Florida Cost of Living: What It Really Takes to Live There in 2025

When people talk about the Florida cost of living, the total amount of money needed to cover basic expenses like housing, food, transportation, and taxes in the state of Florida. Also known as living expenses in Florida, it’s become one of the most debated topics for retirees, remote workers, and families looking to relocate. On paper, Florida looks like a dream: no state income tax, sunny days, and beaches everywhere. But behind the postcards, the real picture is more complex.

The biggest surprise? Florida housing prices, the average cost to buy or rent a home across Florida’s cities and counties. Also known as real estate costs in Florida, it has jumped over 40% in the last five years. In cities like Orlando, Tampa, and Miami, a modest 2-bedroom apartment now costs $2,000 a month or more. That’s more than many people pay in New York or San Francisco. And don’t assume rural areas are cheap—places like Gainesville and Jacksonville have seen rent hikes too, driven by out-of-state buyers and limited inventory. Even property insurance has doubled in some areas due to hurricane risks, adding hundreds to your monthly bills.

Then there’s Florida taxes, the combination of sales tax, property tax, and other local fees that affect your take-home pay. Also known as tax burden in Florida, while the state doesn’t charge income tax, it makes up for it with one of the highest sales tax rates in the U.S.—averaging 7% statewide, and hitting 8% in many counties. Groceries are exempt, but everything else—from clothes to electronics to dining out—is taxed. Add in property taxes, which have climbed as home values rise, and you’re paying more than you think. A $300,000 home might carry a $4,000 annual tax bill. That’s not nothing.

And let’s not forget utilities, gas, and healthcare. Florida’s heat means air conditioning isn’t optional—it’s a necessity. Electric bills can easily hit $200 in summer. Gas prices swing wildly based on oil markets and hurricane disruptions. And while Florida has top hospitals, out-of-pocket medical costs are high if you’re not on Medicare or employer insurance. The truth? The Florida cost of living isn’t low—it’s just different. It trades income tax for higher housing, insurance, and everyday expenses.

What you’ll find below are real, up-to-date insights from people who’ve lived through it. From which neighborhoods are still affordable to how much you actually need to earn to survive, these posts cut through the hype. You’ll see what renters are paying right now, how property taxes are changing, and where the hidden costs sneak in. No fluff. Just facts that help you decide if Florida is right for you—or if it’s just another marketing lie.