For many people, retiring to a Florida beach town is the ultimate dream. With the warm sun, beautiful beaches, and a plethora of activities to enjoy, it’s no wonder why so many are drawn to the idea of living in a laid-back beach town. However, with the increasing demand, prices have been on the rise, making it difficult to find an affordable spot in the state. Despite this, the allure of living in a Florida beach town remains strong.
If you’re looking for a beachside getaway without breaking the bank, don’t fret! You can still live out your dream of soaking up the sun and feeling the sand between your toes. All you need to do is find an affordable beach town, and we’ve got you covered. Look no further than our list of the most budget-friendly beach towns in Florida. With these options, you’ll be able to find a new home that won’t break the bank.
10 Most Affordable Beach Towns in Florida
1. Pensacola
Pensacola, situated in the Florida Panhandle, is the ideal beach town for budget-conscious residents. It offers affordable living by the waterfront, with a median home value of $257,000 in 2023 and a median housing cost of $1,232 per month, including rent and mortgages. Moreover, the cost of living in Pensacola is well below the national average, making it the most affordable beach town in Florida.
West Florida is a beloved destination for those seeking a vibrant lifestyle with an array of thrilling attractions and abundant beachfront opportunities. It’s no surprise that many retirees choose to call this place home and enjoy everything it has to offer.
2. Daytona Beach
Did you know that Daytona Beach, the one that allows cars to drive on it and is renowned for its racing history, is also one of the most inexpensive beach towns in Florida? Surprisingly, this city is affordable for locals and offers a fantastic beach experience.
Daytona Beach boasts a median home price of just $271,000, making it an affordable option for many who may not have been able to purchase a home before. Additionally, residents can enjoy the local amenities without breaking the bank. Racing enthusiasts may even want to consider investing in a summer home here to catch all the exciting races that take place in the city. Who wouldn’t want to witness those cars zooming down the track?
3. Deerfield Beach
Deerfield Beach is a beloved destination for families who seek exciting activities while enjoying the warmth of the sun. This lively beach town boasts not one, but two thrilling theme parks that cater to families. It’s no wonder why Deerfield Beach is a favorite among those who want to keep the fun and excitement alive!
According to sources, Deerfield Beach residents are known for their friendly demeanor, making it a welcoming community. Moreover, the job market has been flourishing in recent years, providing ample employment opportunities for the locals. As per the latest statistics, the current median home price in the area stands at a modest $290,000, with the median monthly housing cost averaging around $1,310.
4. Fort Walton Beach
If you’re in search of a location that is within easy driving distance of the Indian Temple Mound Museum and Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, you may want to consider Fort Walton Beach. This bustling city town offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy and is conveniently located near these popular destinations.
This place is the perfect blend of affordability and luxury, catering to people from all walks of life. It offers everything from stunning houses to lavish apartments that will make you feel like a Hollywood star. The median house cost in Fort Walton Beach is just $349,000, making it an affordable haven for the average person.
Vero Beach is a hidden gem among the Florida beach towns, where affordability meets luxury. This quaint resort town has become a favorite among travelers and locals alike due to its affordable prices. As of December 2022, the median home price in Vero Beach is just $362,000, making it one of the most budget-friendly beach towns in Florida.
5. Vero Beach
Vero Beach is also one of the most affordable Florida beach towns. It has become a traveler’s little secret as an inexpensive resort town—and yes, it is also affordable for locals. Vero Beach’s median property price is $362,000 as of December 2022, making it one of the least expensive beach communities in Florida.
Living in Vero Beach allows you to experience many aspects of life that are normally reserved for tourists. You get sun, restaurants, lively nightlife, and plenty of romantic settings. Developers may choose Vero Beach as their next hotspot, so seize real estate while you can.
6. Clearwater
Clearwater is another of Florida’s most cheap beach cities. It also has a somewhat unusual reputation. Clearwater is recognized for being the headquarters of the Church of Scientology, which may be a good thing for the organization’s ardent believers.
Other attractions in this peaceful small Tampa town include superb eateries and lovely beaches. You may acquire a home in this lovely yet odd resort town for a low median home price of $370,000. Who would have imagined it was possible?
7. Tarpon Springs
Tarpon Springs, another renowned tourist destination, was formerly a seaside town known for its Green sponge sea divers and swordfishing. Even today, it’s possible to discern some of the past’s effects, whether it’s through local sculptures devoted to divers, numerous boating events, or even local food hotspots.
The median rent in this town is only $1,269, making it one of the nicest places for rent that is so low compared to the national average. Tarpon Springs is the place to go if you want to be affordable without sacrificing safety or excitement.
8. Melbourne
Melbourne is another of Florida’s most cheap beach cities. This small city is a seaside resort with stunning vistas, but that’s not the only thing this location has to offer. It is home to a thriving arts district.
This location could be ideal for a struggling artist. Why? Because the median housing cost in the area is under $920, it is one of the most affordable places to live on this list!
9. Lake Worth
While it is a small city (or a very large town), Lake Worth should be included on this list. Lake Worth has a little something for everyone. It features family-friendly beaches, romantic vacations, and a surprisingly active business sector.
People visit Lake Worth to forget about their problems or to locate a new location to live. With a median property price of $412,000, it’s simple to see why this community appears to attract a diverse range of people. Who doesn’t enjoy a good deal?
10. North Miami Beach
This is not, technically, a town. However, this hasn’t stopped it from becoming quite popular with individuals who want to reside near a beach. Fans of city living will enjoy this region, especially with its nightlife and wonderfully delicious cuisine.
Although North Miami Beach is one of Florida’s most affordable beach towns, prices are rapidly rising. In 2023, the average property price in town was $458,000. This is lower than the national average for seaside communities. However, proceed with caution. North Miami Beach has a significant crime problem.
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