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Originally Posted On: https://securespace.com/blog/most-affordable-cities-to-live-in-florida/

 

Florida is an attractive destination for those seeking sunshine, white sand beaches, theme parks, and a vibrant atmosphere. However, the median home price of $305,266 and the median monthly rent of $1,800 can be challenging for budget-conscious residents. Fortunately, affordable options exist for those willing to live in smaller areas outside of 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 is one of the cheapest place to live in Florida, with a population of 35,882. Less than an hour west of Tampa, bordering the Saint Joseph Sound. The area offers budget-friendly homes with waterfront views, tons of outdoor recreation, and excellent restaurants within biking or walking distance.

Dunedin is close to cities like Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and Tampa, making it an ideal location for singles and young professionals who want to work in the town or spend their weekends enjoying urban amenities without the high cost of living.

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.

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4. Vero Beach

Vero Beach is a charming and affordable city on the East Coast of Florida. The city offers a laid-back lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities for people of all ages. The beautiful beaches, boutique shops, and fine dining options make Vero Beach a popular destination for a diverse mix of retirees, families, and young professionals.

Vero Beach has a range of housing options, from cozy bungalows to spacious estates, which makes it an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable and comfortable place to call home.

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, located on the East Coast of Florida, is a hidden gem that offers a laid-back lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities. The city is affordable, making it an excellent choice for retirees, families, and young professionals. Vero Beach is known for its beautiful beaches, boutique shops, and fine dining options, attracting diverse people. The city offers a range of housing options, from cozy bungalows to spacious estates, making it easier for anyone to find their perfect home.

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 that offers various outdoor activities and beautiful landscapes for nature lovers to explore. The city’s stunning waterways are perfect for kayaking and fishing, and the calm waters make it an ideal spot for beginners. The city also has several golf courses that challenge beginners and professionals. The beaches in Palm Coast are pristine and offer miles of soft, white sand and clear blue waters.

Take a dip in the ocean or simply soak up the sun while enjoying the beautiful views. You can also stroll on the beach, collect shells, or picnic with your loved ones. The Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is a must-visit attraction for those who love botanical gardens. The park is home to many plants and flowers that bloom throughout the year, providing a unique experience every time you visit. You can also explore the park’s historic gardens, filled with live oak trees that have been around for centuries.

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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!