Thinking about moving to Florida? With white sand beaches, popular spots like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, and a laid-back lifestyle, there’s plenty to love about living in the Sunshine State. Though Florida’s real estate market can be pricey—particularly in popular tourist destinations like Miami and West Palm Beach—there are still plenty of budget-friendly areas to settle down. Check out these eight most affordable places to live in Florida!
Daytona Beach
- Population: 68,711
- Home Price: $164,400 median purchase price; $979 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 4% of Florida cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.5%
- Distance From Beach: 1.7 miles (World’s Most Famous Beach)
Best known as the “World’s Most Famous Beach,” Daytona Beach is a budget-friendly beach vacation spot—but this affordable coastal city in Florida is also a fantastic place to live! In addition to being a top city for retirees, Daytona Beach has plenty to offer families and young professionals too, with the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and beautiful beaches appealing to residents of all ages. Additionally, this Florida beach town is home to colleges like Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, as well as fun family-friendly Florida attractions like Tiger Bay State Forest and the Daytona International Speedway—home of the iconic Daytona 500. Frequent travelers can get out of town easily via the Daytona Beach International Airport, and golf enthusiasts can find many places to tee off, including the Daytona Beach Golf Club and LPGA International.
Things to Do in Daytona Beach
See open-air concerts from major artists like Blake Shelton and Huey Lewis & the News during the Sounds of Summer Concert Series at the Daytona Beach Bandshell. Spend a day swimming in the waterpark or riding the go karts and bumper cars in the Fun Park at Daytona Lagoon. Marvel at various aquatic species, rainforest animals, and reptiles at Daytona Aquarium and Rainforest Adventure. Explore exhibits like Expedition: Dinosaur, Bugs Outside the Box: Discover the Art Within the Sciences, or It’s a Ship Show: Florida’s Maritime Canvas at the Museum of Arts & Sciences. Chow down the Cuban Sandwich, Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, or Shrimp Po Boy from Fraze’s Scratch Cookin’. Grab Chinese takeout in Daytona Beach like Vegetarian Springrolls, Sha Cha Beef, or Pork Egg Foo Young at Leanh’s Chinese Restaurant. Taste elevated Honduran entrees like Lobster Machuca, Catracho, or Thin Steak from Chucherias Restaurant. Or order Buffalo Wings, the Veggie Plate, or Meatloaf from Southern comfort restaurant Soul Foods.
Gainesville
- Population: 133,611
- Home Price: $179,500 median purchase price; $965 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 27% of Florida cities
- Unemployment Rate: 2.9%
- Distance From Beach: 70.8 miles (Crescent Beach)
Located west of St Augustine and Palm Coast, Gainesville offers residents big-city amenities with small-town prices. Known for its lively college town atmosphere, friendly neighborhoods, great healthcare, and lush nature spaces, Gainesville is one of the best places to live in Florida for young adults and families alike. Outdoor enthusiasts can look forward to hiking trips or relaxing at parks, or you can spend time visiting a variety of museums. On top of that, residents don’t have to travel far to receive quality education, since both the University of Florida and Santa Fe College are located within the city. Gainesville is also one of the best places to retire in Florida, thanks to low housing costs and amazing healthcare facilities like UF Health Shands Hospital and HCA Florida North Florida Hospital.
Things to Do in Gainesville
Cheer on the Florida Gators (FBS) as they score touchdowns at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, also known as “The Swamp.” Looking for Gainesville date ideas? See 24 different plant collections—featuring bamboo, herbs, azaleas, and more—during a guided walking tour or while exploring on your own at the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens. Bring your kids to learn about Earth’s history, observe butterflies and birds, and play in interactive exhibits at Florida Museum of Natural History—or browse the permanent collections of Asian, African, and Contemporary art at the Harn Museum of Art. Enjoy live performances like Shrek the Musical, Romeo + Juliet, and Clue at one of the oldest community theaters in Florida, the Gainesville Community Playhouse. Wake up with the Smoked Mexican Mocha, Rose Cardamom, or Drip Coffee at Wyatt’s Coffee in Downtown Gainesville. Try classic dishes like Camarones a la Diabla, Mojarra Frita, or Huarache at La Tienda, serving up some of the best Mexican food in Gainesville. Munch on Mediterranean-inspired fare like Toasted Panna-Rustica, Plantain & Macadamia-Encrusted Crab Cakes, and Blue Mussels at Paramount Grill. Or grab an outdoor seat and order the Artichoke Caesar Salad, Brisket Sandwich, and Fried Beets at Public & General Restaurant.
[sc name=”Find Your Store”]Jacksonville
- Population: 902,488
- Home Price: $187,700 median purchase price; $1,089 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 22% of Florida cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.5%
- Distance From Beach: 22.5 miles (Jacksonville Beach)
The largest city in Florida by population is Jacksonville, which sits at the northeastern border of the Sunshine State. The city offers many employment opportunities for young professionals, with major companies like Fidelity National Financial and CSX Corporation located in Jacksonville. Additionally, major roads like I-95, I-295, and I-10 provide easy commutes for work, and Jacksonville International Airport is handy for traveling longer distances. With a plethora of outdoor and water activities, a vibrant restaurant and craft beer scene, museums, art galleries, and more, Jacksonville has something to offer everyone. And as one of the most affordable places to live in Florida, residents can also find cost-effective housing in family-friendly Jax neighborhoods boasting historical Colonial, Greek Revival, and Queen Anne home styles.
Things to Do in Jacksonville
Go surfing, play beach volleyball, or relax on the beach at one of the best vacation spots in Florida, Jacksonville Beach. Explore the beauty of the salt marshes and learn about local historical events at Kingsley Plantation and Fort Caroline National Memorial in the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve. Admire a variety of plant life, see animals like manatees and tigers, and spot ornate sculptures during a visit to the Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Browse European and American art dating back to 2100 B.C. or appreciate the lush architecture and landscaping in the Cummer Gardens at the Cummer Museum. Indulge in Spanish-Romani fare like Spanish Pork Mojo skewers, Risotto, and Pan-Fried Whitefish at 13 Gypsies. Grab unique, handcrafted sub sandwiches like The Shane, Jack Del Rio, or The FAMOUS Peruvian Sub from Angie’s Subs. Hunting for the best sushi in Jacksonville? Sample the Kelmon Roll, Fancy Q Roll, or Jax Roll at Sushi Bear Sushi & Grill. Or relax by Neptune Beach while enjoying a Beach Burger or Boom Boom Shrimp Tacos paired with an Ocean Cucumber mixed drink at Lemon Bar & Grille.
Kissimmee
- Population: 72,410
- Home Price: $201,300 median purchase price; $1,177 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 28% of Florida cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.8%
- Distance From Beach: 60.1 miles (Cocoa Beach)
Situated just 30 minutes from Orlando, Kissimmee is known as the “Vacation Home Capital of the World” and the central hub for larger-than-life themed attractions like Walt Disney World, Legoland, and Universal Studios. But Kissimmee isn’t just a great place to visit—as one of the most affordable cities in Florida, Kissimmee boasts a lower cost of living than nearby Orlando while providing easy access to the same big-city amenities. And due to Kissimmee’s pristine lake beaches, unique restaurants, and lush green golf courses, it’s also one of the best cities to live in Florida. On top of that, with major roads like Florida’s Turnpike—as well as Kissimmee Gateway Airport and easy access to Orlando International Airport—it’s easy for residents to travel for business or pleasure.
Things to Do in Kissimmee
Hop on thrilling rides like the Hurricane, Skycoaster, and Headrush 360 at Fun Spot Kissimmee. Explore waterside trails, go paddling or fishing, or enjoy bird-watching at Shingle Creek Regional Park—located at the “Northernmost Headwaters of the Florida Everglades.” Learn how people in this area lived in the 1800s and embark on a scavenger hunt at Osceola County Welcome Center & History Museum. Watch car shows, ride the Ferris Wheel or Paratrooper, or get some retail therapy at gift shops and boutiques in Old Town Kissimmee. Dig in to Traditional Gyros, a Gyro Bowl, or Hotdog at The Downtown Deli. Order delicious Venezuelan dishes like Sopa De Carne, Cachapa with Picanha, or Arepa de Pollo at Jojoto Steakhouse. Try Puerto Rican favorites like Mofongo De Dupleta, Rabo De Langosta, or La Hamaca at El Cilantrillo. Or bring your friends out for a night of dancing and drinks like Captain Jack’s Punch, Malibu Mermaid, and the Hurricane at Sun On the Beach.
Lakeland
- Population: 110,335
- Home Price: $160,400 median purchase price; $1,056 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 25% of Florida cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.4%
- Distance From Beach: 43.0 miles (Ben T Davis Beach)
Lakeland is a mid-sized city just 45 minutes outside of Tampa. With 38 named lakes within city limits, Lakeland lives up to its name—offering plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities in lakeside parks and promenades, as well as nearby Colt Creek State Park. Downtown Lakeland is a quaint, walkable and bikeable area full of local shops, attractions, local parks, and museums. Lakeland is also an affordable place to live in Florida for students, with young adults finding great educational opportunities at nearby Florida Southern College. If you need easy access to flights, the Lakeland International Airport can get you wherever you need to go. And if you’re a sports fan looking for fun events in Lakeland, look out for the next spring training game of the Detroit Tigers (MLB) at Publix Field!
Things to Do in Lakeland
Walk the Frances Langford Promenade around Lake Mirror or through Hollis Garden, or play at the splash pad and playground in Barnett Family Park in the Lake Mirror Complex. Enjoy fun free things to do in Lakeland by exploring collections like American Art to 1960, American Paintings & Sculpture since 1960, and Global Art at The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art. Learn about aviation in a Florida museum with exhibits like Commercial Aviation and Wings at War at the Florida Air Museum. See new movies, check what’s on the double feature schedule, or visit the Swap Shop market at the Silver Moon Drive-In. Get all-day breakfast options like the Big Boy Breakfast, Cheddar Scramble, or Fat Cat Breakfast at Cozy Oaks Restaurant. Grab sandwiches like the Bistro BLT, Magnolia Mirror, or Portobello Parker at Garden Bistro—or try daily specials featuring seasonal ingredients. Sit down for Mexican dishes like Tacos De Birria, Burrito California, and Stuffed Chiles Poblanos at Tapatio’s Restaurante Mexicano. Or order a hearty dinner of Jack Black Smoked Pork Ribs, Fried Chicken, or Fried Catfish at Fred’s Market Restaurant.
Melbourne
- Population: 82,281
- Home Price: $186,000 median purchase price; $1,087 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 31% of Florida cities
- Unemployment Rate: 2.1%
- Distance From Beach: 3.6 miles (Melbourne Beach)
Named after the Australian city, Melbourne, Florida is a vibrant coastal town situated along the Indian River Lagoon just 45 minutes from Cape Canaveral. Melbourne is both a great vacation spot and one of the most affordable beach towns in Florida—offering budget-friendly housing and a lower cost of living than many other Florida cities. Known for its artsy culture, Melbourne is home to the Eau Gallie Arts District, where residents can shop local businesses, browse art galleries, and visit historical sites. The community also gathers at annual events like the Melbourne Independent Filmmakers Festival, Melbourne Art Festival, and Downtown Melbourne Food & Wine Festival. While residents have great amenities at their fingertips, those itching to travel can take advantage of major roadways like I-95, public transportation through Space Coast Area Transit, and air travel at Melbourne Orlando International Airport.
Things to Do in Melbourne
Swim, go boating, play beach volleyball, or fish off the pier at Melbourne Beach. Take a one-of-a-kind kayaking tour through the zoo, feed birds like lorikeets and cockatiels, or admire other animals at the Brevard Zoo. Spend a day in Historic Downtown Melbourne to explore quirky shops like Creative Bazaar Art & Oddities, or paint your own pieces at Get Fired Up Pottery. Stroll through 15 acres of flora and fauna, identify native plants, or have a picnic in the shade at the Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden at Florida Tech. Dig in to comfort food like French Toast, Biscuits & Gravy, or a Buttermilk Short Stack at That Little Restaurant. Stop for a Milky Way Latte with a Cucumber Dill Wrap or Brie Apple Nut Melt sandwich at the 905 Cafe. Order casual Thai dishes like Thai Fried Rice, Red Curry, or Volcano Chicken at Jao Thai Kitchen. Or listen to live music while dining on Irish pub fare like Shepherd’s Pie, Potato Balls, and Crab & Shrimp Cake at Meg O’Malley’s Restaurant & Irish Pub.
[nearby_stores map=’0′ lat=’27.4937881′ lng=’-89.110902′]Palm Coast
- Population: 88,222
- Home Price: $226,100 median purchase price; $1,374 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 35% of Florida cities
- Unemployment Rate: 2.2%
- Distance From Beach: 8.4 miles (Flagler Beach)
For those wanting quiet, affordable living in Florida near the beach, Palm Coast is a great place to settle down! Nature enthusiasts will thrive here, with over 130 miles of trails for hiking and biking—along with easy access to Flagler Beach. Residents can also enjoy local amenities like Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa, which is home to the expertly designed Tom Watson Golf Course. And with multiple Florida state parks within reach—including Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, Bulow Creek State Park, and Faver-Dykes State Park—you won’t have to worry about finding things to do in nature, even if the beach isn’t your jam!
Things to Do in Palm Coast
Take your furry friend to the dog park, let your kids play on the splash pad, or work out with a game on the multipurpose fields in Holland Memorial Park. Shop and eat your way through the colorful Palm Coast shopping district, European Village—or find live music and fun events to attend at this area’s entertainment venues. Take a group tour to learn about old Florida history, or sign up for a horseback trail ride or riding lessons at the Florida Agricultural Museum. Sink your toes into the sand on a walk down the beach or plan a full day of tanning and swimming at Varn Park. Try Asian fusion cuisine like Drunken Noodles, Pad Thai, and Beef Lok Lak at Far East Fusion. Order a Margherita, Meatball, or Honey Hot Neapolitan-style pizza at Fire in the Bricks. Savor great Haitian soul food like Oxtail, Tassot, and Red Snapper at Kreyol Bistro Bar and Grill. Or get amazing sushi like the Ginza Roll and Jax Roll paired with Miso Ramen at an incredible Japanese restaurant in Palm Coast, Wild Ginger.
Pensacola
- Population: 52,918
- Home Price: $199,300 median purchase price; $998 median monthly rent
- Crime Rate: Safer than 36% of Florida cities
- Unemployment Rate: 3.6%
- Distance From Beach: 9.0 miles (Pensacola Beach)
Looking for an affordable coastal city in Florida with a diverse population and a rich, multicultural history? Consider Pensacola, known as “The City of Five Flags.” With affordable home prices and rental options, Pensacola isn’t just a budget-friendly beach vacation destination—it’s also a great place to live! For history buffs, Historic Pensacola offers 30 historic properties spread across eight acres, providing plenty of opportunities to learn and explore the city’s past. Nature lovers can also find plenty of fun things to do in Pensacola, with 93 parks to choose from, including the popular Bayview Park. Frequent travelers will appreciate easy access to the Pensacola International Airport—or enjoy a fun staycation at Pensacola’s white sand beaches, including its namesake Pensacola Beach. And summer brings even more excitement with the Pensacola Beach Air Show each July, featuring thrilling aerial performances from the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.
Things to Do in Pensacola
Bring the kids to play on playgrounds, baseball and softball fields, or soccer courts at Hitzman-Optimist Park. See a Pensacola Blue Wahoos (MiLB) game at Blue Wahoo Stadium in Community Maritime Park. Explore the permanent collection of Modern and Contemporary art, from the 19th century to the present day, at the Pensacola Museum of Art. Sign up for classes like Pottery on the Wheel, Painting & Drawing, and Sewing at First City Art Center. Order pies like La Bianco, Pesto Vecchio, and Ponderosa Stomp at O’Zone Pizza Pub. Try Korean classics like Bulgogi and Bibimbop, or get Table Top Hot Pot at Kalbi Ichiban. Dig in to the Catfish Basket, Shrimp Basket, or Chicken & Waffles from Five Sisters Blues Cafe. Or spend an evening enjoying coastal American dishes like the Sun-Dried Tomato Fresh Catch, Seared Crab Cakes, or Filet of Beef at Dharma Blue.
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City statistics from AreaVibes
The Extra Space Storage team is committed to helping people find the perfect place to call home no matter what stage of life they’re at. Our “Best Places to Live” picks are designed to make moving easier by providing accurate and comprehensive information on various metro areas across the country. We consider factors like cost of living, job opportunities, local attractions, education, and more to help those looking to move make an informed decision. Discover more about our methodology today.
