Best Places to Live in Florida – People in the US really like Florida, and it’s not hard to see why. It has sunny beaches, no state income tax, good healthcare, and living there is cheaper than in many other places. That’s why a lot of people are moving there – around 300,000 last year! Living costs are about $4,224 a month, which is lower than the national average by 2%. Plus, since there’s no state income tax, it’s appealing to people from high-tax states like California and New York. Whether you’re young and starting your career or older and looking to retire, Florida has something for you. It’s got big cities like Pensacola and Miami, as well as quieter spots. Let’s check out the best places to live in Florida!
| # | Region | City | Population | Median Home Price | Monthly Expenses | Unemployment Rate | Overall Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | North | Jacksonville | 971,319 | $295,018 | $6,594 | 2.3% | 59/100 |
| 2 | Pensacola | 53,876 | $258,715 | $6,413 | 2.3% | 55/100 | |
| 3 | Tallahassee | 201,731 | $261,700 | $6,522 | 2.5% | 54/100 | |
| 4 | Central | Tampa | 398,173 | $391,949 | $6,941 | 3.2% | 59/100 |
| 5 | Melbourne | 86,441 | $375,504 | $6,641 | 2.4% | 59/100 | |
| 6 | South | Naples | 19,618 | $594,106 | $7,360 | 2.1% | 64/100 |
| 7 | Miami | 449,514 | $568,926 | $7,549 | 2.1% | 64/100 |
- Best Places to Live in Florida – Northern Florida
- Best Places to Live in Florida – Central Florida
- Best Places to Live in South Florida
- Best Places to Live in Florida for Families
- Best Places to Live in Florida for Young Adults
- Where to Live in Florida as Retirees?
- Best Places in Florida to Live for Young Professionals
- Bottom Line
Best Places to Live in Florida – Northern Florida
North Florida has ample work opportunities and good healthcare facilities. Here are the top 3 Best Places to Live in Florida in 2024:
1. Jacksonville: Best City to Move on a Budget
Jacksonville: With a population of over 971,000 people, Jacksonville offers a diverse range of job opportunities across various sectors. It boasts excellent healthcare facilities and a relatively low unemployment rate of 2.3%. Additionally, the median home price and monthly expenses are reasonable compared to other cities in Florida.
| Median Home Price | $295,018 |
| Median Household Income | $58,263 |
| Monthly Expenses | $6,594 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.3% |
2. Tallahassee: Best City for Post-High School Education
The capital city of Florida, Tallahassee, is known for its robust job market, particularly in government-related fields. With a population of around 201,000 people. Tallahassee offers a lower median home price compared to Jacksonville, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordable housing. The city also provides quality healthcare services and has a slightly higher unemployment rate of 2.5%.
| Median Home Price | $261,700 |
| Median Income | $49,077 |
| Monthly Expenses | $6,522 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.5% |
| Community Well-Being Score | 54/100 |
3. Pensacola: Best City for First-Time Home Buyers
Pensacola offers ample job opportunities, particularly in industries like tourism, healthcare, and aviation. With a population of around 53,000 people, Pensacola maintains a relatively low unemployment rate of 2.3%. Quality healthcare and lower median home prices make the city attractive. It’s a great choice for affordability without sacrificing amenities.
| Median Home Price | $258,715 |
| Median Income | $59,119 |
| Monthly Expenses | $6,413 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.3% |
| Community Well-Being Score | 55/100 |
Best Places to Live in Florida – Central Florida
Central Florida is a perfect blend of culture and a sunny climate. Here in Central Florida, there are the 2 Best Places to Live in Florida in 2024:
4. Tampa: Best City for Young Professionals
Tampa, located on the west coast of Central Florida, offers a vibrant cultural scene with a mix of historical landmarks, museums, and performing arts venues. The city enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities and enjoying the beautiful beaches along the Gulf Coast. Tampa also boasts a diverse economy with opportunities in industries such as healthcare, finance, and technology.
| Median Home Price | $391,949 |
| Median Income | $59,893 |
| Monthly Expenses | $6,941 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.2% |
| Community Well-Being Score | 59/100 |
5. Melbourne: Best Place to Live for Weather
Situated on Florida’s Space Coast, Melbourne offers residents a unique blend of cultural attractions and access to stunning beaches. The city is known for its rich history, arts festivals, and recreational opportunities like kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Melbourne’s sunny climate and proximity to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center make it an exciting place to live for those interested in science and space exploration. Additionally, the city has a lower cost of living compared to some other areas in Central Florida, making it an attractive option for residents seeking affordability without compromising on amenities.
| Median Home Price | $375,504 |
| Median Income | $55,543 |
| Monthly Expenses | $6,641 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.4% |
| Community Well-Being Score | 59/100 |
Seven states other than Florida & better to settle after Retirement
Best Places to Live in South Florida
Here are the two best places in South Florida in 2024, known for their vibrant nightlife and sunny beaches, making them ideal for young adults:
6. Naples: Best City for Professional Growth
While perhaps not as renowned for nightlife as Miami, Naples offers a more laid-back and sophisticated atmosphere. This affluent city on Florida’s Gulf Coast boasts pristine beaches, upscale dining establishments, and high-end shopping districts. Young adults looking for a combination of leisure and career opportunities can find them in Naples, which also offers a range of outdoor activities such as golfing, boating, and exploring nearby nature reserves.
| Median Home Price | $594,106 |
| Median Income | $125,306 |
| Monthly Expenses | $7,360 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.1% |
| Community Well-Being Score | 64/100 |
7. Miami: Best City for Luxurious Lifestyle
Miami is renowned worldwide for its energetic nightlife, diverse cultural scene, and stunning beaches like South Beach. The city offers an array of entertainment options, from trendy nightclubs and bars to art galleries and music festivals. With its warm climate and cosmopolitan atmosphere, Miami attracts young adults seeking excitement and opportunities. Additionally, Miami’s thriving economy provides job prospects in industries such as tourism, hospitality, and international trade.
| Median Home Price | $568,926 |
| Median Income | $47,860 |
| Monthly Expenses | $7,549 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.1% |
| Community Well-Being Score | 64/100 |
Best Places to Live in Florida for Families
The best cities to live in Florida for families, considering school districts, safe neighborhoods, and good connectivity:
- St. Petersburg: St. Petersburg stands out for its reputable private schools and the diverse educational programs offered by the Pinellas County School District. The city also boasts numerous family-friendly activities and events, including those held at St. Pete Pier. With its focus on education and community engagement, St. Petersburg is an attractive option for families seeking a well-rounded lifestyle.
- Miami Beach: Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere, Miami Beach offers access to over 165 public schools, making it an excellent choice for families prioritizing education. Despite the higher costs, Miami Beach provides families with a unique blend of cultural experiences, recreational opportunities, and educational resources.
Best Places to Live in Florida for Young Adults
the best places to live in Florida for young adults, considering educational and employment opportunities:
Coral Gables: Known as the “City Beautiful,” Coral Gables offers a vibrant atmosphere, partly due to its association with the University of Miami. This presence infuses the city with a youthful energy, making it an ideal destination for young adults. Coral Gables provides ample employment opportunities, particularly in the educational, healthcare, and retail sectors, catering to the diverse interests and career aspirations of its residents.
Gainesville: With a median age of just 26.5, Gainesville is well-suited for young adults seeking a dynamic and engaging environment. The city boasts a distinctive college-town atmosphere, thanks to the presence of the University of Florida. Excellent school district & its appeal to young families. The abundance of educational opportunities and a supportive community make Gainesville an attractive choice for young adults looking to establish their careers and build their futures.
Where to Live in Florida as Retirees?
- Ocala: Ocala is a close-knit community nestled amidst lush natural surroundings. Its inland location provides protection against hurricanes and storms, offering retirees peace of mind. Additionally, the cost of living in Ocala is notably lower compared to the national average, with housing, utilities, food & groceries, and goods & services costs ranging from 6% to 15% below average. These factors make Ocala an attractive choice for retirees seeking affordability and a tranquil lifestyle surrounded by nature.
- Sarasota: Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant cultural scene, Sarasota is an ideal destination for retirees looking to enjoy coastal living. With a median age of 54, Sarasota boasts a bustling community of retirees, offering ample opportunities for socialization and leisure activities. The city’s picturesque waterfront, diverse dining options, and cultural attractions contribute to its appeal among retirees seeking an active and fulfilling retirement lifestyle.
Best Places in Florida to Live for Young Professionals
- Orlando: With an expected employment growth of 10.2% by 2030, Orlando is positioned as a thriving hub for various industries. The city leads the nation in biotechnology, space research, defense, and aerospace technologies, offering a wide range of job opportunities in these cutting-edge fields. This growth outlook indicates Orlando’s status as a dynamic and forward-thinking city, making it an attractive destination for individuals seeking career advancement and innovation.
- Fort Lauderdale: Projected to experience a 6.9% increase in job opportunities by 2030, Fort Lauderdale offers a diverse economy with significant growth in sectors such as healthcare, food, and scientific research. The city’s strategic location, excellent infrastructure, and favorable business climate contribute to its appeal among businesses and job seekers alike. With its bustling job market and focus on emerging industries, Fort Lauderdale presents promising prospects for individuals seeking employment growth and professional development.
Bottom Line
In summary, Florida stands out as one of the top choices for living in the United States, thanks to its tax-friendly policies, warm climate, thriving job market, and beautiful beaches. While the Sunshine State offers a decent cost of living, just slightly above the national average by 1.1%, housing prices can vary significantly. On average, housing prices in Florida are 4% higher than in other states, ranging from around $250,000 in some areas to as high as $560,000 in certain cities. Therefore, it’s essential to conduct thorough research before making the move to Florida. Start by browsing properties online to get a better understanding of the housing market and options available to you.
