Top 5 Cheapest places to live in Florida with the Best quality of life – 2024

• Median 1-bed apt rent: $1,745
• Median property buying cost: $269,000

If you value small-town charm and a friendly community spirit, Bartow is an ideal place to call home. The city not only offers a rich Southern history with landmarks like the Old Polk County Courthouse, but it also provides access to shops and dining within its historic downtown district. Additionally, pharmacies and medical centers, such as Bartow Regional Medical Center, are all within minutes.

Its strategic location between Tampa and Orlando, near Lakeland and Winter Haven, facilitates easy commuting. Newcomers are welcomed by the friendly community that appreciates the quiet environment. Housing is affordable, with a median property price of $269,000 and a $1,745 median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment as of January 2024.

City of Bartow (Jan 2024), Local Logic (Jan 2024), Zillow (Jan 2024) & Rocket Homes (Jan 2024)

• Median 1-bed apt rent: $1,969
• Median property buying cost: $330,175

Palm Bay, located on Florida’s east-central coast along the Indian River Lagoon, offers residents scenic waterfront views and outdoor activities, including 29 city parks, golf courses, off-road cycling, and beaches. Moreover, they also enjoy nature in The Turkey Creek Sanctuary’s 130-acre preserve area with jogging trails, all within a peaceful countryside setting.

Residents also have easy access to malls and entertainment venues, such as Palm Bay Center and Bayside Lakes Shopping Center. Housing in Palm Bay is more affordable than in many other Florida cities, providing options from single-family homes to apartments and condominiums. As of January 2024, the median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,969, and the median property price is $330,175.

Palm Bay Florida (Jan 2024), Local Logic (Jan 2024), Zillow (Jan 2024) & Rocket Homes (Jan 2024)

• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,400
• Median property buying cost: $355,000

The coastal city of Sebastian, along the Indian River Lagoon, offers pristine waterways and natural beauty. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts with activities like surfing and fishing, it’s also a haven for eco-lovers, featuring Pelican Island for birdwatching. Housing consists mainly of reasonably priced single-detached houses and large apartments. As of January 2024, the median property price is $355,000, and the rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,400.

The city of Sebastian is described by residents as peaceful and secure with a small-town vibe that seamlessly connects to vibrant cities like Melbourne (a 29-minute drive) and Vero Beach (a 23-minute drive) via Dixie Hwy, providing diverse dining and entertainment options.

City of Sebastian (Dec 2023), Local Logic (Jan 2024), Zillow (Jan 2024) & Rocket Homes (Jan 2024)

• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,100
• Median property buying cost: $362,194

Newberry is a small city located in North Central Florida, in Alachua County. It is known for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it ideal for living. The city has a mix of residential, commercial and agricultural areas. With natural landscapes and parks where residents enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. 

It is well located just a 29-min drive to Gainesville where is located the University of Florida, named as one of the top ranked public universities in the country. Newberry is home to mainly people in their 20s and 60s. Housing type is mostly single detached houses, providing an affordable living option. As of January 2024 the median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,400, and the median property price is $355,000.

Newberry (Jan 2024), Local Logic (Jan 2024), Zillow (Jan 2024) & Rocket Homes (Jan 2024)

• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,100
• Median property buying cost: $362,194

Port Orange on Florida’s east coast blends coastal charm and tranquility. The warm climate and nearby beaches provide opportunities for water sports and relaxation, while parks like Riverwalk Park offer a chance to connect with nature through biking or leisurely strolls. Residents also appreciate its proximity to Daytona Beach (a 17-minute drive for dining) and Orlando (a 1-hour drive for theme parks).

Port Orange offers a more affordable cost of living compared to other cities in the Sunshine State, especially in housing. Neighborhoods like Ashton Lakes and Forest Lake Preserve provide diverse and budget-friendly options. As of January 2024, the median rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,400, and the median property price is $355,000 in Port Orange.

Port Orange (Jan 2024), Local Logic (Jan 2024), Zillow (Jan 2024) & Rocket Homes (Jan 2024)