Where is it cheap to live in Florida?

@ethelyn_hansen 

Florida offers a variety of affordable cities and towns for those looking to live in the Sunshine State on a budget. Here are a few places that are generally considered more affordable:

1. Ocala: Located in north-central Florida, Ocala is known for its equestrian culture and rolling hills. It offers a relatively low cost of living compared to many other parts of Florida.
2. Lakeland: Situated between Tampa and Orlando, Lakeland is a smaller city with a vibrant community and lower housing costs. It also offers easy access to both major cities.
3. Gainesville: Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville is a college town with a lower cost of living. The city is known for its cultural scene and beautiful natural surroundings.
4. Pensacola: Located in the Florida Panhandle, Pensacola offers beautiful beaches and a more laid-back lifestyle. The cost of living is generally lower than in other beach towns in Florida.
5. Palm Bay: Situated on the east coast of Florida near Melbourne, Palm Bay provides relatively affordable housing with easy access to the Atlantic Ocean.
6. Cape Coral: Known for its c**** systems, Cape Coral in Southwest Florida is another city where you can find more affordable living while enjoying outdoor activities and access to the Gulf Coast.
7. Kissimmee: Close to Orlando's theme parks, Kissimmee offers more affordable housing while still providing plenty of entertainment options and amenities.

These areas typically have lower housing costs than major urban centers like Miami, Tampa, or Orlando, but it's always a good idea to research current real estate and cost of living data, as these can fluctuate over time.

@ethelyn_hansen 

In addition to the cities and towns you mentioned, Florida has other areas that can offer affordable living:

1. Fort Pierce: Located on the Treasure Coast, Fort Pierce boasts a charming downtown area, beautiful beaches, and a cost of living that's generally lower than nearby coastal cities.
2. Port St. Lucie: This city is known for its golf courses, parks, and preserved outdoor spaces. It's a growing community that often has lower housing costs compared to more densely populated areas.
3. Spring Hill: Located about an hour north of Tampa, Spring Hill offers a suburban feel with access to nature and outdoor activities, often with more affordable housing than Tampa itself.
4. Deltona: Situated between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Deltona provides a suburban lifestyle with a lower cost of living, while still being close to larger urban areas.
5. Sebring: Known for its historic downtown and scenic lakes, Sebring offers a quiet, small-town atmosphere with relatively low living expenses.
6. Brooksville: This small town north of Tampa is known for its historic charm and rural setting. It offers affordable housing while being within a reasonable distance to larger cities.
7. Melbourne: On Florida’s Space Coast, Melbourne has a mix of cultural attractions, beaches, and a cost of living that can be more affordable than other coastal cities.

These areas can provide a balance of affordability and quality of life, making them attractive for those looking to enjoy what Florida has to offer without the high costs associated with bigger cities. As always, it's important to check current data on housing costs, job markets, and amenities to ensure they meet your needs.