This article looks at the 5 best places in florida to retire on a budget. For more information on best places, go to 13 Best Places in Florida to Retire on a Budget.
5. St. Petersburg
Insider Monkey Score: 3
Wonderful weather, a thriving arts and culture scene, and lots of beaches make up the city of St. Petersburg. 19.3% of the population here comprises seniors that are 65 years or older. The cost of living is 100.4, which implies little difference as compared to the U.S. average. Groceries and utilities are the main factors driving the index to a slight high. On the other hand, housing costs are pretty affordable at $346,900. Assisted living care in the city costs around $3,350 per month.
4. Gainesville
Insider Monkey Score: 3
Gainesville is a good place for retirees considering its nationally ranked healthcare system, beautiful weather, and affordable cost of living. 14.7% of the population in the city is 65 years or older. Best Places notes that the cost of living in the city is 90.0, which means it is 10% lower than the U.S. average. While utilities may be slightly higher on average (5%), groceries and housing are cheaper in the city. The median home costs around $255,000, while average rents are approximately $1700. There are lots of retirement communities to choose from too.
3. Jacksonville
Insider Monkey Score: 3
Retirees who want lots of sunshine at an affordable cost can also consider Jacksonville for retirement. The city offers a thriving arts and culture scene, top healthcare facilities, as well as lots of activities. 13.7% of the population in the city is 65 or older, meaning that the city attracts lots of retirees. The cost of living in Jacksonville is 6-7% lower than the U.S. average, and housing is affordable too. Median homes list around $304,000, while average rents in the city are between $1400-$1800.
2. Lakeland
Insider Monkey Score: 3
Lakeland, Florida, is another top retirement destination for retirees based on its moderate climate, abundant activities, and affordable cost of living. Best Places states the cost of living in Lakeland is 88.3, which means it is 11.7% cheaper than the U.S. average. Median home prices in the city stand at $306,000, while average rents range between $950 to $2,425, depending on different factors. 21% of the population in Lakeland comprises seniors 65 or older. The average social security income in Lakeland is $16,799 per year, while senior households’ annual income averages $10,000. The Lakeland area comprises 13 independent living communities with average costs of around $2,527 only.
1. Melbourne
Insider Monkey Score: 4
The mid-sized beach community on the Atlantic Coast is gaining traction amongst retirees, and with good reason. A friendly tax climate, affordable living, and a wealth of recreation options make this city a prime choice for retirement. The average cost of living in Melbourne, Florida, stands at 94.4 according to Best Places, averaging at $2,119 approximately. This implies that Melbourne is 5% cheaper than the U.S. average. Moreover, median homes cost around $330,000, while average rents for one-bedroom apartments are $1,560.
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