Considering moving to Tallahassee? Located in the Florida Panhandle, Tallahassee is the largest city in the region—and there are plenty of reasons why it continues to grow. Florida’s capital city offers great outdoor recreation, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and lots of family-friendly activities. Check out these 15 things to know about living in Tallahassee!
Tallahassee at a Glance
- Tallahassee is a mid-size Florida city, with a population of 206,428.
- Tallahassee is the state capital of Florida and is known as a major college town, being home to Florida State University, Florida A&M University, and Tallahassee State College.
- Located in the panhandle region, Tallahassee is around a two-and-a-half hour drive from Jacksonville, around three hours from Pensacola, and just over four hours from Tampa.
- The median age for residents in Tallahassee is 27.2, which is around 11 years younger than the national median and around 14 years under the state median.
- Tallahassee is home to the strongest magnet on Earth, located in the Florida State University High Magnetic Field Laboratory (aka the “MagLab”).
Experience an Affordable Cost of Living in Tallahassee
Tallahassee is a good city to live in partially because the cost of living in Tallahassee is 6% lower than both the state and national averages! With a reasonable median home price of $456,539 and a median monthly rent of $1,430, housing in Tallahassee is affordable for all types of households. In fact, Tallahassee’s housing costs are lower than the national average and more affordable than in other big Florida cities like Miami and Orlando. These affordable housing options allow your salary to go much farther in Tallahassee—especially since Florida doesn’t have a state income tax.
Q: What is a livable salary in Tallahassee?
A: A single adult with no children in Tallahassee needs to earn roughly $44,244 a year to cover basic living expenses. Families with children will need to earn more depending on their household size and the number of working adults.
Find a Variety of Jobs in Tallahassee
With a steady job market, Tally is a great place to find employment opportunities in major industries like education, healthcare, finance, and professional services! It’s also a great city to work in if you’re looking to get involved in the local politics of the City of Tallahassee, or at the regional level for the State of Florida—both of which are among the largest employers in the city. Another major employer, Florida State University‘s flagship campus in Tallahassee, employs over 10,000 residents in the fields of academic research, political science, and public policy. Other jobs in Tallahassee can be found with top employers like Capital City Bank, Moore Communications Group, and Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare.
Q: What is the average salary in Tallahassee, FL?
A: The median income per capita in Tallahassee is $43,334, compared to the state median of $40,554. Tallahassee’s median household income is $69,924, compared to $72,078 statewide.
Enroll in Great Tallahassee Colleges
Much of Tallahassee’s culture is defined by it being home to Florida State University. Consistently landing in national rankings as one of the best public colleges and universities in the country, FSU brings a vibrant energy to the city—especially when football season kicks off in the fall! With 20 national championships under its belt, you can count on the Seminoles to bring fun and excitement each weekend. In particular, the men’s football (D-I FBS), men’s basketball, women’s soccer, and women’s softball teams are incredibly competitive and ensure there are plenty of sports in Tallahassee to enjoy throughout the year. Tallahassee is also home to Florida A&M University, one of the largest historically Black universities in the country. Those looking for a more affordable start to their post-high school education are well-served by the local Tallahassee State College, an institution over 135 years old with deep roots in Tallahassee history.
Q: Is Tallahassee a college town?
A: Yes, Tallahassee is known for being a college town. Home to colleges like Florida State University and Tallahassee State College, Tallahassee has a median age of around 27 years, with plenty of exciting nightlife and things to do for students seeking ways to enjoy time outside their studies.
Travel With Tallahassee Public Transit
Also known as Cycle City, Tally has over 700 miles of biking trails, as well as several bike paths throughout the city. Thanks to its mountain biking trails, kid-friendly paths, multi-use lanes, and inner-city trails, biking in Tallahassee isn’t just a passion—it’s a lifestyle. Rent an e-scooter or hail a pedicab to get around Downtown Tallahassee. Hop on the StarMetro, Tally’s bus system that travels within the city. If you’re looking to travel to Orlando, Tampa, or Miami, get on a bus at the Tallahassee Bus Station. Or you can take the Amtrak train to different parts of Florida, like Pensacola or Jacksonville. For air travel, board a plane at the Tallahassee International Airport to reach other U.S. cities and beyond.
Q: Is Tallahassee walkable?
A: Tallahassee is relatively easy to navigate by car, but walkability varies by neighborhood. The downtown and Florida State University areas are more pedestrian-friendly, while other areas are better navigated by car or public transit.
Live Comfortably in Tallahassee’s Climate
Tallahassee stands out as one of the few places in Central Florida where you can still get a taste of all four seasons due to its subtropical climate. Summers in Tally are hot and humid, with high temps of around 92 degrees and frequent thunderstorms. Winters are generally mild, with an average January low of 39 degrees. Spring and fall are especially pleasant with milder and drier conditions. You’ll even get to see the leaves change colors come autumn! Tallahassee’s weather provides a little bit of all of the seasons, making this Florida city a pleasant place to live at all times of the year.
Q: Does it get cold in Tallahassee?
A: Due to its location, Tallahassee does get noticeably cooler in the winter than other major cities in Florida. The average winter low temperature is around 39, with no annual snowfall.
Soak Up the Sun at Beaches Near Tallahassee
While it may not be a beachfront town, you can still enjoy some of Florida’s best beaches close to Tallahassee. Travel around an hour or less to find secluded beach spots in Bald Point State Park or St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, where you can enjoy hiking, picnic areas, and maybe even alligator sightings. Go boating, fishing, or birdwatching at Mashes Sands Beach, less than an hour away from Tallahassee. Travel roughly an hour and 20 minutes southeast to Keaton Beach to sunbathe or go fishing. Visit Carrabelle Beach—also around an hour and 20 minutes away—to go snorkeling or take peaceful walks along the coastal shores. Swim in the clear waters of St. George Island, which is just north of Florida’s Gulf Coast—and under two hours away from Tally. Or play a game of beach volleyball or jet ski across the waves of Panama City Beach, around a two-hour drive west.
Q: Is Tallahassee close to the ocean?
A: While Tallahassee is not a beachfront city, it is located approximately 20 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, making day trips to a variety of Florida beaches very accessible.
Explore Diverse Parks & Trails in Tallahassee
With a variety of parks and trails in Tallahassee, incredible outdoor recreation is available year-round. Get a glimpse of earthen temple mounds formed by the region’s ancient inhabitants at Lake Jackson Mounds Archaeological State Park. Take a jog, walk your furry pal, or enjoy a musical performance in the amphitheater at Cascades Park. Stroll through A.J. Henry Park, a 72-acre park where you can have a picnic or let the kids play on the playground. Bike or walk on the Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail, which runs 21 miles from Florida’s capital city to St. Marks. Go mountain biking on the Magnolia Trail at Tom Brown Park for a dirt trail that’s well-suited to riders of varying skill levels. Spend the day boating or fishing at Lafayette Heritage Trail Park. Or head to Lake Ella Park to check out the scenic views of the lake and go birdwatching.
Q: Are there good walking trails in Tallahassee?
A: Yes—there are over 700 miles of trails in Tallahassee, making it a great place for outdoor recreation like hiking, biking, horseback riding, and more.
Visit Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park
Known as a masterpiece of floral architecture, Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park offers a ton of must-see amenities! Go horseback riding, hiking, or biking on the lakeside trails throughout the woods. Check out the wildlife in the park, which includes deer, bobcats, alligators, and more. Spend a day fishing for largemouth bass and bluegill at Lake Hall, or enjoy other water activities like kayaking, paddle boating, or canoeing. Listen to live jazz while relaxing under the moonlight at the Moon Over Maclay Concert. Or stroll through gardens that feature a variety of beautiful plants like camellias, azaleas, and magnolias.
Q: What is Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park famous for?
A: Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park is well-known for its 28-acre botanical gardens, featuring flora like dogwood and magnolia trees, azaleas, camellias, and other beautiful blooming plants. The park is also a great place for other outdoor activities in Tallahassee, such as hiking, boating, wildlife viewing, geo-seeking, and more.
Celebrate Tallahassee Events & Festivals
You won’t have to go far to find fun events and festivals in Tallahassee! Join more than 100,000 attendees at the Springtime Tallahassee Festival, which features a parade, live entertainment, and more. Sample over 200 varieties of beer, seltzer, and cider at the Tallahassee Beer Festival. See the visionary creations of local and global filmmakers at the Tallahassee Film Festival. Find original art from over 170 artists who traveled from all over the country to show their work at the LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival. Celebrate Jewish culture and preorder corned beef sandwiches, matzo ball soup, kugel, and more for the Tallahassee Jewish Food Festival. Or attend the North Florida Fair, where you can find the best fried food, a carnival for the kids, and entertainment at the Cowboy Circus.
Q: How old is the Springtime Tallahassee Festival?
A: The first annual Springtime Tallahassee Festival was held in 1968—nearly 60 years ago—after local business leaders launched the event as part of a strategy to keep the state capital in Tallahassee, at a time when legislators were considering moving it to Orlando.
Take a Trip to Downtown Tallahassee
It’s no wonder why Downtown Tallahassee is so walkable—it’s a hot spot for dining, shopping, and live entertainment! Learn more about the state’s history at the Florida State Capitol in the Capitol Hill District. Browse a wide selection of books, apparel, jewelry, and artwork by Florida artists at the Florida History Shop. Sign up for art classes and workshops or see exhibits like Color Theory and Figure in Form at LeMoyne Arts. Head to the College Town District near Florida State University for drinks and Tuesday trivia night at Madison Social. Visit over 70 shops, food trucks, art galleries, and small businesses at Railroad Square Art District in Downtown Tallahassee. Check out a variety of art sculptures, murals, memorials, and monuments by going on a Downtown Public Art Walk. Or enjoy live music in Tallahassee with events like Sounds of Downtown Music Crawl, where you can see local bands perform and enjoy good food and drinks.
Q: What is the First Friday at Railroad Square event in Tallahassee?
A: Held on the first Friday of each month, First Friday at Railroad Square is a popular and free micro-festival featuring local food, live music, art galleries, and other vendors.
Discover Tally’s Museums
An incredible art scene is showcased in Tallahassee’s museums and theaters. Discover fantastic exhibits from modern and classic artists at FSU’s Museum of Fine Arts. Head over to the Tallahassee Automobile Museum to see some of the nation’s best antique cars. Stop by the Museum of Florida History, which has many exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Florida’s development. Explore 52 acres of trails, wildlife exhibits, and a zip line for aerial adventures at the Tallahassee Museum. Catch shows like A Christmas Carol, Plaza Suite, or The Spongebob Musical at Theatre Tallahassee. Or let the kids attend an acting class or see the Wizard of Oz at the Young Actors Theatre.
Q: Are there free museums in Tallahassee?
A: There are a few museums in Tallahassee that don’t charge admission, including the Florida Historic Capitol Museum, The Grove Museum, and the Union Bank Museum.
Enjoy Fun Things to Do in Tallahassee for Kids
Looking for entertainment for the little ones? There are plenty of fun activities in Tallahassee to do with kids! Go on a public tour around the lab to learn more about different magnets and how they’re made at The National Magnetic Field Laboratory. Watch shows inside the planetarium or let the kids learn more about science through hands-on learning labs at the Challenger Learning Center. Go on a riverboat tour that offers a glimpse of wildlife like alligators, turtles, and manatees at Wakulla Springs State Park. Sign the kids up for a pine-needle basket workshop or go on a group tour of a historical village showcasing Spanish and Native American History at Mission San Luis. Embark on a family hike, go horseback riding, or take a bike ride on the J.R. Alford Greenway Trail. Or play a round of mini golf, laser tag, or various arcade games at The Funstation.
Q: Is Tallahassee a good place to raise a family?
A: Tallahassee is a good place to raise children, given the city’s access to a variety of fun things to do, schools in the Leon County School District, and a generally more affordable cost of living than other Florida metros.
Find an Inclusive Community in Tallahassee
Tallahassee is one of the state’s more welcoming communities for LGBTQ residents, thanks in part to its large student population, thriving arts scene, and active local organizations like PFLAG Tallahassee and Equality Florida. Browse LGBTQ history, feminist literature, banned books, and more at Common Ground Books. Experience monthly First Friday events featuring local artists, live music, food vendors, and more at Railroad Square Art District. Catch live music, drag performances, comedy shows, and other events at 926 Bar & Grill, a popular gay bar in Tallahassee. Grab drinks and attend karaoke nights, live music performances, art markets, and more at an LGBTQ-friendly vegetarian restaurant in Tallahassee, The Bark. Or celebrate diversity, community, and resilience at Tallahassee Pridefest, which brings together local organizations, performers, vendors, and residents for one of the city’s largest LGBTQ community events.
Q: Is Tallahassee LGBTQ-friendly?
A: Tallahassee has an active LGBTQ community with local events, businesses, organizations, and gathering spaces. Annual Pride celebrations and and LGBTQ-friendly spots give residents opportunities to connect, celebrate, and find community.
Dig Into Delicious Tallahassee Food
If you’re hungry, check out some of the best restaurants in Tallahassee! Head to Kool Beanz Cafe to enjoy a daily rotating menu featuring seafood, Latin American flavors, and other unique offerings. Grab a seat and sample dishes like the Veggie Roll, Sashimi, or Spicy Tuna Roll at Azu Lucy Ho’s. Try the House Smoked Fish Dip, Pan Seared Atlantic Salmon, or Fire-Grilled 12-oz Cheshire Pork at Sage Restaurant. Enjoy Southern comfort food like Fried Chicken, Creole Penne Jambalaya, and Oxtails at Earley’s Kitchen. Fill up on a Margherita, Capricciosa, or Quattro Formaggi Pizza while sipping on a Kalik beer at Isabella’s Pizzeria Napoletana. Or get classic BBQ dishes like Signature Angus Brisket, St. Louis Style Ribs, or Pulled Pork at 4 Rivers Smokehouse.
Q: What food is Tallahassee known for?
A: Tallahassee food reflects the city’s location in North Florida, featuring lots of Southern cuisine, barbecue, seafood, and comfort food options, in addition to international and contemporary restaurants.
Check Out Tallahassee’s Nightlife
There are tons of bars and nightclubs in Tallahassee where you can have a drink and unwind on the weekends! Attend trivia night and enjoy mixed drinks for happy hour at Poor Paul’s Pourhouse. Stop in for cocktails like a Raspberry Lemondrop Martini, Blueberry Bourbon Smash, or Madria Sangria at The Brass Tap. Order share plates and drinks like the Bold Rock Hard Cider or Yuengling Amber Lager at Liberty Bar & Restaurant. Listen to country and hip-hop music at The Moon, where performers like George Strait and Hall & Oates have played. Choose from over 100 beers—with options like Fools Fire Growler or Reef Knot—at Fermentation Lounge. Try brews like Bell’s Double Two Hearted Ale, Infinite West Floridian, or King State Green Dart at Growler Country. Dance the night away while listening to the best Tallahassee artists like Izzy B or Casual T at Potbelly’s. Or enjoy an evening full of laughter during comedy night at Top Flite Club.
Q: Does Tallahassee have a good nightlife scene?
A: Yes, nightlife in Tallahassee is lively and fueled in part by its large population of college students and young professionals. The city has a variety of bars, breweries, live music venues, clubs, trivia nights, and other events to keep the fun going after dark.
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