9 Safest Places to Live in Florida

In recent years, Florida has been an extremely popular destination for those looking for a change of scenery. With lots of benefits and a wide range of things to do, it’s no wonder the Sunshine State is drawing in thousands of new residents each year.

Get ready to explore some of Florida’s safest small communities for the affluent. From coastal towns to pleasant inland locations, there will surely be something for everyone who can afford the lifestyle.

As we examine these communities, we will prioritize things that draw families to small cities and towns.

Some Common Factors
All of the communities described here have certain characteristics in common. Here are a few:

• Taxes. Florida has no state income tax; compare that to the national average of 4.6%. Property taxes, too, come in low, with an average effective rate of 0.83% of property value. The state sales tax rate is 6.0%, and some localities add their own tax of 0.5% to 2.5%, resulting in an average combined rate of 7.05%.
• Climate. The climate of north and central Florida is humid subtropical, and south Florida is tropical in nature. Much of the state, especially the coastal areas, experiences rain and thunderstorms from May through October.

For each community below, we assign a HOMEiA Score, which provides an overall assessment of its safety and appeal as a place to call home.

Here are Top 9 safest places to live in Florida.

1. Sanibel

Sanibel is a small town on Sanibel Island, located in southwest Florida. This area is just outside of Fort Meyers and a three-hour drive from Miami. Sanibel is located off Interstate 75 and is about a 45-minute drive away from the Southwest Florida International Airport.

a. Size and Population

Sanibel has a population of 7,401 (2019 estimate) and an area of just over 33 square miles. The population density is 457 per square mile (2019 estimate).

The population in Sanibel grew by 14.4% from April 2010 through July 2019 (source: U.S. Census Quick Facts), which is above the overall U.S. rate of 6.3%.

b. Median Income, Cost of Living and Housing Market Characteristics

The numbers below (source: U.S. Census, unless otherwise indicated) show the median income, cost of living and the annual spending on housing for owned and rented properties in Sanibel.

SANIBEL MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2019): $108,081

Sanibel Cost of Living, Florida

• 72% Above the U.S. National Average
• 72% Higher than Tampa Bay, Florida
• 8% Lower than New York City, New York
• 61% Higher than Chicago, Illinois

Sanibel Housing Costs

Sanibel shows a home P/E (home price to income) ratio of 6.67, based on the median home value of $721,200 and a median household income of $108,081. The U.S. average is 4.0. Therefore, it is expensive to buy homes in the area.

Sanibel shows an income to rent ratio of 5.83, based on a median household income of $108,081 and an annual spend of $18,540. Therefore, it is affordable to rent properties.

Thirty-four percent of owners in Sanibel are housing cost burdened, which is above the U.S. nationwide rate of 30.2%. This shows housing is expensive for more residents of Sanibel than in the U.S. overall.

In Sanibel, 85.5% of residents own their homes. The median home has 3.9 bedrooms.

Top Neighborhoods in Sanibel, FL:

• Captains Walk (Home Value Range: $100,000 to $1+ million)
  A moderately priced neighborhood.
• Gulf Ridge (Home Value Range: $200,000 to $1.5+ million)
  A luxury neighborhood with single family homes.
• Wulfert (Home Value Range: $200,000 to $1.25+ million)
  An area with plenty of waterfront properties.
• Pelicans Roost Condominiums (Home Value Range: $750,000)
  This community is situated right on the beach.

c. Employment Prospects

The unemployment rate in Sanibel is 6.2%. By comparison, the national average was 3.7% in 2019, but had risen to 14.3% by mid-2020 (largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic). The poverty rate, at 6%, is significantly below the national average of 9.2% in 2019.

Fifty-three percent of the community are seniors, over three times the national average of 16.7%.

Sanibel is a small island and doesn’t have many large companies present in the vicinity. Many residents commute to larger areas like Cape Coral where larger businesses employ thousands of people.

d. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

If you love living within walking distance of the water, Sanibel is the perfect spot. This town is known for:

• Beaches and Waterways. With plenty of sandy beaches and waterways, there’s never a dull moment. The Sanibel Lighthouse is a free landmark and a great way to see the landscape of the island. Plenty of seashells wash up from the Gulf of Mexico, where the waters are known to be mild and warm for most of the year.
• History. The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village is a great way to learn more about the history of Sanibel Island. Discover the evolution of the island with artifacts and buildings dating back to the 1800s.
• Wildlife. There are also plenty of wildlife areas, including the J. N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, where residents can hike or bike along the four-mile path. Kayaking tours are offered if you want a closer look at the amazing wildlife that lives in the area. It’s common to see crocodiles, alligators and lots of birds.

e. Education

Just outside of Sanibel there are many options for colleges and universities. These include Florida Gulf Coast University, Southern Technical College and Barry University (a law school with plenty of campuses).

There are one public school and three private schools in the Sanibel area, based on data from GreatSchools.org.

Overall, Sanibel has an excellent educational infrastructure, better than similarly sized metro areas. The population is more educated than the U.S. average, with 99% having graduated high school and 68% having graduated college.

f. Healthcare and Safety

The closest medical center is the San-Cap Medical Center on Sanibel Island. On the mainland, you can find the HealthPark Medical Center and the Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida.

According to NeighborhoodScout, Sanibel is safer than 77% of U.S. cities.

Sanibel has 0.41 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median rate of 3.78 and the U.S. national median rate of 4.00. It also has 6.08 property crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median of 21.46 and the U.S. national median of 21.00.

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2. Key Biscayne

Key Biscayne is located on an island just outside of Miami. This small, peaceful island is a short drive off Interstate 95. Miami International Airport is about 15 miles away, a drive of up to 45 minutes depending on traffic.

a. Size and Population

Key Biscayne has a population of 12,846 (2019 estimate) and an area just over 1.7 square miles. The population density is 10,302 per square mile (2019 estimate).

The population in Key Biscayne grew by 4.1% from April 2010 through July 2019 (source: U.S. Census Quick Facts), which is below the overall U.S. rate of 6.3%.

b. Median Income, Cost of Living and Housing Market Characteristics

Key Biscayne is one of the wealthiest communities in Florida, with very high housing prices.

The numbers below show the median income, cost of living and the annual spending on housing for owned and rented properties in Key Biscayne.

KEY BISCAYNE MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2019): $151,310

Key Biscayne Cost of Living, Florida.

• 119% above the U.S. National Average
• 80% Higher than Miami, Florida
• 17% Higher than New York City, New York
• 105% Higher than Chicago, Illinois

Key Biscayne Housing Costs

Key Biscayne shows a home P/E (home price to income) ratio of 8, based on the median home value of $1,211,000 and a median household income of $151,310. The U.S. average is 4.0. Therefore, it is very expensive to buy homes in the area.

Key Biscayne shows an income to rent ratio of 4.95, based on a median household income of $151,310 and an annual spend of $30,576. Therefore, it is affordable to rent properties.

Forty-two percent of owners in Key Biscayne are housing cost burdened, which is significantly above the U.S. nationwide rate of 30.2%. This shows housing is expensive for many more residents of Key Biscayne than in the U.S. overall.

In Key Biscayne, 69.5% of residents own their homes. The median home has 3.1 bedrooms.

Top Neighborhoods in Key Biscayne, FL:

Because this area is so small, there are really no defined neighborhoods. Most houses are found on the west side of the main road that runs through the island, and some additional homes are found on the east side. The home value range is between $300,000 and $10+ million.

c. Employment Prospects

The unemployment rate in Key Biscayne is 5.4%. By comparison, the national average was 3.7% in 2019, but had risen to 14.3% by mid-2020 (largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic). The poverty rate, at 5%, is significantly below the national average of 9.2% in 2019.

Seventeen percent of the community are seniors, slightly above the U.S. average of 16.7%. Key Biscayne has a labor force participation rate of 58%, which is below the national average of 61.7% in 2020.

There are no major employment opportunities on the island of Key Biscayne besides a hotel and some restaurants. Many residents make the 15-minute drive to the city of Miami and work there. Plenty of businesses, banks and major companies have bases in Miami.

d. Unique Attributes and Lifestylec

Key Biscayne is a small town located very close to major cities. This town is known for:

• Proximity to Miami. Key Biscayne is less than 20 minutes away from Miami, where there are plenty of things to do during the day. With world-famous restaurants and shopping districts, you will never get tired of trying new things! The nightlife in Miami is incredible as well, featuring plenty of bars and clubs where you can dance the night away.
• Parks and Beaches. Key Biscayne is extremely small and located on an island outside of Miami. To get to the town, residents must pass through Crandon Park, a popular beach area with a golf course. South of the town is Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. This area is great for those looking to escape into nature. The Cape Florida Lighthouse is located here and is a picture-perfect destination for those looking for something to do on the island.
• Delicious Cuisine. There is no shortage of Cuban coffee and sandwiches in the area, so you’ll always have your café con leche fix right at your fingertips.

e. Education

There are many major public and private universities located in Miami, just outside of Key Biscayne. University of Miami, Miami-Dade College and Florida International University are 3 popular schools that offer a variety of programs for students from all over the world.

There are 2 public schools and 8 private schools in the Key Biscayne area, based on data from GreatSchools.org.

Overall, Key Biscayne has an excellent educational infrastructure, better than similarly sized metro areas.

The population is more educated than the U.S. average, with 98% having graduated high school and 82% having graduated college.

f. Healthcare and Safety

There are no major hospitals or health facilities located in Key Biscayne; the closest hospital is Mercy Hospital, located in Miami. This medical facility is only a 15-minute drive away from the center of Key Biscayne.

According to NeighborhoodScout, Key Biscayne is safer than 44% of U.S. cities.

Key Biscayne has 0.47 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median rate of 3.78 and the U.S. national median rate of 4.00. It also has 13.62 property crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median of 21.46 and the U.S. national median of 21.00.

It is to be noted that while Key Biscayne seems to have a higher crime rate than some of the cities we list, the overwhelming majority of incidents are property crimes. Violent crimes are only 3.3% of the total number.

3. Naples

Naples is located in south Florida on the west coast of the state. The closest major road is Interstate 75 and the Naples Airport is the major airline hub of the area.

a. Size and Population

Naples has a population of 22,088 (2019 estimate) and an area of just under 16.5 square miles. The population density is 1,797 per square mile (2019 estimate).

The population in Naples grew by 13.2% from April 2010 through July 2019 (source: U.S. Census Quick Facts), which is above the overall U.S. rate of 6.3%.

b. Median Income, Cost of Living and Housing Market Characteristics

The numbers below show the median income, cost of living and the annual spending on housing for owned and rented properties in Naples.

NAPLES MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2019): $107,013

Naples Cost of Living, Florida.

• 12% Above the U.S. National Average
• 12% Higher than Tampa Bay, Florida
• 40% Lower than New York City, New York
• 5% Lower than Chicago, Illinois

Naples Housing Costs

Naples shows a home P/E (home price to income) ratio of 9.23, based on the median home value of $988,500 and a median household income of $107,013. The U.S. average is 4.0. Therefore, it is very expensive to buy homes in the area.

Naples shows an income to rent ratio of 6.57, based on a median household income of $107,013 and an annual spend of $16,284. Therefore, it is affordable to rent properties.

Forty percent of owners in Naples are housing cost burdened, which is significantly above the U.S. nationwide rate of 30.2%. This shows housing is expensive for many more residents of Naples than in the U.S. overall.

In Naples, 78.3% of residents own their homes. The median home has 3.3 bedrooms.

Top Neighborhoods in Naples, FL:

• Bear’s Paw (Home Value Range: $250,000 to $5 million)
  Bear’s Paw has a small community feel.
• Coquina Sands (Home Value Range: $2 million to $12+ million)
  Coquina Sands is a beautiful waterfront neighborhood.
• Park Shore (Home Value Range: $400,000 to $15 million)
  Located in North Naples with many bayside homes.
• Sun Terrace (Home Value Range: $200,000 to $1.2+ million)
  An inland neighborhood.

c. Employment Prospects

The unemployment rate in Naples is 5.6%. By comparison, the national average was 3.7% in 2019, but had risen to 14.3% by mid-2020 (largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic). The poverty rate, at 8%, is below the national average of 9.2% in 2019.

Forty-seven percent of the community are seniors, almost three times the U.S. average of 16.7%. Naples also has a low labor force participation rate of 38%, significantly below the national average of 61.7%.

There are no major business hubs in Naples, but many find employment opportunities at the airport, country clubs and recreational areas in the town.

Naples residents have an average commute time of 19 minutes.

d. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

Naples is a great town with plenty of things to do. This town is known for:

• Beaches and Sunsets. Check out the beautiful beaches and lovely sunsets all year round. The pier is a staple in the area and iconic to residents and those visiting. Many visit the pier to go fishing and watch the dolphins.
• Nature. There are plenty of things to do for the nature lover in your life, including the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida and the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve.
• Museums. On top of the gorgeous sandy beaches, there are also plenty of museums to visit, like the Revs Institute, the Baker Museum and the Golisano Children’s Museum.
• Family Activities. Tin City is a great area that was a clam shelling and oyster processing plant in the 1920s. Since then, it’s been repurposed as a unique shopping area with plenty of stores, restaurants and waterfront views. The Sun-N-Fun Lagoon is a water park with plenty to do, the perfect destination for thrill-lovers all year ’round. With 5 water slides and tons of other activities, this is a great place to bring friends and family of any age.

e. Education

There are no major colleges or universities located in Naples, but in under 20 minutes you can reach a Keiser University campus, as well as a Florida Southwestern State College campus.

There are 25 public schools and over 40 private schools in the Naples area, based on data from GreatSchools.org.

Overall, Naples has an above-average educational infrastructure, compared to similarly sized metro areas. Naples is above the national average with a 95% high school graduation rate.

f. Healthcare and Safety

The NCH Baker Hospital is located in the heart of Naples, with plenty of smaller healthcare facilities located around it.

According to NeighborhoodScout, Naples is safer than 40% of U.S. cities.

Naples has 0.54 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median rate of 3.78 and the U.S. national median rate of 4.00. It also has 14.67 property crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median of 21.46 and the U.S. national median of 21.00.

It is to be noted that while Naples seems to have a higher crime rate than some of the cities we list, the overwhelming majority of incidents are property crimes. Violent crimes are only 3.6% of the total number.

10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Florida

With year-round warm weather and over 8,000 miles of coastline, it’s no wonder Florida is a prime vacation destination. Filled with wildlife, beaches, lakes, rivers, amusement parks, diverse entertainment options and much more, the population of Florida is growing with people that want to call Florida “home,” soak up the sun…

4. Weston

Weston is located about an hour north of Miami and about 30 minutes west of Ft. Lauderdale. It’s found just off of Highway 27 and a short drive away from Interstate 95. Weston is only 30 minutes away from the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, and under an hour away from the major airline hub, Miami International Airport.

a. Size and Population

Weston has a population of 71,166 (2019 estimate) and an area of just over 26 square miles. The population density is 2,894 per square mile (2019 estimate).

The population in Weston grew by 8.8% from April 2010 through July 2019 (source: U.S. Census Quick Facts), which is above the overall U.S. rate of 6.3%.

b. Median Income, Cost of Living and Housing Market Characteristics

Weston is an affluent community with relatively high home values.

The numbers below show the median income, cost of living and the annual spending on housing for owned and rented properties in Weston.

WESTON MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2019): $107,908

Weston Cost of Living, Florida.

• 36% Above the U.S. National Average
• 11% Higher than Miami, Florida
• 27% Lower than New York City, New York
• 28% Higher than Chicago, Illinois

Weston Housing Costs

Weston shows a home P/E (home price to income) ratio of 4.46, based on the median home value of $481,800 and a median household income of $107,908. The U.S. average is 4.0. Therefore, it is expensive to buy homes in the area.

Weston shows an income to rent ratio of 4.11, based on a median household income of $107,908 and an annual spend of $26,256. Therefore, it is affordable to rent properties.

Forty-one percent of owners in Weston are housing cost burdened, which is significantly above the U.S. nationwide rate of 30.2%. This shows housing is expensive for many more residents of Weston than in the U.S. overall.

In Weston, 73.8% of residents own their home. The median home has 4.2 bedrooms.

Top Neighborhoods in Weston, FL:

• The Ridges (Home Value Range: $350,000 to $900,000)
  A large, gated community with single-family homes.
• Windmill Reserve (Home Value Range: $300,000 to $2.5 million)
  An upscale, waterfront estate property.
• The Savannah Community (Home Value Range: $350,000 to $1 million)
  A large neighborhood with over 3,000 homes.
• The Lakes (Home Value Range: $300,000 to $900,000)
  An affordable family neighborhood.

c. Employment Prospects

The unemployment rate in Weston is 9%. By comparison, the national average was 3.7% in 2019, but had risen to 14.3% by mid-2020 (largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic). The poverty rate, at 7%, is below the national average of 9.2% in 2019.

Many residents of Weston commute to the larger coastal cities where more businesses are present. There are plenty of hotels and resorts in the area, and many residents work in the tourism or hospitality sector.

Weston residents have an average commute time of 29 minutes.

d. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

Weston is a beautiful, quiet town, located amid lots of canals, but it isn’t too far from major cities if you’re looking for a change of scenery. This town is known for:

• Wildlife and Nature. Weston is situated directly east of the Everglades and Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area. There are plenty of beautiful natural areas and there’s no shortage of wildlife just minutes from the town’s center. With over 10 parks, trails and nature preserves, there are plenty of things to do outside throughout the year. The closest beach is about 20 miles away, so you’ll always have somewhere to relax and listen to the waves.
• Gambling. The AAA Four Diamond-rated Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is about 30 minutes away and features amazing pools, world-class bars, top-notch restaurants and, of course, hundreds of gambling opportunities.
• Proximity to Miami. If you’re looking take a day trip, Miami is only about an hour away and has an endless number of things to do, including beaches, bars, restaurants, clubs and shopping.

e. Education

There are no major colleges or universities located in Weston, but slightly further out there are plenty of options. In under an hour’s drive, you can reach Strayer University and even the University of Miami.

There are 10 public schools and 18 private schools in the Weston area, based on data from GreatSchools.org.

Overall, Weston has a superior educational infrastructure, better than similarly sized metro areas. The population is more educated than the U.S. average, with 97% having graduated high school and 67% having graduated college.

f. Healthcare and Safety

There are two major hospitals located just outside of Weston. Memorial Hospital Miramar is just south of Weston and Mercy Hospital is northeast.

According to NeighborhoodScout, Weston is safer than 80% of U.S. cities.

Weston has 0.49 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median rate of 3.78 and the U.S. national median rate of 4.00. It also has 5.37 property crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median of 21.46 and the U.S. national median of 21.00.

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Miami is the only major U.S. city to have been founded by a woman. Arriving in 1891, native Clevelander, Julia Tuttle bought several hundred acres along the bank of the Miami River in an area then known as Biscayne Bay. Her passion to build a community in her newly found paradise…

5. Venice, Florida

Venice is located on the west coast of Florida, a little over an hour south of Tampa. Venice is right off of the major highway, Interstate 75. The Venice Municipal Airport is located in the town, and the Tampa International Airport, a major airline hub, is only about 80 miles away.

a. Size and Population

Venice has a population of 23,985 (2019 estimate) and an area of 16.7 square miles. The population density is 1,591 per square mile (2019 estimate).

The population in Venice grew by 15.3% from April 2010 through July 2019 (source: U.S. Census Quick Facts), which is above the overall U.S. rate of 6.3%.

b. Median Income, Cost of Living and Housing Market Characteristics

Venice has a very high number of seniors. It also has high housing prices compared to median income.

The numbers below show the median income, cost of living and the annual spending on housing for owned and rented properties in Venice.

VENICE MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2019): $60,086

Venice Cost of Living, Florida.

• 1.3% Above the U.S. National Average
• 1% Higher than Tampa Bay, Florida
• 46% Lower than New York City, New York
• 5% Lower than Chicago, Illinois

Venice Housing Costs

Venice shows a home P/E (home price to income) ratio of 4.2, based on the median home value of $252,200 and a median household income of $60,086. The U.S. average is 4.0. Therefore, it is slightly expensive to buy homes in the area.

Venice shows an income to rent ratio of 3.7, based on a median household income of $60,086 and an annual spend of $16,260. Therefore, it is affordable to rent properties.

Thirty-three percent of owners in Venice are housing cost burdened, which is above the U.S. nationwide rate of 30.2%. This shows housing is expensive for more residents of Venice than in the U.S. overall.

In Venice, 75.8% of residents own their home. The median home has 2.8 bedrooms.

Top Neighborhoods in Venice, FL:

• The Grand Palm (Home Value Range: $300,000 to $1 million)
  This is a great area for families.
• Venice Farms (Home Value Range: $200,000 to $3+ million)
  Great for large properties used for farmlands.
• The Island of Venice (Home Value Range: $100,000 to $700,000+)
  A popular area where many special events take place.
• Venice Golf and Country (Home Value Range: $175,000 to $800,000)
  This is a private neighborhood situated on a golf country club.

c. Employment Prospects

The unemployment rate in Venice is 12.8%. By comparison, the national average was 3.7% in 2019, but had risen to 14.3% by mid-2020 (largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic). The poverty rate, at 8%, is below the national average of 9.2% in 2019.

Fifty-six percent of the community are seniors, substantially above the U.S. average of 16.7%. In addition, Venice has a labor force participation rate of only 31%, which is approximately half of the national average of 61.7% in 2020.

There are no major employers in the area of Venice, but smaller businesses employ some residents. Being a real estate agent is a great job to have in this area, as well as working at or managing country clubs.

Venice residents have an average commute time of 21 minutes.

d. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

Venice is a hidden paradise on the west coast of Florida with tons of fun things to do. This area is known for:

• Leisure Activities. This area has a large retirement community, and its many activities include golfing, tennis and horseback riding.
• The Beaches. Venice Beach is world-famous for the abundance of shark teeth that wash up on the shore each year. It is also a certified Blue Wave Beach. This means that human health and environmental protection are a priority in the area, and the beaches will always be incredibly clean.
• Historic Downtown Area. Venice also has a lovely downtown area featuring beautiful northern Italian architecture reminiscent of the Italian city of the same name.
• Wildlife. It’s not uncommon to see plenty of different types of wildlife in the town of Venice. Nesting sea turtles are common in this area and are often spotted in large numbers between May and October. If you see a nest, don’t disturb the babies!

e. Education

To find a college or university, residents will have to travel out of the Venice area. Sarasota is about 45 minutes north of Venice and is home to New College of Florida, Ringling College of Art and Design and a few major public university campuses.

There are 8 public schools and 23 private schools in the Venice area, based on data from GreatSchools.org.

Overall, Venice has an above-average educational infrastructure, compared to similarly sized metro areas.

The population is educated, with 95% having graduated high school.

f. Healthcare and Safety

There are two major healthcare facilities located in Venice: SMH Care Center at Venice and Venice Regional Bayfront Health.

According to NeighborhoodScout, Venice is safer than 48% of U.S. cities.

Venice has one violent crime per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median rate of 3.78 and the U.S. national median rate of 4.00. It also has 11.88 property crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median of 21.46 and the U.S. national median of 21.00.

It is to be noted that while Venice seems to have a higher crime rate than some of the cities we list, the overwhelming majority of incidents are property crimes. Violent crimes are only 7.8% of the total number.

6. Satellite Beach

This coastal town is located on an island just under an hour south of Kennedy Space Center. Situated next to Patrick Air Force Base, Satellite Beach is great for those who love to relax by the water. Satellite Beach is 11 miles from Melbourne International Airport, and 60 miles away from the major hub, Orlando International Airport.

a. Size and Population

Satellite Beach has a population of 11,130 (2019 estimate). It occupies an area just under 4.3 square miles. The population density is 3,810 per square mile (2019 estimate).

The population in Satellite Beach grew by 10.4% from April 2010 through July 2019 (source: U.S. Census Quick Facts), which is above the overall U.S. rate of 6.3%.

b. Median Income, Cost of Living and Housing Market Characteristics

The numbers below show the median income, cost of living and the annual spending on housing for owned and rented properties in Satellite Beach.

SATELLITE BEACH MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2019): $79,082

Satellite Beach Cost of Living, Florida.

• 12% Above the U.S. National Average
• 7% Higher than Orlando, Florida
• 40% Lower than New York City, New York
• 5% Higher than Chicago, Illinois

Satellite Beach Housing Costs

Satellite Beach shows a home P/E (home price to income) ratio of 3.80, based on the median home value of $300,200 and a median household income of $79,082. The U.S. average is 4.0. Therefore, it is affordable to buy homes in the area.

Satellite Beach shows an income to rent ratio of 4.46, based on a median household income of $79,082 and an annual spend of $17,712. Therefore, it is affordable to rent properties.

Thirty percent of owners in Satellite Beach are housing cost burdened, which is comparable to the U.S. nationwide rate of 30.2%. This shows housing is as affordable for residents of Satellite Beach as it is in the U.S. overall.

Eighty percent of Satellite Beach residents own their homes. The median home has 3.8 bedrooms.

Top Neighborhoods in Satellite Beach, FL:

The best neighborhoods to live in often depend on commute times and school districts. There are over 20 major neighborhoods in the Satellite Beach area, but in general, the following neighborhoods stand out:

• Emerald Isles (Home Value Range: $200,000 to $2 million)
  This neighborhood is close to the local high school.
• Gulfstream Beach (Home Value Range: $200,000 to $1.5 million)
  Gulfstream Beach is within walking distance of the shore, a great option for people who value access to the waterfront.
• The Canal (Home Value Range: $300,000 to $1.5 million)
  This community lines up with the canal. Homeowners with boats love this area.
• De Soto Park (Home Value Range: $200,000 to $1.5 million)
  This is a highly sought-after community in the center of the island.

c. Employment Prospects

The unemployment rate in Satellite Beach is 5.9%. By comparison, the national average was 3.7% in 2019, but it had risen to 14.3% by mid-2020 (largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic). The poverty level in Satellite Beach, at 4%, was significantly below the national average of 9.2% in 2019.

Many people living in Satellite Beach work for Patrick Air Force Base, or for aerospace companies located in Melbourne, a short drive away. There is a high need for electricians, engineers and technicians of all kinds. Viera is also a short drive away and offers additional employment opportunities.

d. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

Satellite Beach is a laid-back town with plenty of culture, arts and things to see. The town is known for:

• Art and Culture. Satellite Beach is home to the Chabad of the Space and Treasure Coast. This organization puts on a Hanukkah celebration and parade each year, which is a huge hit for those in the area. With free traditional Jewish food and a menorah lighting, this celebration is a great event for those looking to get in touch with their Jewish heritage.
• Nature Walks and Seaside. The area has several parks and recreational facilities for those who enjoy hiking and exploring nature. There are plenty of different types of plants and animals to see, such as bald eagles and turtles that frequent the seaside areas.
• Family Entertainment and Sports. This unique town also contains a public skate park, a dog park, a frisbee field, a soccer field and a volleyball court. The beaches are fit with plenty of wildlife, and residents are often found lounging on the sand enjoying the peaceful nature around them.

e. Education

Florida Institute of Technology is located in Melbourne, Florida, just 20 minutes away from Satellite Beach. This private school is made up of the College of Aeronautics, the College of Engineering and Science, the College of Business and the College of Psychology and Liberal Arts.

There are five public schools and 11 private schools in the Satellite Beach area, based on data from GreatSchools.org.

Overall, Satellite Beach has a great educational infrastructure, on par with or better than similarly sized metro areas.

The population is educated, with 95% having graduated high school.

f. Healthcare and Safety

There are two major hospitals located less than 15 miles from Satellite Beach. Just 13 miles north is the Cape Canaveral Hospital, and about 12 miles south is the Palm Bay Hospital.

According to NeighborhoodScout, Satellite Beach is safer than 74% of U.S. cities.

Satellite Beach has 0.99 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median rate of 3.78 and the U.S. national median rate of 4.00. It also has 6.20 property crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median of 21.46 and the U.S. national median of 21.00.

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7. North Palm Beach

North Palm Beach is located just 20 minutes north of West Palm Beach and is right off the major highway, Interstate 95. The closest small airport is located in West Palm Beach, whereas the drive to Miami International Airport can be almost 90 minutes.

a. Size and Population

North Palm Beach has a population of 13,127 (2019 estimate) and an area just under 5.3 square miles. The population density is 4,021 per square mile (2019 estimate).

The population in North Palm Beach grew by 9.2% from April 2010 through July 2019 (source: U.S. Census Quick Facts), which is above the overall U.S. rate of 6.3%.

b. Median Income, Cost of Living and Housing Market Characteristics

The numbers below show the median income, cost of living and the annual spending on housing for owned and rented properties in North Palm Beach.

NORTH PALM BEACH MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2019): $72,027

North Palm Beach Cost of Living, Florida.

• 20% Above the U.S. National Average
• 3% Lower than Miami, Florida
• 36% Lower than New York City, New York
• 12% Higher than Chicago, Illinois

North Palm Beach Housing Costs

Satellite Beach shows a home P/E (home price to income) ratio of 4.56, based on the median home value of $328,100 and a median household income of $72,027. The U.S. average is 4.0. Therefore, it is expensive to buy homes in the area.

North Palm Beach shows an income to rent ratio of 3.93, based on a median household income of $72,027 and an annual spend of $18,312. Therefore, it is affordable to rent properties.

Thirty-seven percent of owners in North Palm Beach are housing cost burdened, which is significantly above the U.S. nationwide rate of 30.2%. This shows housing is expensive for many more residents of North Palm Beach than in the U.S. overall.

In North Palm Beach, 75.8% of residents own their home. The median home has 3.1 bedrooms.

Top Neighborhoods in North Palm Beach, FL:

• Juno Ridge (Home Value Range: $200,000 to $3+ million)
  Found just off Highway A1A.
• Lost Tree Village (Home Value Range: $10 million to $23+ million)
  This neighborhood is located on a small island.
• The Lighthouse Drive (Home Value Range: $500,000 to $1.5 million)
  This area is inland of the coast but located on many canals.

c. Employment Prospects

The unemployment rate in North Palm Beach is 6.5%. By comparison, the national average was 3.7% in 2019, but had risen to 14.3% by mid-2020 (largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic). The poverty rate, at 9%, was below the national average of 9.2%.

Thirty-two percent of the community are seniors, above the U.S. average of 16.7%. Also, North Palm Beach has a labor force participation rate of 56%, which is almost 10% below the national average of 61.7% in 2020.

Most residents of North Palm Beach commute to other major cities for work. West Palm Beach is the closest major city and is only a 20-minute drive. The downtown area has many office buildings that house banks, businesses and more.

North Palm Beach residents have an average commute time of 20 minutes.

d. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

North Palm Beach is a small but lively town located close to other major cities. This town is known for:

• Proximity to West Palm Beach. This is a great place for those who want to live in a quiet area, but also want to experience city life every once in a while! West Palm Beach is a short drive away and is great for those looking to experience some nightlife. There are plenty of things to do, including visiting breweries, comedy clubs, wine bars and dance clubs. Otherwise, many people enjoy their quiet boat lives in North Palm Beach.
• Outdoor Activities. Being on the water, it’s no secret that this town also has plenty of outdoor activities to do. Many go boating, kayaking, paddle boarding and even fishing. Relaxing on the beach is another great activity. Listening to the waves and feeling the sand on your toes just never gets old! The Palm Beach area in general is also known to have some good waves throughout the year, so surfers would enjoy this small community as well.

e. Education

There are two private colleges located under 30 minutes away from North Palm Beach: Southeastern College and Palm Beach Atlantic University. Florida Atlantic University is a popular four-year institution about 34 miles away.

There are one public school and seven private schools in the North Palm Beach area, based on data from GreatSchools.org.

Overall, North Palm Beach has an average educational infrastructure, much smaller than similarly sized metro areas.

The population is educated, with 95% having graduated high school.

f. Healthcare and Safety

There are plenty of medical care facilities in the area, including the Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center and Kindred Hospital, both located less than a 20-minute drive from North Palm Beach.

According to NeighborhoodScout, North Palm Beach is safer than 62% of U.S. cities.

North Palm Beach has 0.91 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median rate of 3.78 and the U.S. national median rate of 4.00. It also has 8.68 property crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median of 21.46 and the U.S. national median of 21.00.

8. Parkland

Parkland is located in south Florida, about 40 minutes north of Ft. Lauderdale. This town is a small community a few minutes off the main highway, Interstate 95. The closest major airport is located in Ft. Lauderdale and is about 30 miles away from the center of Parkland.

a. Size and Population

Parkland has a population of 34,170 (2019 estimate) and an area just over 14.35 square miles. The population density is 2,733 per square mile (2019 estimate).

The population in Parkland grew by 51.8% from April 2010 through July 2019 (source: U.S. Census Quick Facts), which is above the overall U.S. rate of 6.3%.

b. Median Income, Cost of Living and Housing Market Characteristics

Parkland is one of the more affluent communities in Florida with high home values.

The numbers below show the median income, cost of living and the annual spending on housing for owned and rented properties in Parkland.

PARKLAND MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2019): $154,844

Parkland Cost of Living, Florida.

• 58% Above the U.S. National Average
• 29% Higher Than Miami, Florida
• 15% Lower Than New York City, New York
• 48% Higher Than Chicago, Illinois

Parkland Housing Costs

Parkland shows a home P/E (home price to income) ratio of 3.95, based on the median home value of $611,800 and a median household income of $154,844. The U.S. average is 4.0. Therefore, it is affordable to buy homes in the area.

Parkland shows an income to rent ratio of 5.29, based on a median household income of $154,844 and an annual spend of $29,268. Therefore, it is affordable to rent properties in Parkland.

Forty-five percent of residents in Parkland are housing cost burdened, which is significantly above the U.S. nationwide rate of 30.2%. This shows housing is expensive for many more residents of Parkland than in the U.S. overall.

In Parkland, 82.7% percent of residents own their homes. The median home has 4.6 bedrooms.

Top Neighborhoods in Parkland, FL:

• Meadow Run (Home Value Range: $200,000 to $2 million)
  Lovely neighborhood in the southern Parkland area.
• Estates of Pinetree (Home Value Range: $500,000 to $3+ million)
  A large neighborhood with single-family homes.
• Watercrest (Home Value Range: $200,000 to $2 million)
  Most homes have a view of Watercrest Lake.
• Fox Ridge (Home Value Range: $200,000 to $1+ million)
  Located among plenty of canals.

c. Employment Prospects

The unemployment rate in Parkland is 6.6%. By comparison, the national average was 3.7% in 2019, but had risen to 14.3% by mid-2020 (largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic). The poverty rate, at 6%, is lower than the national average of 9.2% in 2019.

Despite the affluence, Parkland is a relatively young and working community; only 7% of the community are seniors. The labor force participation rate is 71%, higher than nationally.

Many Parkland residents commute to larger cities such as Boca Raton and Pompano Beach to work. Both of these areas are just under 30 minutes away. These larger towns are major hubs for business and banking systems, as well as other companies.

Parkland residents have an average commute time of 28 minutes.

d. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

Parkland is small but jam-packed with plenty to do. This town is known for:

• Leisure Activities. Close by are the Osprey Point Golf Course and Quiet Waters Park, where different kinds of watersports are a popular pastime. Even though Parkland is located inland, the closest beach is still only 30 minutes away.
• Gambling. If you’re looking to spend some cash, the Seminole Casino Coconut Creek is only a 10-minute drive.
• Wildlife and Nature. Parkland is located directly east of some of the most popular nature preserve and wildlife management areas. Highlights include Butterfly World and the Sawgrass Wildlife and Nature Center.
• Food and Drink. The area is home to plenty of amazing restaurants and breweries, so the foodie in your life will never be bored! Try a latte from the Carmela Coffee Company or plan a romantic date night at the Déjà Blue restaurant.

e. Education

There are no major colleges or universities located in Parkland, but there are plenty as you move closer to the coast. Everglades University is less than 18 miles away, and there is a Florida Atlantic University campus just outside of Boca Raton, only a 25-minute drive.

There are 5 public schools and 8 private schools in the Parkland area, based on data from GreatSchools.org.

Overall, Parkland has a superior educational infrastructure, better than similarly sized metro areas. The population is more educated than the U.S. average, with 97% having graduated high school and 65% having graduated college.

f. Healthcare and Safety

There are two major medical centers outside of Parkland. Broward Health Coral Springs is south of Parkland, and the West Boca Medical Center is north.

According to NeighborhoodScout, Parkland is safer than 79% of U.S. cities.

Parkland has 0.29 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median rate of 3.78 and the U.S. national median rate of 4.00. It also has 5.79 property crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median of 21.46 and the U.S. national median of 21.00.

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9. Winter Springs

Winter Springs is located in central Florida, about 30 minutes north of Orlando. The area is connected by Highway 17-92 and SR 417. The closest major airport is the Orlando International Airport, located south of Winter Springs, which is only about a 30-minute drive without traffic.

a. Size and Population

Winter Springs has a population of 37,312 (2019 estimate) and an area just under 15 square miles. The population density is 2,511 per square mile (2019 estimate).

The population in Winter Springs grew by 12% from April 2010 through July 2019 (source: U.S. Census Quick Facts), which is above the overall U.S. rate of 6.3%.

b. Median Income, Cost of Living and Housing Market Characteristics

The numbers below show the median income, cost of living and the annual spending on housing for owned and rented properties in Winter Springs.

WINTER SPRINGS MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2019): $71,898

Winter Springs Cost of Living, Florida.

• 9% Above the U.S. National Average
• 5% Higher than Orlando, Florida
• 42% Lower than New York City, New York
• 2% Higher than Chicago, Illinois

Winter Springs Housing Costs

Winter Springs shows a home P/E (home price to income) ratio of 3.43, based on the median home value of $246,500 and a median household income of $71,898. The U.S. average is 4.0. Therefore, it is affordable to buy homes in the area.

Winter Springs shows an income to rent ratio of 4.76, based on a median household income of $71,898 and an annual spend of $15,120. Therefore, it is affordable to rent properties.

Thirty-two percent of owners in Winter Springs are housing cost burdened, which is just above the U.S. nationwide rate of 30.2%. This shows housing is expensive for more residents of Winter Springs than in the U.S. overall.

In Winter Springs, 77.4% of residents own their homes. The median home has 3.8 bedrooms.

Top Neighborhoods in Winter Springs, FL:

• Avery Park (Home Value Range: $200,000 to $800,000)
  Tons of neo-traditional architecture.
• Bear Gully Pointe (Home Value Range: $150,000 to $750,000+)
  A gated community with plenty of custom homes.
• Eagle’s Watch (Home Value Range: $200,000 to $700,000)
  More moderately priced homes.
• Oak Forest (Home Value Range: $150,000 to $750,000)
  A large subdivision.

c. Employment Prospects

The unemployment rate in Winter Springs is 12%. By comparison, the national average was 3.7% in 2019, but had risen to 14.3% by mid-2020 (largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic). The poverty rate, at 9%, is around the national average of 9.2% in 2019.

Many Winter Springs residents commute to other areas to work, such as Maitland, Winter Park or even Orlando. Maitland is home to large technology companies like Electronic Arts, whereas Orlando is a hub for many major Fortune 500 companies.

Winter Springs residents have an average commute time of 27 minutes.

d. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

Winter Springs is a medium-sized town with a large emphasis on community events. This town is known for:

• Seasonal Celebrations. Each year the city organizes a Festival of the Arts, a Hometown Harvest Festival, a Winter Wonderland Celebration and even the Scottish Highland Games.
• Outdoor Activities. There is no shortage of outdoor activities, with plenty of trails, parks and nature walks. A short drive south of Winter Springs is the Cady Way Trail, a scenic, paved bike trail popular with cyclists and runners. Lake Jessup is located directly north of Winter Springs and is a great location for those looking to take in some lush wildlife and beautiful nature.
• Theme Parks and Tourism. Winter Springs is just 45 minutes away from all four Disney parks, Disney Springs, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and City Walk. There are plenty more things to do in the Orlando area, including trying your hand at mini golf, putting your knowledge to the test in an escape room, trying out the bars and restaurants near International Drive and even “resort hopping,” as the locals call it!

e. Education

Winter Springs is located less than 30 minutes away from the University of Central Florida. In 2020 UCF was named the biggest university in the country based on student population. The University of Central Florida is home to over 200 degree programs, 13 colleges and more than 70,000 students.

There are 9 public schools and 18 private schools in the Winter Springs area, based on data from GreatSchools.org.

Overall, Winter Springs has a good educational infrastructure, better than or comparable with similarly sized metro areas. The population is more educated than the U.S. average, with 95% having graduated from high school.

f. Healthcare and Safety

There are two major hospitals located just outside of Winter Springs. The Orlando Health South Seminole Hospital is west of the town, and Advent Health Hospital is southeast.

According to NeighborhoodScout, Winter Springs is safer than 70% of U.S. cities.

Winter Springs has 1.23 violent crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median rate of 3.78 and the U.S. national median rate of 4.00. It also has 6.67 property crimes per 1,000 residents, significantly below Florida’s statewide median of 21.46 and the U.S. national median of 21.00.

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CONCLUSION

There are tons of small communities all over Florida that are incredibly safe and have endless activities. Even though beaches and waterfront areas are prevalent in many of these towns, don’t think that the water is the only draw. From hikes at nature preserves to roller coasters in Orlando, the Sunshine State has plenty to offer.

Bonus: Our Overall Observations Regarding the Cities
Several of the communities described above display certain characteristics which may set them apart from average small cities in the U.S.:

• A. Many of the communities discussed above are populated by affluent retirees and others who do not depend on a job for income. This can skew certain statistics, bringing down the median income and making housing appear unaffordable.
• B. There are several communities where the labor force participation rate is significantly below the U.S. national rate. While this can sometimes signify high unemployment rates, in these cases it points to large proportions of retirees and households affluent enough to live on one income.
• C. Home prices are significantly above the national average in Naples, Key Biscayne and Sanibel. The other communities are more affordable for homeowners.
• D. All the cities analyzed were affordable for renters.

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