy, Florida?
Median home prices: 69% less than the state’s median home price.
Average 2 bedroom apartment rent: 26% less than the state’s median rental value.
Where is Quincy, Florida Located?
Quincy is located in the Northeast part of Florida. And it is a short distance from Tallahassee. And across the border from another Southern state, Georgia.
The town is located in what is known as the Florida Panhandle. Furthermore, the Panhandle may be the cheapest part of Florida to live in.
The panhandle is located right below the state of Alabama. And, as I just mentioned, Georgia too.
What Is Living In Quincy Florida Like?
Quincy is a small town for sure. Checking in with the lowest population of all of the Florida low-cost locations on today’s list.
It is a family-friendly, peaceful town. But sometimes lacking in job opportunities and economic growth. In case those things are important to you.
But, proximity to Tallahassee is a benefit.
It provides access to shopping, urban amenities, and work options. That other rural living environments in Florida do not possess.
2. Fort Meade
Here is another town of modest size. Ranking as one of the cheap places to live in Florida.
I’m talking about Fort Meade. The oldest city in Polk County, Florida.
What Does It Cost To Live in Fort Meade, Florida?
Median home prices: 58% less. Versus Florida as a whole.
Average 2 bedroom apartment rent: 30% less when compared to the entire state of Florida.
Where is Fort Meade, Florida Located?
The town is located inland. Away from the coasts.
It is in central Florida. And due West of the Gulf Coast City of St. Petersburg.
What Is Living In Fort Meade, Florida Like?
If you like quiet and peaceful small towns. And close-knit communities. You may enjoy living here.
On the other hand, the town has little to offer in the way of shopping. Or, economic opportunity.
Also, it is a fairly long drive to visit Tampa or St. Petersburg. Where traffic can be heavy.
3. Live Oak
So far we have stuck with towns having populations of less than 10,000 residents. And our next place, Live Oak, is no different.
Certainly, Live Oak is one of the most inexpensive places to live in Florida.
What Does It Cost To Live in Live Oak, Florida?
Median home prices: The average home price is 46% below the entire state.
Average 2 bedroom apartment rent: Median monthly rent is 40% below the state rate.
Where is Live Oak, Florida Located?
Live Oak is located in north-central Florida. Not far from the Georgia border. And about halfway in between Tallahassee and Jacksonville.
If you want to spend some of that money you will save. By living in Live Oak.
Just hop in the car for a few hours. And you can be vacationing on Hilton Head Island. Off the South Carolina coast.
What Is Living In Live Oak Florida Like?
Live Oak is another town where you will need to make your entertainment. Or drive out of town to find it.
But living costs are low here. And the crime rate is not a problem. In what is a rural Florida setting.
4. Bartow
Let’s step up in size with the next most economical place to live in Florida. Since Bartow has a population greater than 20,000 residents.
What Does It Cost To Live in Bartow, Florida?
Median home prices: 41% below the state median.
Average 2 bedroom apartment rent: Can be had for 28% less than the rest of the state.
Where is Bartow, Florida Located?
Bartow is located inland. In central Florida, East of Tampa. Just a few miles north of Fort Meade.
What can you find in this mid-state inland area?
That’s an easy question. Because you can find the best cost of living in Florida.
What Is Living In Bartow, Florida Like?
Bartow has a little more to offer in the way of local businesses. Versus other small towns in the state.
Plus, there is a government presence. Since it is being the county seat of Polk County.
But, it’s still small-town living. And not exactly a hub for live entertainment options.
Stay with me now. Numbers 5, 6, and 7 on today’s list of affordable places to live in Florida get even better.
Because we are heading to the coast!
5. Edgewater
Next, we travel to another smallish town. Because Edgewater has a population of nearly 25,000.
But finally. We are near the water!
After all, Florida has many miles of coastline. Quite a few more than the great state of Texas. Which is also located on the Gulf of Mexico.
What Does It Cost To Live in Edgewater?
Median home prices: 26% less than the Florida state median.
Average 2 bedroom apartment rent: 6% below the state’s average rent price
Where is Edgewater Located?
The town of Edgewater is located on the central north Atlantic coast.
It is northeast of Orlando. And only 20 miles South of Daytona beach.
What Is Living In Edgewater Like?
Edgewater got its start as a tiny beach town. But has grown in more recent years.
As a result, it has become popular with snowbirds and retirees.
So, if you like living close to the ocean. Edgewater may be an affordable town in Florida that meets your needs.
6. Palm Bay
The next cheapest area in Florida to live in? It is the city of Palm Bay. And we are talking about living close to the Atlantic shoreline.
But this time we are going up in size. Since Palm Bay has a population greater than 100,000.
What Does It Cost To Live in Palm Bay, Florida?
Median home value: 25% below Florida’s median.
Average 2 bedroom apartment rent: 8% less than the state average.
Where is Palm Bay, Florida Located?
Palm Bay is located in Central Florida. On the Atlantic coast.
However, it’s not particularly close to any of the state’s top 5 major metropolitan areas.
What is Living In Palm Bay, Florida Like?
Palm Bay may be the hidden jewel of all the inexpensive places to live in Florida. Representing the best of all worlds.
It is big enough to offer entertainment, shopping, and other urban experiences. But still small enough to have a community feel about the town.
Finally, most residents speak very highly about living in Palm Bay.
7. Gainesville
Our list of affordable places to live in Florida wouldn’t be complete without a college town. So, we have the city of Gainesville.
It is one of the cheapest towns to live in Florida. Here’s why…
What Does It Cost To Live in Gainesville?
Median home prices: Single-family home prices are 23% less than the state median.
Average 2 bedroom apartment rent: 18% below Florida’s median rental rate.
Where is Gainesville, Florida Located?
Gainesville is inland. And located in north-central Florida.
What Is Living in Gainesville, Florida Like?
Gainesville is home to the University of Florida. With all the activities and cultural amenities that big universities have to offer.
The town has a population of over 100,000 residents. And has a larger city-suburban feel. But, maintains a hometown atmosphere.
Okay. That concludes my review of 7 of the cheapest places to live in Florida.
But, stay with me. I have more…
Cheapest Places To Live In Florida: Honorable Mentions
Because here are several honorable mentions that did not make my list of 7.
Cheapest Places To Live In Florida: Jacksonville
By population, Jacksonville is the largest city in the state. So if you are looking for a big city feel and the opportunity that comes with it. Then Jacksonville may be your place.
But even as a major metropolitan city. This area has below-average housing costs. Versus Florida as a whole.
So, Jacksonville is one of the most affordable cities in Florida. Even with its substantial population base of residents.
You can read a lot more about Jacksonville living. If you care to.
Otherwise, let’s move to the next honorable mention…
Cheapest Places To Live In Florida: Cape Coral
Located near the growing city of Fort Myers. In southwest Florida, we have Cape Coral
Housing costs here are on par with the rest of the state. But, it is one of the few less expensive places in South Florida. Located on the Gulf Coast.
Living in Cape Coral means you can enjoy beaches, parks, a growing economy, and a low crime rate.
So, Cape Coral may not be the cheapest place to live in Florida. But, it has a lot to offer.
Especially if you like a place with outdoor recreational opportunities. That living near the water affords.
Inexpensive Living In Ocala, Florida
Ocala is located in north-central Florida. Not far south from Gainesville.
You won’t have quick access to the beach or waterfront here. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
Especially when the median home value is about 35% less than the U.S. average.
The city has a small-town feel. With a community vibe. And has become a popular destination for retirees in recent years.
As an added bonus, you won’t have to worry much about hurricanes here. They usually weaken after hitting land. And before they get to Ocala.
So, that’s my top 7 list. Plus a couple of honorable mentions.
But I promised to give you some more insight. About the most affordable places in Florida.
Since the state is such a popular destination for snowbirds. Retirees. And anyone looking for the Florida lifestyle.
Let’s do that next…
Where To Find The Cheapest Areas To Live In Florida
In general, the cheapest area to live in Florida can be found in the Northern half of the state. You may have noted that all 7 towns and cities on today’s list were no further South than central Florida.
Furthermore, the smaller towns in rural locations. Have the lowest cost of living.
What is the tradeoff?
Well, in these small towns. There is not an abundance of things to do living here. Without driving long distances.
Or, very much economic opportunity. Finally, the unemployment rate tends to be higher.
Where You Won’t Find Cheap Places To Live In Florida
On the other hand, Southern Florida’s coastal cities are much more expensive.
That’s why you didn’t see a city like Miami or Fort Lauderdale. Located on the southeast coast listed.
The same goes for the southwest coast. Where the city of Naples and Marco Island are located.
Because housing costs are higher than average here. In these locations.
Cape Coral mentioned above. Might be a notable exception.
Other Facts That Make All Places In Florida Affordable
Here are a few other things that will keep your costs low. No matter where you choose to live in Florida.
Cheapest Places To Live In Florida: No State Income Taxes
Florida is one of only 9 states in the country. That does not have a state income tax.
So, make as much money as you like. And Florida won’t take any of it. By taxing your income!
Plus there is no need to file a state income tax return. It’s one less thing to do!
And if you pay a professional to file your taxes. The tax preparation fee should also be a little less when living in Florida.
Then, I suggest you manage your money with Personal Capital. It brings all of your expenses and investments together in one place online.
Best of all? Personal Capital is free to sign up and use.
Mortgages & Credit Checks For Cheap Florida Living
Here are some other suggestions. To keep your overall housing costs as low as possible.
First, if you need a mortgage for that new home in Florida, shop online for the best options.
Also, keep an eye on your credit score because having a strong credit rating is important.
Whether you are in search of the lowest mortgage rate. Or applying for a new apartment lease.
So, review your credit score for free using Credit Karma. Then work on getting your score in the best shape possible.
Cheapest Places To Live In Florida: Other Costs
By now, you know that today’s town-by-town review focused on housing costs.
Specifically, home prices and apartment rents. Since housing makes up the largest part of most people’s budgets.
But rest assured, other costs in Florida are reasonable. Things like groceries, utility bills, and gas for your car. They are nothing compared to a high-cost state like California.
Generally, they will run along the lines of the United States national averages. Or less. As long as you avoid some of the pricey cities in the Southern coastal regions of the state.
So, to emphasize. Look for the lowest housing costs. To find your cheapest part of Florida to live in. Then the rest of your budget should come together nicely.
But there’s more. Here are a couple of other money-saving tips. No matter where you choose to live in Florida.
Cheapest Places To Live In Florida: How To Save More Money!
Are you looking for ways to save money before or after your move to Florida? Then there are a couple of money-saving tips that work anywhere…
First of all, we save on all of our everyday online expenses. And do so through the cashback app Rakuten.
Rakuten is offering $10 cash for a limited time, just for signing up and making your first purchase.
Okay. That’s all of the Florida money tips I can come up with for you today. So, let’s wrap up with a summary.
Then you can decide. On your cheapest place to live in Florida. That is right for you.
Summary: 7 Cheap Places To Live In Florida Right Now
Here’s my best list of the cheapest parts of Florida to live:
- Quincy
- Fort Meade
- Live Oak
- Bartow
- Edgewater
- Palm Bay
- Gainesville
So, if you are looking for the lowest cost of living in Florida. These affordable cities in Florida may do the trick.
And don’t forget about the other things. That will make it less expensive in Florida compared to other warm places to live.
For example…
- No state income taxes
- Sticking to the Northern half of the state
- Considering smaller towns in rural areas.
Now you know about the cheapest areas to live in Florida. And some of the other ways you can save money living there.
So, good luck with your decision. No matter where you decide to live.
More Reading About Where To Live, Money, & Your Finances
If you liked reading about these best affordable places to live in Florida. Then here are some related articles you may enjoy…
- Article archives about where to live
- Pros and cons about each state
- Is Tennessee a good place to live?
Cheapest Places To Live In Florida: Best Money-Saving Resources
I mentioned several resources throughout the article. They are summarized here for your convenience:
- Check your credit for free with Credit Karma
- Get cash back on your online purchases with Rakuten
- Manage all your money with Personal Capital
Author Bio: Tom Scott founded the consulting and coaching firm Dividends Diversify, LLC. He leverages his expertise and decades of experience in goal setting, relocation assistance, and investing for long-term wealth to help clients reach their full potential.
References For The Cheapest Places To Live In Florida
