Top 5 Cities in Florida for Renters Seeking Financial Balance

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Florida shines not only for its sunny beaches and lively culture but also as a great spot for renters looking to make their dollars go further. With the cost of living climbing nationwide, finding a city where you can live comfortably without spending all your hard-earned money is paramount.

If you’re considering a move to Florida, we got your back! We took a closer look at the top five cities in the Sunshine State where renters can achieve financial well-being, ensuring their paycheck covers rent, utilities, and other living expenses, while still enjoying life. From Jacksonville to Fort Lauderdale, let’s delve into the financial dynamics of renting in these cities, aiming for a balance between income and expenses.

So, if you’re searching for the best places where financial balance is within reach, this guide is your starting point as you hunt for rental apartments in Florida.

Jacksonville shines as one of the best cities for renters seeking financial balance

Jacksonville stands out as a haven for renters seeking financial balance in Florida, with an annual median income of $50,079 perfectly poised against living costs. Monthly rent averages $1,517 in Jacksonville, leaving ample room for other expenses. Utilities (energy and phone bills) sum up to $387, while basic food items cost around $65 monthly. Regular doctor’s visits are affordable at $272, transportation (one gallon of gasoline and tire balancing services) is a mere $38, and goods and services round out at $213. This balance ensures renters in Jacksonville can enjoy a comfortable life, making it one of the best cities for renters aiming for financial well-being.

View of downtown Jacksonville, FL.

Renters in Cape Coral enjoy coastal living and financial stability

Cape Coral offers renters the opportunity to strike an ideal financial balance with an annual median income of $63,078. The average monthly rent here is $2,122, balanced by relatively low living expenses. Utilities cost $376, while basic food necessities are priced at $68. Healthcare, an essential expense, averages $353 for regular visits, transportation costs stand at $75, and goods and services demand $223 monthly. This makes Cape Coral a prime location for renters seeking a blend of coastal living and financial stability.

Boating along canal in Cape Coral, FL, with apartment building in the background.

Endless entertainment meets great living standards in Orlando

Orlando is not just the home of renowned theme parks but also a land of financial opportunity for renters. With an annual median income of $55,467 and an average monthly rent of $1,927, the city promises a good standard of living. Utilities take up $349, basic groceries $67, doctor’s visits $300, transportation costs $61, and goods and services $277. Orlando’s balanced economy makes it a top choice for renters focused on financial well-being in a city of endless entertainment and opportunities.

View of Orlando skyline from Lake Eola in Florida.

Tampa is the epitome of financial balance under the sun

Tampa shines as a beacon of financial equilibrium, offering renters an annual median income of $54,366 against a monthly rent of $1,920. Energy and phone bills amount to about $366, while groceries can be budgeted at $68. Healthcare, an unavoidable expense, averages $331 for regular check-ups, while transportation and goods and services average $64 and $196, respectively. That said, Tampa’s cost of living and income balance place it on the list of best cities for renters seeking sunshine and financial stability.

Downtown city skyline view of Tampa, FL, looking over the freeway and the Riverwalk.

Fort Lauderdale offers luxurious living without going over budget

Fort Lauderdale might be known for its luxurious lifestyle, but it’s also accommodating for renters aiming for financial balance. With an annual median income of $60,798 and a higher monthly rent of $2,689, the city still manages a comfortable living balance. Utilities add up to about $391, with basic food items at $73, healthcare at $352, transportation at $67, and goods and services peaking at $245. Despite its upscale reputation, Fort Lauderdale presents a viable option for renters prioritizing financial well-being without compromising on lifestyle.

Fort Lauderdale, FL, skyline on a cloudy day.

Florida’s diverse cities offer unique opportunities for renters seeking to balance their income with living expenses. Specifically, achieving financial well-being as a renter is attainable in places like Jacksonville, Cape Coral, Orlando, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale. By choosing wisely, renters can truly enjoy the benefits of Florida living while maintaining a comfortable and sustainable lifestyle.

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Veronica Grecu is a senior creative writer and researcher for RentCafe. With more than 10 years of experience in the real estate industry, she covers a variety of topics in residential and commercial real estate, including trends and industry news. Previously, she was involved in producing content for Multi-Housing News, Commercial Property Executive and Yardi Matrix. Veronica’s academic background includes a B.A. in Applied Modern Languages and an M.A. in Advertising and PR.

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