Cost of Living in
Florida

• Housing in Florida is 6% lower than the national average. The median home price in the state sits at $502,280.69, compared to the US average of $367,969. A 20% down payment comes out to nearly $77,300, and that's before closing costs or inspection fees. Mortgage payments are also higher than average, due to Florida's costly property insurance, especially in hurricane-prone coastal areas where wind and flood coverage is often required. If you're planning to buy a home in Florida, you should account for those added protections in your budget.
  Renting in Florida is 36.32% lower than the national average. A typical one-bedroom home in Florida costs $1,700 per month, while two-bedroom units average $2,000. That's a substantial leap from national averages, and prices climb even higher in major cities like Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach. Newer buildings often offer amenities like pools or fitness centers, but things like parking, in-unit laundry, or pet-friendly policies may still come with extra fees. If you're not locked into a lease yet, prepare for competition and rising rates in popular areas.
• Utilities in Florida are roughly on par with the U.S. average. The average electric bill in Florida hovers around $214.24, largely driven by the constant need for air conditioning in Florida's humid climate. Water and sewer add another $30 or so, and high-speed internet typically costs around $197.97 per month, depending on your location and provider. While base utilities aren't exorbitant, many homeowners pay HOA fees and often need hurricane-specific protections or surge protectors for frequent storms.
• Food and groceries in Florida are 5% lower than the national average. A family of four spends between $1,200 and $1,500 per month on groceries, while a single adult spends $400 to $550. Prices are inflated slightly due to Florida's tourism economy and distribution costs. Dining out can also be costly, particularly in metro or beachfront areas where tourist demand drives up prices.
• Transportation in Florida is 2.31% lower than the national average. Gas prices average $3.16 per gallon, and car insurance costs around $215 per month, which is 20% higher than the US average. Most residents rely heavily on personal vehicles, as public transportation is limited in many areas outside of cities like Miami or Orlando. Frequent toll roads, paid parking in downtown districts, and longer commutes can increase your monthly expenditure on transportation.
• Healthcare in Florida is 8.91% lower than the national average. Visiting a primary care doctor typically costs $139.6, and an emergency room visit can exceed $2,700 if you're uninsured. Health insurance premiums in Florida tend to be higher due to the significantly older population and uneven provider distribution across the state. While urban areas offer more options for care, rural regions may have limited access, driving up both wait times and out-of-pocket costs.
• Miscellaneous expenses in Florida are 1.81% lower than the national average. Gyms, entertainment, and personal services are slightly more affordable in Florida, though regional variation applies. While everyday costs like grooming or local outings are manageable, major leisure activities—like visiting Disney World or taking weekend trips to the Keys—can quickly inflate your monthly budget.

Moving to Florida? Be ready to pay more. But hey, the beaches and sunshine are free—just make sure your paycheck can handle everything else! 👉 Next Step: Compare single-family homes in Florida