7 Best Places to Live in Florida

With a population increase of more than 900 new residents per day, the state of Florida continues to attract newcomers with its year-round warm weather, pristine beaches on both its Atlantic and Gulf coasts, and diverse lifestyles. Thanks to a business-friendly government and no state income tax, the Sunshine State is projected to reach 23.5 million residents by the end of calendar year 2025. Florida truly has it all – from coastal living to cultural diversity and economic opportunity, the state offers something for everyone seeking a warm, fresh start in a vibrant, growth-minded environment.

Florida was founded on March 3, 1845, when it became America’s 27th state. Before achieving statehood, Florida was a Spanish territory for much of its early history, then became a U.S. territory in 1821 following the Adams-Onís Treaty between Spain and the United States. The state’s nod to its Spanish heritage remains very strong, with distinctive communities (particularly in South Florida) prominently representing various Hispanic nationalities.

From the Panhandle to the Palmetto, from the Keys to Kissimmee, it’s nearly impossible to not find a favorite spot in Florida. Where, though, are the best places to live in the Sunshine State? Below we break out the top seven locales you could consider calling your next home.

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1. Orlando

Orlando is associated by many at first with its abundance of world-famous theme parks. Beyond the thrills and mouse ears, however, the city features a surprisingly diverse economy, growing cultural scene, rapidly growing set of suburbs and central location providing easy access to both Florida coasts within an hour.

A. Size and Population

Orlando has approximately 320,000 residents (2024) within its city limits, while the greater metropolitan area holds over 2.6 million people and counting.

The population grew by approximately 11% from 2020 through 2024, significantly above the overall U.S. growth rate, as Florida, and particularly Osceola County, remained open for business during the pandemic.

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

ORLANDO MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2024): $62,500

Orlando Cost of Living:

• 10% Higher than the U.S. National Average
• 5% Lower than Tampa
• 25% Lower than Naples
• 15% Higher than Jacksonville

Orlando Housing Costs

• Median Home Value: $369,000
• Annual Spend for Homeowners: $24,000
• Annual Spend for Renters: $19,200

With a home price to income ratio of 5.90, buying homes in Orlando is more expensive than in some other statewide markets, thanks in large part to Central Florida’s booming popularity. With an income to rent ratio of 3.26, renting remains affordable. Approximately 35% of residents own their homes, lower than the national average due in part to the transient population.

C. Top Neighborhoods in Orlando, FL:

• Winter Park (Average Home Value: $500,000 to $3+ million)
  Known for brick streets, oak-canopied avenues, upscale shopping on Park Avenue, and cultural attractions.

• Lake Nona (Average Home Value: $400,000 to $2+ million)
  A master-planned community known for its medical city, excellent schools, and innovative technology.

• College Park (Average Home Value: $350,000 to $1+ million)
  Known for charming bungalows, tree-lined streets, and local shops and restaurants.

• Downtown Orlando (Average Home Value: $300,000 to $1+ million)
  Offers urban living with high-rise condos, historic neighborhoods, and a growing food and cultural scene.

• Dr. Phillips (Average Home Value: $400,000 to $1.5+ million)
  Offers upscale suburban living with access to the infamous and always-changing Restaurant Row and excellent schools.

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D. Employment Prospects

Orlando has an unemployment rate of approximately 3.3% (January 2025) and a poverty rate of approximately 16%, above the national average.

Top industries include tourism and hospitality, healthcare, technology, and higher education. Major employers include Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, MGM, Aamco, AdventHealth, and the University of Central Florida.

The average home-to-work commute time is 30 minutes, slightly above the national average.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

Orlando offers diverse amenities and attractions, with highlights including:

• Theme Parks – Home to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, and LEGOLAND Florida as well as a host of parks a bit further from International Boulevard.
• Lake Eola Park – Downtown park featuring a lake with swan boats, walking paths, and regular events.
• Cultural Scene – Includes the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Orlando Museum of Art, and Orlando Science Center.
• Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour – Features a relaxing tour through interconnected lakes showcasing beautiful homes and residences of both business and celebrity figures alike.
• Sports – Home to the Orlando Magic (NBA), Orlando City Soccer Club (MLS), and Orlando Pride (NWSL). Various college football bowl games also call Orlando its host city.

F. Education

Orlando has a whopping 234 public and 165 private schools, including at least 30 public and 25 private high schools. The area has an excellent educational infrastructure compared to similarly sized metro areas.

Higher education options include the University of Central Florida (with multiple campuses including the renowned Rosen College of Hospitality, one of the largest universities in the U.S.), Rollins College, and Valencia College.

The high school graduation rate is 92%, above the U.S. national average, with approximately 36% of adults holding college degrees.

G. Healthcare and Safety

Orlando is served by several major facilities including AdventHealth Orlando, Orlando Health, and Nemours Children’s Hospital.

The city has 7.2 violent crimes and 34.6 property crimes per 1,000 residents, which ranks above state and national medians and can be attributed to a higher-than-average transient population, with crime rates varying significantly by neighborhood.

2. Fort Myers

Located in Collier County on Florida’s Gulf coast along the Caloosahatchee River, Fort Myers offers a relaxed atmosphere, beautiful waterways, and a more affordable cost compared to many other Florida coastal cities. Just outside the city is Southwest Florida International Airport, a gateway to both American and global markets. Known as the “City of Palms,” Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach combine historical charm with modern amenities.

A. Size and Population

Fort Myers has approximately 92,000 residents (2024) within its city limits, while the greater metropolitan area, including Fort Myers Beach, includes more than 770,000 people.

The population grew by approximately 15% from 2020 through 2024, significantly above the overall U.S. growth rate, in part because of business-friendly policies during the global pandemic.

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

FORT MYERS MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2024): $62,000

Fort Myers Cost of Living:

• 10% Higher than the U.S. National Average
• 5% Lower than Tampa
• 30% Lower than Naples
• 15% Lower than Sarasota

Fort Myers Housing Costs

• Median Home Value: $343,000
• Annual Spend for Homeowners: $22,800
• Annual Spend for Renters: $16,800

With a home price to income ratio of 5.53, buying homes in Fort Myers can be more expensive than in other Florida markets. With an income to rent ratio of 3.69, rent remains affordable. Approximately 58% of residents own their homes.

C. Top Neighborhoods in Fort Myers:

• Historic Downtown (Average Home Value: $300,000 to $1+ million)
  Features beautifully restored buildings with significant revitalization over the past 20 years, particularly the past decade, creating a vibrant urban center.

• McGregor Boulevard (Average Home Value: $400,000 to $2+ million)
  Several miles southwest of downtown, McGregor is famous for its royal palm-lined streets and historic homes, including the winter estates of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. It is the most famous thoroughfare in the region.

• Gateway (Average Home Value: $300,000 to $600,000)
  A 3,000-acre master-planned community just off Interstate 75 near Daniels Parkway featuring golf courses and a renovated clubhouse, parks, and excellent schools.

• Whiskey Creek (Average Home Value: $350,000 to $700,000)
  While still a Ft. Myers mailing address, this community is in neighboring Lee County and features mostly smaller homes surrounded by mature golf courses.

• Cypress Lake (Average Home Value: $300,000 to $600,000)
  A family-friendly neighborhood with a mix of housing styles and convenient access to amenities, including lush green spaces and serene lakes.

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D. Employment Prospects

Fort Myers has an unemployment rate of approximately 3.2% (January 2025) and a poverty rate of approximately 15%, slightly above the national average.

Top industries include healthcare, retail, tourism, construction, and education. Major employers include Lee Health, Lee County School District, and Publix Super Markets.

The average home-to-work commute time is 25 minutes, slightly below the national average.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

Fort Myers offers a relaxed, subtropical lifestyle, with highlights including:

• Edison and Ford Winter Estates – A 20-acre historical site featuring the winter homes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.
• Fort Myers River District – Revitalized downtown area with historic architecture, galleries, and regular events, including free live music every first and third Friday from 6-10 p.m.
• Beaches – Nearby Fort Myers Beach, Captiva, and Sanibel Island offer beautiful beaches known for abundant seashells.
• Caloosahatchee River – The heart of Fort Myers, this wide river provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and waterfront dining.
• Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve – A federally-protected 3,500-acre wetland ecosystem with boardwalk trails through natural pristine cypress swamp.

F. Education

Fort Myers has greater than 45 public and 30 private schools, including 10 public and six private high schools. The area has an above-average educational infrastructure compared to similarly sized metro areas.

Higher education options include Florida SouthWestern State College, Ave Maria University, Florida Gulf Coast University, and Keiser University Fort Myers.

The high school graduation rate is 89%, slightly above the U.S. national average, with approximately 30% of adults holding college degrees.

G. Healthcare and Safety

Fort Myers is served by several major facilities including Lee Memorial Hospital, Gulf Coast Medical Center, and Golisano Children’s Hospital.

The city has 5.6 violent crimes and 24.2 property crimes per 1,000 residents, above state and national medians, with crime rates varying significantly by neighborhood.

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3. Jacksonville and the Jax Beaches

As Florida’s largest city by land area and population, Jacksonville and the surrounding Jax Beaches offers a unique blend of urban living, suburban comforts, and natural beauty. Located in the northeastern corner of Florida, convenient to nearly every other major metro in the state, Jacksonville features miles of well-groomed beaches, extensive park systems even weaving through downtown, and a revitalized urban center, all at a more affordable price point than its South Florida counterpart cities.

A. Size and Population

Jacksonville checks in at approximately 985,000 residents (2024) within its city limits, making it Florida’s most populous city limits. The greater Jax Beaches serve as home to more than 1.6 million residents. The city covers a vast area of 875 square miles.

The population grew by approximately 14% from 2020 through 2024, adding about 14,000 new residents in the past year alone with continued 1% yearly population growth projections in the future.

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

JACKSONVILLE MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2024): $66,981

Jacksonville Cost of Living:

• 5% Lower than the U.S. National Average
• 20% Lower than Tampa
• 40% Lower than Naples
• 30% Lower than Sarasota

Jacksonville Housing Costs

• Median Home Value: $289,000
• Annual Spend for Homeowners: $19,248
• Annual Spend for Renters: $19,248

With a home price to income ratio of 4.31, buying a home in is just above the national average. With an income to rent ratio of 3.48, rent remains affordable. Approximately 60% of residents own their homes.

C. Top Neighborhoods in Jacksonville:

• Riverside Avondale (Average Home Value: $300,000 to $1+ million)
  Adjacent historic districts featuring beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and a vibrant commercial district to serve a robust fusion of citizens from young professionals to retirees, this is one of Jacksonville’s most exciting suburbs.

• San Marco (Average Home Value: $350,000 to $1.5+ million)
  Inspired by Venice’s Piazza San Marco, featuring Mediterranean-style architecture and upscale amenities and generally thought of as one of Jacksonville’s best and safest master planned communities.

• Ponte Vedra Beach (Average Home Value: $500,000 to $5+ million)
  Known for luxurious oceanfront homes, golf fans know this suburb for its world-class golf courses, exclusive country clubs and headquarters to the PGA of America.

• Atlantic Beach/Neptune Beach (Average Home Value: $400,000 to $2+ million)
  A crown jewel of the Jax Beaches featuring sugary-soft sand, crystal waters and a variety of housing options, these adjacent beach communities offer a relaxed coastal lifestyle with strong community ties.

• Mandarin (Average Home Value: $300,000 to $800,000)
  Features beautiful oak trees draped with Spanish moss, riverfront properties, and a suburban atmosphere.

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D. Employment Prospects

Jacksonville has an unemployment rate of approximately 3.1% (January 2025) and a poverty rate of approximately 14%, slightly above the national average but still impressive for a city of its population size

Top industries include healthcare, financial services, military/defense, logistics, and manufacturing. Major employers include Fidelity, Amazon, Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Mayo Clinic, Baptist Health, and CSX Corporation.

The average home-to-work commute time is 26 minutes, close to the national average.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

Jacksonville offers diverse amenities and attractions, with highlights including:

• The Jax Beaches – 22 miles of Atlantic Ocean beaches with distinct areas for Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach.
• St. Johns River – Wide, north-flowing river central to Jacksonville’s urban identity offering boating, day trips, and waterfront dining.
• The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens – Features an impressive art collection and formal gardens overlooking the river.
• Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens – An annual USA Today nominee for the country’s Best Zoo with more than 2,000 animals in naturalistic habitats.
• Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve – A U.S. National Preserve, this 46,000-acre nature preserve is filled with wetlands, waterways, and historic habitats.

F. Education

Jacksonville has at least 196 public and 85 private schools, including 26 public and 17 private high schools. The area has an excellent and high-variety educational infrastructure compared to similar sized metro areas.

Higher education options include the University of North Florida, Jacksonville University, and Florida State College at Jacksonville, one of the nation’s largest community colleges with at least eight campuses throughout the Jax Beaches.

The high school graduation rate is 90%, above the U.S. national average, with approximately 31% of adults holding college degrees.

G. Healthcare and Safety

Jacksonville is served by several major hospitals and health systems including Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, Baptist Health, and UF Health Jacksonville, part of the University of Florida’s health system.

The city has 6.1 violent crimes and 28.3 property crimes per 1,000 residents, above state and national medians, with crime rates varying significantly by neighborhood.

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4. Pensacola

The heart of Escambia County, Pensacola offers an attractive combination of affordability, natural beauty, and rich history. We know that many locales across Florida boast stunning beaches but nestled in the Florida Panhandle on the Gulf of Mexico, Pensacola’s white-sand beaches just might take the cake. Add to that a vibrant downtown, and a significant military presence, and there’s so much to love about this Florida gem

A. Size and Population

Pensacola has 54,654 residents (2024) spread over a 40.7-square-mile area, with a moderate population density of approximately 1,350 people per square mile.

The population grew by approximately 8% from 2020 through 2024, slightly above the overall U.S. growth rate, with growth aided by Florida’s open-for-business mentality during the pandemic.

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

PENSACOLA MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2024): $71,671

Pensacola Cost of Living:

• 10% Lower than the U.S. National Average
• 25% Lower than Tampa
• 45% Lower than Naples
• 15% Lower than Orlando

Pensacola Housing Costs

• Median Home Value: $255,000
• Annual Spend for Homeowners: $16,500
• Annual Spend for Renters: $12,156

With a home price to income ratio of 3.56, buying homes in Pensacola is relatively affordable. With an income to rent ratio of 5.90, renting is also very affordable. Approximately 55% of residents own their homes.

C. Top Neighborhoods in Pensacola:

• East Hill (Average Home Value: $250,000 to $800,000)
  One of Pensacola’s most desirable neighborhoods, featuring historic homes, tree-lined streets, unique restaurants and proximity to downtown.

• North Hill (Average Home Value: $200,000 to $700,000)
  A historic preservation district with beautifully-maintained homes dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, formally turned into a preservation district in 1974.

• Cordova Park (Average Home Value: $250,000 to $600,000)
  A family-friendly neighborhood with well-maintained homes, large and spacious yards and community spaces, excellent schools, and convenient access to downtown amenities.

• Pensacola Beach (Average Home Value: $400,000 to $2+ million)
  Offers beachfront living on Santa Rosa Island with clear water, white sand, stunning Gulf views and a resort-like atmosphere with proximity to Fort Pickens military base.

• Downtown Pensacola (Average Home Value: $200,000 to $700,000)
  A recently revitalized swath of 44 square blocks with historic buildings converted to condos and apartments, offering walkability to attractions and a revitalized restaurant district.

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D. Employment Prospects

Pensacola has an unemployment rate of approximately 3.0% (January 2025) and a poverty rate of approximately 14%, slightly above the national average.

Top employers include the tourism industry, military bases such as Fort Pickens and Naval Air Station Pensacola, health care with dominant providers Baptist Health Care, Sacred Heart Health System, and Navy Federal Credit Union.

The average home-to-work commute time is just 18 minutes, significantly below the national average.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

Pensacola offers a distinctive blend of military heritage, beach living, and Southern charm, with highlights including:

• Pensacola Beach – Known for sugar-white sand and emerald waters … and plenty of free parking!
• Historic Downtown – Features restored buildings, Plaza Ferdinand, and various shops, restaurants, and museums.
• National Naval Aviation Museum – One of the world’s largest aviation museums with more than 150 restored aircraft.
• Blue Angels – The U.S. Navy’s famous flight demonstration squadron based at NAS Pensacola.
• Palafox Street – Named one of the “10 Great Streets in America” with historic architecture, shops, and restaurants in a tree-lined, safe atmosphere.

F. Education

Pensacola has at least 20 public and 25 private schools, including 5 public and 6 private high schools. The area has a diverse educational infrastructure compared to similarly sized metro areas.

Higher education options include the University of West Florida with campuses in Pensacola and nearby Fort Walton Beach, Pensacola State College, and Pensacola Christian College.

The high school graduation rate is 87%, above the U.S. national average, with approximately 33% of adults holding college degrees.

G. Healthcare and Safety

Pensacola is served by several major facilities including one of Florida’s flagship health systems, Baptist Health Care, in addition to Ascension Sacred Heart and West Florida Hospital.

The city has 5.2 violent crimes and 23.8 property crimes per 1,000 residents, though this activity tends to be concentrated in non-residential downtown areas, slightly above state and national medians, though many neighborhoods remain very safe.

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5. Tampa

Located on the west coast along Tampa Bay, and anchor of the Tampa-St. Petersburg metropolitan area known for its rapid growth and investment, this vibrant city offers abundant urban amenities, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation opportunities. With a booming job market and a relatively affordable housing supply compared to other major Florida metros, Tampa attracts a diverse and growing population.

A. Size and Population

Tampa has approximately 400,000 residents (2024) within city limits, while the greater Tampa Bay area, including St. Petersburg, is home to more than three million residents.

The population grew by approximately 12% from 2020 through 2024, significantly above the overall U.S. growth rate, no doubt in part to less restrictive policies during the global pandemic.

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

TAMPA MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2024): $65,000

Tampa Cost of Living:

• 15% Higher than the U.S. National Average
• 5% Higher than Orlando
• 25% Lower than Naples
• 10% Lower than Sarasota

Tampa Housing Costs

• Median Home Value: $375,947
• Annual Spend for Homeowners: $25,200
• Annual Spend for Renters: $18,000

With a home price to income ratio of 5.78, buying homes in Tampa leans toward the expensive side. With an income to rent ratio of 3.61, renting is affordable with a variety of rental options available. Approximately 52% of residents own their homes.

C. Top Neighborhoods in Tampa:

• Hyde Park (Average Home Value: $600,000 to $2+ million)
  An upscale historic neighborhood just south of downtown with plenty of tree-lined streets, beautiful homes and proximity to the notable Bayshore Boulevard.

• Channelside (Average Home Value: $300,000 to $1+ million)
  An upscale, trendy neighborhood within the Channel District of Tampa, popular for its brightly colored storefronts, patio bars, luxury high-rises and an urban lifestyle.

• Davis Islands (Average Home Value: $700,000 to $5+ million)
  It has fully transformed from a swampy outcrop to one of Tampa’s most coveted suburban neighborhoods, featuring Mediterranean-style homes, panoramic water views, and a yacht club.

• Seminole Heights (Average Home Value: $300,000 to $700,000)
  An affordable northern Tampa suburb making a resurgence, known for bungalow-style historic homes, trendy restaurants, craft breweries, and an artistic vibe.

• Westchase (Average Home Value: $400,000 to $1+ million)
  Annually rated as Florida’s top suburb, a master-planned suburban community known for a range of home types, excellent schools and family-friendly amenities within easy reach of downtown.

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D. Employment Prospects

Tampa has an unemployment rate of approximately 3.0% (January 2025) and a poverty rate of approximately 16%, slightly above the national average.

Top industries include healthcare, financial services, technology, tourism, and professional services. Major employers include Pfizer, Cisco, Publix, MacDill Air Force Base, Tampa General Hospital, Raymond James Financial, and JPMorgan Chase.

The average home-to-work commute time is 27 minutes, not far from the national average.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

Tampa-St. Pete offers diverse amenities and attractions, with highlights including:

• Tampa Riverwalk – A 2.6-mile waterfront path connecting downtown’s cultural and recreational attractions.
• Ybor City – This historic Latin Quarter features distinctive architecture and vibrant nightlife.
• Bayshore Boulevard – A scenic waterfront boulevard featuring the world’s longest continuous sidewalk (4.5 miles).
• Busch Gardens Tampa Bay – One of two African-themed amusement parks in the U.S., with thrilling rides and animal exhibits.
• Professional Sports – Home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL), Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL), Tampa Bay Rays (MLB), and Tampa Bay Rowdies (United Soccer League).

F. Education

Tampa has approximately 85 public and 75 private schools, including 20 public and 15 private high schools. The area has a large and highly rated educational infrastructure compared to similarly sized metro areas.

Higher education options include the University of South Florida, also one of the area’s largest employers, as well as the University of Tampa, and Hillsborough Community College.

The high school graduation rate is 89%, above the U.S. national average, with approximately 37% of adults holding college degrees.

G. Healthcare and Safety

Tampa is served by several major facilities including Tampa General Hospital, AdventHealth Tampa, HCA Brandon and Moffitt Cancer Center.

The city has 4.8 violent crimes and 22.5 property crimes per 1,000 residents, slightly above state and national medians, with crime rates varying significantly by neighborhood.

6. Sarasota

A nearly perfect blend of quality of life, warm weather, high-quality healthcare, tons of attractions, and a surprisingly affordable cost of living, Sarasota combines cultural sophistication with picturesque Gulf Coast beaches. Located south of Tampa on Florida’s Gulf coast, and boasting its own international airport, Sarasota offers a unique blend of arts, nature, and tropical living that appeals to a diverse population from retirees to young professionals and families.

A. Size and Population

Sarasota has approximately 58,000 residents (2024) within city limits, while the greater Sarasota County area is home to more than 440,000 residents. The population density is moderate, allowing for a generous balance between urban amenities and spacious living.

The population grew by approximately 16% from 2020 through 2024, significantly above the overall U.S. growth rate, nodding to Florida’s tax-friendly, open business climate during the pandemic.

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

SARASOTA MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2024): $72,000

Sarasota Cost of Living:

• 25% Higher than the U.S. National Average
• 15% Higher than Jacksonville
• 30% Lower than Naples
• 20% Higher than Pensacola

Sarasota Housing Costs

• Median Home Value: $434,000
• Annual Spend for Homeowners: $28,800
• Annual Spend for Renters: $21,000

With a home price to income ratio of 6.03, buying homes in Sarasota can trend on the expensive side. Alternatively, thanks to an income to rent ratio of 3.43, renting is affordable and options are plentiful. Approximately 65% of residents own their homes.

C. Top Neighborhoods in Sarasota:

• Laurel Park (Average Home Value: $500,000 to $1.5+ million)
  A neighborhood with a real sense of place, Laurel Park is an extremely walkable historic district near Downtown that leaves many residents without the need for a car. The neighborhood features alleyways, historic bungalows and modern homes.

• Bird Key (Average Home Value: $1.2 million to $8+ million)
  An exclusive island master-planned neighborhood dating to the 1950s with only 500 homes offering waterfront living, Bird Key offersdeep-water docks and Sarasota Bay views, or views of the canal or gardens.

• West of Trail (Average Home Value: $700,000 to $3+ million)
  This highly desirable area west of Tamiami Trail and east of Sarasota Bay offer a mix of historic and new construction homes across several distinctive neighborhoods as well as chic Southside Village shopping and eclectic restaurants.

• Fruitville (Average Home Value: $275,600 to $600,000)
  With a healthy mix of retirees and families and an above-average median income, Fruitville boasts an affordable, dense suburban feel with coastal-style ranches, good schools, and easy access to outdoor recreation.

• South Gate Ridge (Average Home Value: $256,400 to $600,000)
  Known for its small-town feel and well-rated public schools, South Gate Ridge provides budget-friendly bungalows, cottages, and Mid-Century ranches with quick commutes and easy access to shopping and restaurants.

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D. Employment Prospects

Sarasota has an unemployment rate of approximately 2.8% (January 2025) and a poverty rate of 9.5%, both below national and state averages.

Top industries include healthcare, tourism, retail, education, and professional services such as finance and legal. Major employers include Sarasota Memorial Health Care System and the Sarasota County School District.

The average home-to-work commute time is a respectable 23 minutes, below the national average.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

Sarasota is often referred to as Florida’s Cultural Coast, and offers distinctive cultural richness and natural beauty, with highlights including:

• Siesta Key Beach – Consistently ranked among the world’s best beaches with luxurious, fine white sand.
• The Ringling – A 66-acre cultural complex including the State Art Museum of Florida, Circus Museum, and Ca’ d’Zan mansion.
• St. Armands Circle – Island shopping district featuring upscale boutiques and European-inspired architecture.
• Marie Selby Botanical Gardens – Bayfront gardens specializing in epiphytes with stunning displays and exhibitions.
• Legacy Trail – 12+ mile paved trail connecting Sarasota to Venice for cycling, running, and walking.
• Towles Court Artist Colony – Located Downtown, bungalows and historic cottages accommodate an eclectic collection of independent galleries, studios, cafés and sculpture gardens among mossy live oaks.

F. Education

Sarasota has approximately 30 public and 40 private schools, including seven public and 10 private or parochial high schools. The area has an excellent educational infrastructure compared to similar sized metro areas.

Higher education options include New College of Florida, Ringling College of Art and Design, Everglades University-Sarasota, and University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee.

The high school graduation rate is 91%, significantly above the U.S. national average, with approximately 42% of adults holding college degrees.

G. Healthcare and Safety

Sarasota is served by Sarasota Memorial Hospital, a highly rated healthcare system with multiple facilities. The HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital additionally serves residents, and numerous specialty centers and clinics dot the area.

The city has 1.5 violent crimes and 14.7 property crimes per 1,000 residents, both below state and national medians, ensuring Sarasota remains a beacon of safety and security.

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7. Naples

Naples tops our list as the premier city to live in Florida for 2025. Perched on the Paradise Coast on the Gulf of Mexico in Southwest Florida just 30 minutes south of Fort Myers and the Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), Naples is known for its stunning white-sand beaches, upscale shopping, world-class dining, and abundant lush golf courses. The ultra-clean city offers a luxurious lifestyle with a relaxed coastal vibe that appeals particularly to affluent retirees and professionals seeking a high quality of life.

A. Size and Population

While the City of Naples only has approximately 22,000 residents (2024) within its limits, the greater Naples area contains more than 385,000 residents within Collier County. The population density is relatively low, contributing to the city’s spread-out and spacious feel.

Thanks in part to a business-as-usual climate during the pandemic, Naples’ population grew by approximately 14% from 2020 through 2024, significantly above the overall U.S. growth rate, reflecting its increasing appeal as a relocation destination.

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

NAPLES MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (2024): $85,000

Naples Cost of Living:

• 37% Higher than the U.S. National Average
• 25% Higher than Orlando
• 20% Lower than New York City
• 30% Higher than Chicago

Naples Housing Costs

• Median Home Value: $600,000
• Annual Spend for Homeowners: $40,000
• Annual Spend for Renters: $24,000

With a home price to income ratio of 7.06, buying a home in Naples is expensive. However, with an income to rent ratio of 3.54, renting tends to be affordable and a wide variety of rental units – from apartment communities to single-family homes, ensures constant inventory. Approximately 70% of residents own their homes.

C. Top Neighborhoods in Naples:

• Port Royal (Average Home Value: $5 million to $20+ million)
  The definition of Florida luxury and liftstyle, Port Royal is an exclusive waterfront community shaped over decades and offering direct Gulf access, expansive beach front estates, and membership to the prestigious Port Royal Club.

• Olde Naples (Average Home Value: $1.5 million to $10+ million)
  Just steps away from downtown Naples, this neighborhood features historic southern charm combined with iconic luxury living and is mere blocks from Naples Pier and Fifth Avenue South with walkability to beaches, dining, and shopping.

• Pelican Bay (Average Home Value: $800,000 to $6+ million)
  A unique master-planned community blending coastal luxury with superior quality of life, Pelican Bay is situated on three miles of private beach and offers multiple clubhouses and diverse housing options, from high-rise condos to single-family estates.

• Park Shore (Average Home Value: $750,000 to $8+ million)
  Hedged by the Moorings to the south and Pelican Bay to the north, Park Shore combines beachfront high-rises with inland single-family homes, and features easy access to both beaches and highways, offering access to beaches, entertainment, shopping and dining alike.

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D. Employment Prospects

Naples has an unemployment rate of approximately 2.5% (January 2025) and a poverty rate of 7.2%, both well below national and state averages.

Top industries include tourism, healthcare, retail, real estate, and financial services. Major employers include ACI Worldwide, Lee Health, NCH Healthcare System, Arthrex, and various luxury resorts.

The average home-to-work commute time is just 22 minutes, below the national average.

E. Unique Attributes and Lifestyle

Naples offers sought-after luxury and natural beauty, with highlights including:

• Naples Pier – A historic landmark offering spectacular sunset views and dolphin watching opportunities.
• Fifth Avenue South & Third Street South – Downtown Naples’ premier shopping and dining districts, designed for walking, and featuring upscale boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants.
• Naples Botanical Garden – A lush 170-acre garden showcasing tropical plants from around the world.
• Baker Park – Extremely popular among families and retirees alike, this waterfront park along the Gordon River boasts many walking paths and recreational facilities.
• Arts and Culture – Naples is home to the Baker Museum, Gulfshore Playhouse, Sugden Community Theatre, and Naples Philharmonic, and altogether hosts more than 300 concerts and performances annually.

F. Education

Naples has greater than 35 public and 45 private schools, including eight public and 12 private high schools. The area has an excellent and highly diverse educational infrastructure compared to similar sized metro areas.

Higher education options include Florida SouthWestern State College’s NaplesCampus, Keiser University-Naples, Ave Maria University and Florida Gulf Coast University just north of Naples along Interstate 75.

The high school graduation rate is 93%, significantly above the U.S. national average, with approximately 46% of adults holding college degrees.

G. Healthcare and Safety

Naples is served by the NCH Healthcare System and Lee Health and is home to numerous specialized medical facilities and practices.

The city has 0.89 violent crimes and 10.5 property crimes per 1,000 residents, both significantly below state and national medians. Naples consistently ranks as one of Florida’s safest cities.

Conclusion

Florida continues to attract a record number of newcomers with its diverse metropolitan markets offering something for everyone. From Naples’ luxurious Gulf Coast lifestyle to Jacksonville’s urban-suburban blend, from the military enclaves of Pensacola to the tourism destinations in Orlando, each locale provides unique advantages. When choosing your ideal Florida destination, consider factors like cost of living, employment opportunities, and lifestyle preferences. While housing costs have increased overall statewide, our Top 7 places to live in the Sunshine State still offer relative affordability compared to other coastal regions nationwide.