If you’re dreaming of sunshine, palm trees, and sandy beaches but worried about your budget, don’t worry—Florida has many affordable towns that offer the beauty and warmth of the Sunshine State without the high price tag. Whether you’re a retiree, a student, or a remote worker looking for a cheap place to live Florida style, this guide is for you.
We’ve researched and compiled a list of the 10 cheapest place to live in Florida where you can enjoy the relaxed Florida lifestyle, low cost of living, and good quality of life. These cities and towns combine affordability with sunshine, community charm, and access to beaches or nature. Let’s explore the cheapest places to live in Florida in 2025.
1. Sebring
Located in Central Florida, Sebring offers a low median home price and affordable utilities. Known as the “City on the Circle,” it has a charming downtown and access to beautiful lakes. With no state income tax and a quiet lifestyle, Sebring tops our list as the cheapest place to live in FL for budget-minded residents.
2. Homosassa
Homosassa is a small coastal town on Florida’s Nature Coast. It offers a relaxed pace, low housing costs, and scenic outdoor activities including kayaking with manatees. It’s one of the cheapest places to live in Florida for retirees and nature lovers alike.
3. Palatka
Palatka is located along the St. Johns River and is known for its historic architecture and peaceful surroundings. Housing costs are significantly below the state average, and the city is an excellent choice for those seeking a cheap place to live Florida style while enjoying riverfront charm.
4. Live Oak
This North Florida gem is one of the most affordable towns in the state. With a strong sense of community, a low crime rate, and median home prices under $200,000, Live Oak is easily among the 10 cheapest place to live in Florida in 2025.
5. Fort Meade
Fort Meade, located in Polk County, offers small-town living with extremely affordable housing options. Its proximity to larger cities like Lakeland and Tampa adds to its value, making it a great cheap place to live Florida residents often overlook.
6. Quincy
Located near Tallahassee, Quincy is rich in culture and Southern charm. The cost of living is well below the national average, and its quiet neighborhoods make it one of the cheapest places to live in Florida for families and retirees alike.
7. Bartow
Bartow is a Polk County city with historic homes, walkable neighborhoods, and reasonable living costs. It offers the perfect mix of affordability and access to nearby city centers, ranking it firmly among the cheapest place to live in FL with urban convenience.
8. Edgewater
Situated on Florida’s east coast near New Smyrna Beach, Edgewater is an affordable coastal town with beautiful views and budget-friendly housing. It’s ideal for beach lovers looking for the cheapest places to live in Florida without sacrificing shoreline access.
9. Lake City
Lake City is one of North Florida’s most affordable cities, known for its freshwater springs and outdoor adventures. With a median home value well below the state average, it’s a top pick for anyone seeking the 10 cheapest place to live in Florida for a peaceful lifestyle.
10. Arcadia
Arcadia is a charming, affordable small town in Southwest Florida. It boasts antique shops, scenic farmland, and low housing costs, making it one of the cheapest place to live in FL if you’re after a slower pace of life and community warmth.
FAQs – Cheapest Places to Live in Florida
Q1. What is the cheapest place to live in Florida?
A1. Sebring is often considered the cheapest place to live in Florida due to its low housing costs and overall affordability.
Q2. Are there affordable coastal towns in Florida?
A2. Yes, towns like Homosassa and Edgewater offer coastal living at much lower prices than popular beach cities.
Q3. What Florida towns are best for retirees on a budget?
A3. Live Oak, Quincy, and Arcadia are popular among retirees seeking a cheap place to live Florida style with peace and quiet.
Q4. Is the cost of living lower in North Florida?
A4. Generally, yes. Cities like Lake City and Palatka tend to have a lower cost of living compared to major metros like Miami or Tampa.
Q5. Can I find cheap housing in Florida under $200,000?
A5. Absolutely. Many of the cheapest places to live in Florida have homes well under $200,000, especially in rural or small-town areas.
Final Thoughts: Florida doesn’t have to be expensive. From riverside towns like Palatka to beachside spots like Edgewater, these 10 cheapest place to live in Florida prove that paradise can be affordable. Whether you’re looking to retire, relocate, or downsize, there’s a cheap place to live Florida residents are proud to call home.
Looking for more affordable living options? Explore more lifestyle and location guides at USATop-10.
Budgeting for a move? Use CalculationClub to calculate moving costs, rent affordability, and more with ease.
