10 Florida Towns With the Best Rent for Retirees on a Budget

While homeowners may fret at the idea of renting during retirement, there's a lot to be said for how much it can simplify your life. For example, when you rent, you no longer have to worry about things like the burden of property taxes, routine maintenance, or even worse, surprise costs. Better still, renting gives you flexibility.

Want to downsize, live closer to family, or become a world traveler? Renting can give you the freedom to do so with complete peace of mind. If that sounds appealing, you may want to consider the Sunshine State. 

Renting in Florida can offer you all this, and more, by further helping you avoid money mistakes, like moving somewhere with high tax rates on Social Security and 401(k) payments. Let's explore the 10 best locations where you can do so.

All data on rental prices sourced from BestPlaces.

Average rent: $1,030

Quincy is a small town located in the Tallahassee Metro Area. It's a quiet, relaxed place close to Lake Talquin, which gives seniors the opportunity for outdoor pursuits like fishing and boating. Living in Quincy is also convenient if you need access to healthcare in larger cities like Tallahassee and Panama City.

Seniors looking for a place where they can enjoy the vibes associated with coastal living, without the crowded close proximity to the beach thanks to the town's in-land location, may find this town especially appealing.

Average rent: $970

Bartow is another quiet town that offers retirees a semi-rural life and low rents. It sports many parks, green spaces, and mom-and-pop stores and eateries — a charming atmosphere that seniors are bound to enjoy.

Active seniors may be especially drawn to the town's many local and nearby parks — like Mosaic Peace River Park, Bonnet Springs Park, Barnett Family Park, and Mary Holland Park — while those who were hoping to flex their mental muscles may enjoy spending their days checking out the Polk County History Center & Genealogical Library.

Average rent: $1,260

Dade City allows renters to enjoy all the advantages of living in Tampa or Orlando without the setbacks of a busy tourist trap. And, the affordable rent isn't the only thing this town has going for it, either. 

Dade City has a robust network of senior centers, where you can find everything from hot meals to planned activities that can help you stay active while also allowing you to meet new people.

Dade City is close to the Silver Springs theme park, and the town offers outdoor activities like horseback riding for sporty retirees. Those who prefer more sedate indoor pursuits have several dining and shopping options.

Average rent: $1,470

Melbourne's rent is slightly less affordable than other cities on this list, but living in this Brevard County town is worth it. That's because Melbourne is a paradise for beach-loving seniors due to its proximity to the pristine coast of the Atlantic Ocean.

Seniors who retire to Melbourne can take advantage of the many nature preserves, hit up the Brevard Zoo, or take in a show at the King Center for the Performing Arts — this stylish town has something for everyone.

Average rent: $1,170

As the home to the University of Florida, Gainesville is a vibrant college town filled with entertainment venues, shops, and restaurants. Not only that, but Gainesville is also a healthcare hub where seniors who enjoy bustling city life and keeping themselves young can easily access the care they need.

Despite its focus on entertainment, Gainesville also offers plenty of opportunities for quiet moments communing with nature in one of its many parks. 

 Plus, the nearby college has robust continuing education programs, including the Institute for Learning in Retirement, where you can find like-minded retirees looking to expand their minds.

Average rent: $1,020

While this town attracts many tourists with its rejuvenating springs, it has a quiet and relaxed vibe. That's something that many seniors find appealing, especially when paired with the town's close-knit community and a low cost of living.

Besides enjoying the natural beauty and outdoor activities like hiking and boating, active seniors can get close to the wildlife in Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park and become better acquainted with majestic creatures like manatees.

Average rent: $910

If you're looking to improve your golf handicap, Lake City may be the place to be, since this town comes with perks like affordable rents and lots of golf courses. Yet that isn't all this charming Florida woodland town has to offer.

Lake City is a perfect location for anyone who likes being outdoors, thanks to the easy access to Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park and Lake DeSoto. Even better, this small, close-knit community has a reputation for looking after its own, which may give you a feeling of belonging in addition to low rents.

Average rent: $1,290

Punta Gorda started off as a fishing village and is proud of its humble origins. Seniors who retire here can visit Fishermen's Village for a taste of the past while enjoying delicious seafood year-round. 

Punta Gorda also has an annual Seafood & Music Festival, where you can experience free music or shop the stands set up by local vendors.

Punta Gorda also offers retirees quality healthcare and a peaceful, relaxed pace of life.

Average rent: $1,110

Haines City is surrounded by beautiful lakes, which seniors make plenty of use of once the mercury begins to rise. And, residents say that it really does rise here. Weather Spark says that the hot season lasts nearly five months, and sees average temperatures in the high 80s.

While the city can get hot during summer, staying on the water can help retirees cool off while they enjoy boating and relaxing in the shade. That's something a lot of seniors are happy to take in stride so they can enjoy the area's low cost of living. 

Plus, those who want to live it up and splurge from time to time can make the short trip to Tampa or Orlando for a few hours of shopping.

Average rent: 1,250

Living in the bustling metropolis of Jacksonville may not be appealing if you're looking for a quiet place to spend your retirement. However, Green Cove Springs, a small suburb of Jacksonville, may be appealing for those looking for an active area that still has a small town vibe..

This small town is walkable and laid-back, and its location on the banks of the St. John's River gives seniors plenty of opportunity to enjoy nature. Green Cove Springs also has a lively downtown area, making it equally easy to enjoy delicious meals and cultural pursuits.

From Dade City to Punta Gorda, these ten Florida towns are great for retirees who watch their budget while taking advantage of all the perks of renting during their golden years.

Want to protect yourself even better and withstand economic downturns? Take a look at some of the part-time job opportunities these towns have so that you can shore up your monthly budget with a little extra income. Even with low rents and less financial responsibility, padding your savings can help you achieve a little extra peace of mind in retirement.