Florida appeals to those drawn to its sunny climate, pristine white sand beaches, lively theme parks, and energetic vibe. Yet, with a median home price of $305,266 and median monthly rent at $1,800, affordability can be a hurdle for budget-minded individuals. Nonetheless, more economical housing options are available for those open to residing in smaller towns beyond the bustling major cities. Below are our team at SecureSpace Self Storages top five most affordable places to live in Florida.
1. Cape Coral
Located across the Caloosahatchee River from Fort Myers, Cape Coral is one of the most affordable cities in Florida. With a population of 1703, Cape Coral is a family-friendly community ideal for settling down. Cape Coral has the most canals worldwide, with 400 miles of navigable waterways. It has a competitive real estate market for first-time home buyers and a rapidly growing local business scene.
Things to Do in Cape Coral
The city offers a variety of activities that cater to both locals and visitors. Sun Splash Waterpark allows one to enjoy water slides and relax in a lazy river. The Cape Coral Historical Museum offers an opportunity to learn about the city’s unique past and explore the beautiful rose garden. Yacht Club Community Park provides a great place to fish off the pier or build a sandcastle on the beach.
Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve offers a hiking trail and kayaking experience, while the Cape Coral Farmers Market offers fresh produce, seafood, and flowers. The Wicked Dolphin Rum Distillery is also a must-visit, providing a unique opportunity to taste rum flavors made from Florida sugarcane.
2. Dunedin
Dunedin stands out as one of Florida’s most affordable locales, home to 35,882 residents. Nestled less than an hour west of Tampa and adjacent to Saint Joseph Sound, Dunedin offers budget-friendly housing with waterfront vistas, abundant outdoor activities, and a plethora of top-notch restaurants within biking or walking distance.
Proximity to Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and Tampa makes Dunedin an attractive spot for singles and young professionals. They can easily commute for work or indulge in urban amenities on weekends, all without the hefty living expenses typically associated with larger cities.
Things to Do in Dunedin
Dunedin offers a diverse range of activities for both residents and visitors. Dunedin Stadium hosts spring training for the Toronto Blue Jays (MLB), while the Dunedin Mardi Gras Festival and Parade allow you to wear your most decorative mask. The Dunedin Highland Games and Festival offer a chance to participate in Scottish gaming traditions.
Honeymoon Island or Caladesi Island allows you to enjoy white sand Florida beaches, gorgeous sunsets, and paddleboarding. Dunedin Main Street offers a variety of antique jewelry boutiques, old-fashioned candy stores, Celtic shops, and much more.
Finally, Casa Tina offers Tamales, Chiles Rellenos, and Smoked Salmon Quesadilla, while Dunedin Brewery provides a chance to try the Tea Rex Amber Ale or Classic Beetz IPA with friends.
3. Lakeland
Located in the heart of Central Florida between Orlando and Tampa, Lakeland is one of the cheapest place to live in Florida. Known for its historic downtown, numerous lakes, and beautiful parks, Lakeland is a great option for families or retirees looking for a relaxed and peaceful lifestyle. The city is home to several colleges and universities, making it an ideal location for students and professors. Lakeland also offers plenty of job opportunities, with major employers like Publix Super Markets, GEICO, and Amazon setting up shops in the area.
GET IN TOUCH
Find A Storage Unit Near You!
4. Vero Beach
Vero Beach a charming and affordable city on Florida’s East Coast, offers a relaxed lifestyle with abundant outdoor activities for all ages. The city’s stunning beaches, unique boutique shops, and fine dining options attract a diverse mix of retirees, families, and young professionals.
Housing options in Vero Beach range from cozy bungalows to spacious estates, accommodating various budgets and preferences. This variety makes it an excellent choice for anyone seeking an affordable and comfortable place to call home. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a peaceful retirement, raise a family, or start a new career, Vero Beach provides a welcoming and vibrant community.
For nature enthusiasts, Vero Beach boasts numerous parks and nature reserves, perfect for hiking, bird-watching, and picnicking. The city also offers a range of cultural activities, including art galleries, museums, and local festivals, ensuring there’s always something to do.
Families will appreciate the excellent schools and family-friendly neighborhoods, while young professionals can take advantage of the city’s growing job market and networking opportunities. With its combination of affordability, beauty, and community spirit, Vero Beach is an ideal destination for anyone looking to enjoy the best of Florida living.
Things to Do in Vero Beach
Plenty of things to do in Vero Beach will keep visitors entertained for days. One of the top activities is to soak up the sun on the soft sand at South Beach Park. Visitors can also explore the famous citrus groves at the McKee Botanical Garden or step back in time and visit the Vero Beach Heritage Center and Citrus Museum. For a scenic drive, visitors can head down the Indian River Lagoon National Scenic Byway. And, for those with a sweet tooth, Frosting is a must-visit for their decadent cupcakes.
Foodies will be satisfied with Vero Beach, as many fantastic restaurants exist. Ocean Grill, a historic oceanfront restaurant from the 1940s, is a great spot to try the house’s specialty seafood. The Wave Kitchen & Bar at Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa is perfect for farm-to-table cuisine and live music. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, or beach bum, Vero Beach has something for everyone.
Vero Beach, nestled on Florida’s East Coast, is a hidden gem that promises a relaxed lifestyle brimming with outdoor activities. This affordable city is ideal for retirees, families, and young professionals alike. Renowned for its stunning beaches, charming boutique shops, and gourmet dining, Vero Beach attracts a diverse array of residents. With housing options ranging from quaint bungalows to expansive estates, finding the perfect home here is a breeze for anyone looking to settle in a vibrant yet laid-back community.
5. Ocala
Ocala is a city in Marion County, Florida, and is often called the “Horse Capital of the World.” Despite its growing popularity, Ocala remains one of the cheapest cities in Florida. The cost of living in Ocala is 9% lower than the national average, and housing costs are 26% lower than the national average. The city offers various outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, and horseback riding.
Things to Do in Ocala
Ocala is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities. The Ocala National Forest is the second-largest national forest in Florida, offering miles of hiking trails, fishing, swimming, and camping opportunities. Silver Springs State Park is another popular destination, with crystal-clear springs, glass-bottom boat tours, and kayaking.
For those interested in horses, the World Equestrian Center is a state-of-the-art facility that hosts horse shows and events throughout the year. The Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing is a must-see attraction for car enthusiasts, showcasing a collection of classic drag racing cars and memorabilia. The city offers a variety of shopping and dining options, including the Ocala Downtown Market, which features local vendors selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and more.
6. Gainesville
Gainesville is a city in North Central Florida, home to the University of Florida. With a population of over 133,000, the city offers a diverse community and a range of housing options, including affordable apartments and historic homes. Gainesville is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, as well as its outdoor recreation opportunities.
Things to Do in Gainesville
The city offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities. Visit the Harn Museum of Art, which houses over 11,000 works of art from around the world. Stroll through the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, which features 24 different collections of plants, including a bamboo garden and a butterfly garden. The Florida Museum of Natural History offers exhibits on Florida’s unique wildlife, geology, and history.
The city also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Gainesville Arts Market, the Downtown Festival and Art Show, and the Hoggetowne Medieval Faire. Gainesville has numerous parks and preserves for outdoor enthusiasts, including Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, which offers hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
7. Sarasota
Located on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Sarasota is known for its beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and thriving arts community. With a population of over 58,000, the city offers a range of housing options, from waterfront condos to historic homes. Sarasota is a popular destination for retirees, families, and young professionals.
Things to Do in Sarasota
Sarasota offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities. Visit the Ringling Museum of Art, which houses over 21 galleries of European and American art and a circus museum. Stroll through the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, which features 15 acres of tropical gardens and a greenhouse full of rare orchids.
The Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium offer exhibits on marine life and conservation and opportunities to interact with dolphins and sea turtles. The city also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Sarasota Film Festival, the Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sand Sculpting Festival, and the Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix Festival.
Sarasota has numerous parks and preserves for outdoor enthusiasts, including the Myakka River State Park, which offers hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
8. Pensacola
Pensacola is a city in Escambia County, Florida, known for its white sandy beaches and historic downtown area. The cost of living in Pensacola is 5% lower than the national average, and housing costs are 18% lower than the national average. The city offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking. Pensacola also has a robust military presence, with several military bases in the area.
Things to Do in Pensacola
Visitors can enjoy various activities, including swimming, sunbathing, fishing, boating, and hiking. The Gulf Islands National Seashore is a popular destination for those looking to enjoy the beach and water activities. The area is also home to several parks and nature reserves, such as Perdido Key State Park and Big Lagoon State Park, which offer great opportunities for hiking and camping.
If you’re interested in history and aviation, visit the Naval Aviation Museum, where you can see over 150 restored aircraft and explore the history of naval aviation. The historic downtown area is also a must-see, with its charming architecture, unique shops, and great restaurants.
Head to the Pensacola Blue Wahoos Stadium for a fun family outing to catch a baseball game. Finally, remember to check out the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk, where you can find a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
9. Palm Coast
Palm Coast is a city in Flagler County, Florida, known for its beautiful beaches and golf courses. Housing costs are 11% less expensive in Palm Coast than they are nationwide, and the cost of living is 1% cheaper. The city offers a range of outdoor activities, including kayaking, fishing, and hiking. Palm Coast has a strong job market, a growing economy, and a low unemployment rate.
Things to Do in Palm Coast
Palm Coast is a hidden gem offering a wealth of outdoor activities and breathtaking landscapes for nature enthusiasts. The city’s stunning waterways are perfect for kayaking and fishing, with calm waters making it ideal for beginners. Several golf courses cater to both novice and professional golfers, providing challenging and enjoyable rounds in beautiful settings. The pristine beaches boast miles of soft, white sand and clear blue waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, or picnicking with loved ones. The serene environment is ideal for unwinding and soaking up the coastal beauty.
A must-visit attraction is the Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, which showcases a diverse array of plants and flowers that bloom year-round. Visitors can explore historic gardens adorned with centuries-old live oak trees, offering a unique and picturesque experience with each visit. Whether you’re kayaking through tranquil waters, hitting the golf courses, lounging on pristine beaches, or exploring lush botanical gardens, Palm Coast has something to delight every visitor.
Thanks For Reading!
Florida offers several affordable cities that provide a high quality of life. Ocala, Gainesville, Pensacola, Palm Coast, and Lakeland are just a few examples of cities that offer affordable living, outdoor activities, and a strong job market. Whether looking for a college town or a beachside community, Florida has something to offer everyone.
Make your move to Florida stress-free with SecureSpace Self Storage, where we have convenient storage facilities throughout the Sunshine State. Let us help you find the perfect storage unit for your transition.
Now that you’re up to date on the most affordable cities to live in Florida, it’s time to think about what comes next. If you find yourself in need of self-storage in Florida, SecureSpace Self Storage is the way to go. We have facilities located conveniently nearby and each one is constantly monitored for your safety and peace of mind. Plus, we know the area like no other storage facility can – which makes us perfect guides for keeping your items secure. If you are looking for more local information checkout some more of our local guides. Thanks For Reading!
Best Storage Units in Florida!
GET IN TOUCH
Find A Storage Unit Near You!
