6 Cheapest Beach Towns In Florida: Updated 2023

Florida is a top tourist destination due to its stunning beaches, thrilling amusement parks, and an extensive range of exciting activities all around the state. Florida’s beach towns are particularly popular as they offer the perfect spot for basking in the sun and are home to several famous amusement centers. Nevertheless, locating affordable beach towns in Florida may seem like a daunting task.

Fortunately, discovering the most affordable beach towns in Florida doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Several notable locations in the state offer proximity to the beach while remaining within a reasonable budget. These areas are ideal for those seeking a primary or secondary residence near the coast, making them an excellent investment opportunity for real estate investors. It’s a win-win situation for those looking to enjoy the beach lifestyle while still keeping their finances in check.

If you’re someone who’s on the lookout for affordable Florida properties or homes, then this blog is just for you. With the current market conditions, finding a cost-effective place to live by the beach can help you save significant amounts of money. This is especially beneficial for those who are planning to relocate for work or retire after a long and successful career. So, keep reading to discover some of the cheapest areas to live in Florida.

In this article, we will explore the key factors to consider when looking to purchase a home in one of Florida’s more affordable beach towns. We’ll delve into what makes a place inexpensive to live in and provide you with essential tips to simplify the buying process. Our goal is to offer you the necessary guidance to make an informed decision when buying a home in Florida.

How We Curated the Cheapest Beach Town List?

During our research on this process, we went through multiple sites and sources to gather the most precise and trustworthy information for you. Our approach involved relying on reputable websites to determine the median home prices, cost of living, advantages, disadvantages, and other essential factors. We made sure to prioritize government sites and well-established real estate teams to ensure the reliability of the data we collected.

Our aim is to present you with all-inclusive, lucid, and equitable lists for each town we delve into. Our objective is to offer you the most precise and reliable data, so that you can make an informed decision while investigating the most affordable beach towns in Florida. To achieve this, we rely on credible sources that increase the likelihood of discovering the most economical place to reside by the beach in Florida.

Sources

It is important to keep in mind that the data presented in this article may have limitations. Due to the dynamic nature of the data, it is possible that it may change frequently. Therefore, it is recommended to conduct further research beyond this article. You may refer to the sources provided below to get an idea of reliable sites that can assist you. To ensure consistency in our estimates, we attempted to search for each city on these sites whenever possible.

Cheapest Places to Live in Florida by the Beach

You may be surprised to learn that some of the most sought-after places to live in Florida are actually affordable beach towns. And while there are some well-known cities that fit this bill, there are also some hidden gems that offer a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere. These charming towns may not be overrun with tourists, but they offer a tranquil and idyllic coastal lifestyle that many people are looking for. So if you’re on the hunt for an affordable slice of paradise, these Florida beach towns might just be the perfect fit.

6. New Port Richey

New Port Richey is a popular city located in Pasco County, which is a part of the bustling Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater metropolitan area. Despite being a part of a large metropolitan area, the city has a small-town vibe with a population of only 17,332 residents. Living in New Port Richey can be an enjoyable experience as it offers the perfect balance of a peaceful lifestyle while being in close proximity to the big city. Here are some essential things you should know about living in this charming city.

Pros and Cons of Living in New Port Richey

If you’re looking for an affordable place to live in Florida near the beach, New Port Richey is definitely worth considering. Despite having a slightly higher cost of living than other areas, this city is highly livable and offers several benefits. With its easy access to the beach, top-notch education, and laid-back atmosphere, New Port Richey is an excellent choice for families looking for a comfortable and tranquil place to call home.

New Port Richey has been facing a problem of crime and stagnation in population. Living here may not offer many opportunities to meet new people, unlike other affordable beach towns in Florida. However, it’s worth noting that the crime rate is mostly restricted to issues that are unlikely to affect residents. Therefore, it’s essential to keep this in mind before considering a move to this town.

5. Cocoa

With a population of 19,559, Cocoa is a serene city in Brevard County, forming part of the Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville metropolitan area. Its smaller size gives it a warm and welcoming atmosphere that is ideal for families and retirees. If you’re looking for an affordable coastal city in Florida, then Cocoa is definitely worth considering. Here are some important things you should know about this charming city.

- Median Home Price: $302,409 per Zillow
- Taxes: $920 per $100,000 home value per Smart Asset
- Overall Cost of Living: 0.9% lower than the national average
- Things Cocoa is Known For: Island Boat Lines and other unique water-based activities

Pros and Cons of Living in Cocoa

Living in Cocoa is an excellent choice due to its low cost of living, which is well below the national average. This makes it an affordable and attractive place to call home. Moreover, the city boasts a high livability score, with many areas being easily accessible by foot. The educational system in Cocoa is also impressive, ensuring that your children receive the necessary support and guidance to thrive and succeed.

Cocoa, similar to several other beach cities in Florida, does face a crime issue that should be taken into consideration before deciding to relocate to this area. Primarily, there have been incidents of breaking and entering, alongside theft crimes. While violent crimes are not as common, they are not entirely unheard of. However, it is essential to note that crime is prevalent in all cities, and Cocoa’s crime rates are slightly higher than average for the region.

4. Deerfield Beach

Deerfield Beach has a population of 86,772 and boasts of a tranquil atmosphere despite being a fairly large city. It’s a hidden treasure that’s situated in the Miami area and is considered as one of the most affordable beach towns in Florida. The best part is that you can easily access the bustling city life without having to travel too far, although traffic can be an issue. Let’s take a look at some statistics that prove why Deerfield Beach is one of the most budget-friendly places to live in Florida near the beach.

- Median Home Price: $298,271 per Zillow
- Taxes: $1,200 per $100,000 home value per Smart Asset
- Overall Cost of Living: 16% higher than the national average
- Things Deerfield Beach is Famous For: The beautiful conservatory on the Intracoastal Waterway

Pros and Cons of Living in Deerfield Beach

Deerfield Beach, Florida stands out as an affordable beach town with a high quality of life and low crime rates. Families with young children will appreciate the town’s excellent educational system, which caters to a diverse range of backgrounds and needs. Deerfield Beach offers a secure and nurturing environment for children to grow and learn, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a safe and educational community in Florida.

Regrettably, the cost of living in Deerfield Beach is comparatively higher than other regions in Florida, especially when it comes to utilities. However, this doesn’t imply that it’s unaffordable for most individuals to reside here. Prior to relocating, it’s essential to take these aspects into account. It’s advisable to consult your real estate agent when exploring Florida’s most economical beach towns.

3. Titusville

Located in Brevard County, Titusville is a mid-sized city with a population of 49,319 and is renowned for its proximity to Orlando, which is deemed as the most popular tourist destination in the state. If you’re planning to move here with your family, you’ll be delighted to know that there are plenty of fun things to do here. However, before you make the move, it’s crucial to be aware of a few important price-related facts.

Pros and Cons of Living in Titusville

Located in Florida, Titusville may not be as well-known as some of the state’s more popular towns, but that’s precisely what makes it an excellent place to live. Unlike the densely-populated Orlando, Titusville boasts a more serene environment. Plus, the cost of living is only slightly higher than the national average, making it a very comfortable place to call home.

Titusville faces a higher crime rate compared to other affordable beach towns in Florida. The majority of these crimes are minor issues; however, due to its proximity to the beach, there are more significant problems such as drug-related issues. Despite these concerns, Titusville is still worth exploring for those looking for the most affordable beach towns in Florida.

2. Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach, situated in Volusia County and close to the Atlantic Ocean, is a highly sought-after place to reside in Florida. The city boasts a population of 77,958, with many more residing in the surrounding metropolitan area, offering a plethora of exciting and enjoyable activities. To assist you in determining whether it’s a suitable destination for you, let’s delve into its general cost of living.

- Median Home Price: $262,115 per Zillow
- Taxes: Between $920 per $100,000 home value per Smart Asset
- Overall Cost of Living: 2.1% lower than the national average
- Things Daytona Beach is Famous For: High-speed auto events and beautiful art

Pros and Cons of Living in Daytona Beach

With an average of 237 days of sunshine per year, Daytona Beach is a wonderful place to call home. The weather is simply beautiful, and you can take advantage of the many parks, piers, and events available for your enjoyment. Retirees will find this location particularly attractive, as it boasts a large population of “snowbirds” who have relocated to avoid harsh winter weather.

Living in Daytona Beach may not be the best option for individuals who find it challenging to cope with high temperatures and heavy tourist traffic caused by the Daytona 500. Additionally, being located in Florida, the city is susceptible to floods due to hurricanes, and the risk is relatively high. Therefore, if you plan to invest in property in Daytona Beach, it is crucial to consider the potential risks associated with floods and take appropriate measures to mitigate them.

1. Pensacola

Located in the westernmost part of the Florida Panhandle, Pensacola boasts of a distinct atmosphere compared to other coastal cities in the region. With a population of 53,876 inhabitants within the city limits and more in the metropolitan area, it offers a quaint yet bustling environment. If you’re planning to purchase a house in Pensacola, it’s essential to read through the following details to gain insights into its costs.

Pros and Cons of Living in Pensacola

Living in Pensacola offers the benefit of a low cost of living, which is one of the best things about this place. In terms of affordability, Pensacola ticks all the boxes, making it a comfortable and budget-friendly place to reside. Additionally, Pensacola boasts a decent education system, and the local support team strives hard to provide great utilities and other conveniences, making life here even more comfortable.

Although Pensacola is often considered one of the scariest places to live in the state due to its crime problem, it’s important to note that the severity of this issue depends on various factors such as the neighborhood you choose to move into and many more. To ensure the safety of your family and yourself, it’s crucial to speak with a real estate agent before making the move to the area.

Tips for Buying Beach Town Property in Florida

When it comes to finding affordable beach towns in Florida, it’s important to remember that what works for someone else might not work for you. The cheapest option available may not be the best fit based on your unique circumstances. To make the decision-making process easier, keep these tips in mind as you search for the perfect beach property for you.

- Importance of Choosing the Right Location: Make sure you carefully choose the cheapest beach towns in Florida, researching their overall population. Try to find a place that feels comfortable for your specific lifestyle.
- Local Policies and Taxes: Research the different policies and taxes in the region that might impact your finances and lifestyle. For example, you may own multiple large dogs and should do what you can to find a property supporting them.
- Available Local Agents: Try to work with a high-quality local real estate agent whenever purchasing affordable Florida beach towns. You want to find an agent who knows the area innately and who feels comfortable working with you.
- Potential Risks and Challenges: Florida is a beautiful state but pays for its beauty by being hit heavily by hurricanes and floods. It also has a very high heat index that can harm some people. Make sure you’re ready for these challenges before trying to live here.
- Potential Future Value: The value of your home may vary heavily based on multiple factors. Obviously, you can’t tell the future, but you can pay attention to things like changing property taxes. Lower property taxes could result in a higher demand in an area and increased costs.

To make the process easier and prevent long-term issues, it’s crucial to follow these straightforward tips. By doing so, you’ll increase your chances of finding the perfect beachfront property that fits your budget and preferences. Take these tips seriously and enhance your research to discover the best high-quality home that meets your needs.

FAQs on Cheapest Beach Towns in Florida

Q. Is it More Affordable to Live on Florida’s East or West Coast?

In general, living on Florida’s west coast tends to be more cost-effective. The west coast is not as heavily in demand as the east coast and boasts fewer major cities. Consider this factor when making a purchase to ensure you achieve the best possible results.

Q. Where Can You Find the Most Affordable Beachfront Property in Florida?

Deerfield Beach may offer the most budget-friendly beachfront property options in Florida. As a smaller and typically less popular area compared to other cities, it boasts lower real estate costs, making it a more financially accessible place to purchase a home.

Q. Is Investing in a Vacation Home in Florida a Wise Choice?

Investing in a vacation home in Florida can be a savvy financial move for several reasons. Firstly, you can rent it out on platforms like Airbnb when you’re not using it, generating additional income that may even cover its mortgage. Secondly, it provides you and your family with a fantastic retreat.

Q. What are Some Affordable and Safe Beach Towns in Florida for Seniors?

If you’re a senior looking for cozy and budget-friendly places to live in Florida, consider Sanibel, Apalachicola, Islamorada, Captiva, Palm Beach, and Destin. These regions typically offer a more intimate atmosphere compared to larger Florida cities and boast lower crime rates.

Read More: