Where to live cheaply in Florida

@jazmyn.lehner  Finding affordable places to live in Florida can vary depending on your preferences for urban or rural settings, proximity to amenities, and lifestyle preferences. Here are some areas in Florida known for their relatively lower cost of living:

1. Gainesville

• Description: Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville offers affordable housing options, a youthful atmosphere, and a range of cultural and outdoor activities.
• Pros: Affordable housing, college town amenities, strong educational institutions.
• Cons: Summers can be hot and humid.

2. Jacksonville

• Description: Florida's largest city by area, Jacksonville offers diverse neighborhoods with varying costs of living. Areas like Arlington, Southside, and Westside generally have more affordable housing options.
• Pros: Diverse communities, affordable housing, strong job market.
• Cons: Spread-out city, traffic congestion in some areas.

3. Tallahassee

• Description: The state capital and home to Florida State University and Florida A&M University, Tallahassee offers a lower cost of living compared to many other Florida cities.
• Pros: Affordable housing, college town amenities, government job opportunities.
• Cons: Summers can be hot and humid, limited nightlife compared to larger cities.

4. Pensacola

• Description: Located in the Florida Panhandle, Pensacola offers a lower cost of living compared to many other coastal cities in Florida. Areas like East Hill and West Pensacola can be more affordable.
• Pros: Beach access, lower property prices, military community.
• Cons: Hurricanes can impact the area, some areas prone to flooding.

5. Fort Myers

• Description: While parts of Fort Myers can be expensive, there are areas like Lehigh Acres and North Fort Myers that offer more affordable housing options.
• Pros: Outdoor activities, lower cost of living compared to nearby Naples, growing job market.
• Cons: Traffic congestion, hot and humid summers.

6. Daytona Beach

• Description: Known for its beach lifestyle and NASCAR events, Daytona Beach offers more affordable housing options compared to other coastal cities in Florida.
• Pros: Beach access, affordable housing, tourist economy.
• Cons: Seasonal tourism may impact quiet periods, limited job diversity.

7. Cape Coral

• Description: Located near Fort Myers, Cape Coral is known for its extensive c**** system and affordable housing options, particularly in areas further from the waterfront.
• Pros: Waterfront living, affordable housing, family-friendly amenities.
• Cons: Limited cultural amenities compared to larger cities.

8. Orlando (Suburban Areas)

• Description: While downtown Orlando and tourist areas can be expensive, suburban areas like Winter Park, Oviedo, and Apopka offer more affordable housing options.
• Pros: Family-friendly, strong job market, entertainment options.
• Cons: Traffic congestion, tourist influx in popular areas.

9. Spring Hill

• Description: Located north of Tampa, Spring Hill offers suburban living with affordable housing options and proximity to outdoor recreational activities.
• Pros: Affordable housing, suburban lifestyle, outdoor activities.
• Cons: Limited amenities compared to larger cities.

10. Sebring

• Description: Situated in central Florida, Sebring is known for its affordable housing, small-town charm, and proximity to Highlands Hammock State Park.
• Pros: Low cost of living, peaceful atmosphere, outdoor recreational opportunities.
• Cons: Limited job market, rural setting.

Factors to Consider:

• Cost of Housing: Research property prices and rental costs in different neighborhoods.
• Job Opportunities: Consider the local job market and commuting options if employment is a priority.
• Amenities: Evaluate the availability of shopping, healthcare, and recreational facilities.
• Climate: Florida’s climate varies, so consider your preferences for weather and seasonal changes.
• Safety: Investigate crime rates and overall safety of the neighborhoods you are considering.

Each of these areas offers affordability relative to other parts of Florida, but it's essential to visit and explore these neighborhoods to determine which one aligns best with your lifestyle and needs.