9 Florida Cities Where You Can Still Buy a Home for Under $215,000

Florida has long been the favorite destination for retirees and outdoor enthusiasts alike. However, it's once affordable housing is no more. As of the first quarter of 2025, the median home price in the Sunshine State came in around $387,464. And, while that is less than the national average of $416,900, it's still high for many.

But, the news isn't all bleak. There are still places in Florida where you can find a home for $215,000 or less, which can allow you to get ahead financially while enjoying all of the perks that Florida has to offer. We put together a list of nine locations where you can turn your dreams into a reality without having to spend big in the process.

All affordability data is pulled from BestPlaces unless otherwise noted.

While Fort Myers' median home price is $349,500, its cost of living is 1.1% lower than other Florida destinations. What's more, there are plenty of properties, particularly condos, that you can buy for less than $215,000.

Overall, the city is significantly more affordable than areas like North Fort Myers and Cape Coral. Couple that with Florida's lower overall costs and lack of income tax, and you've got a winner that will help pay for your mortgage.

Titusville is a great option for retirees dreaming of beach life. Located between Cape Canaveral and Merritt Island, the city offers seniors a relaxed life with many on-the-water hobbies like fishing and boating.

With a median home cost of $267,400, Titusville is much cheaper than the national median price and 26.4% less expensive than Florida's median. Although that may be above your budget, Zillow shows various homes ranging from two-bedroom to four-bedroom for under $215,000.

Ocala is perfect for equestrians who've maintained their form into their golden years. The "Horse Capital of the World" also gives you easy access to Orlando and the trails of Ocala National Forest.

You can find many properties within your $215,000 budget in this beach paradise. Ocala's cost of living is generally affordable, and at $278,500, its median home price is 21.4% lower than the national average.

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A scroll on Zillow shows that Gainesville is a great spot for a budget of $215,000 or less. Depending on your needs, you can buy a condo or even a fully detached four-bedroom home.

So, what else does Gainesville have to offer? As home to the University of Florida, this city has lots of eateries, entertainment options, and outdoor activities. Its median home price is $271,700, and taxes are generally lower than elsewhere in the state, which can help you get out of tax debt.

As its name implies, Winter Haven is a great spot for seniors looking to ditch the cold season forever during their retirement years. Surrounded by over 100 lakes, the city is perfect for nature walks, fishing, and boating.

While the median home cost in Winter Haven is above your budget at $281,200, you'll find plenty of options for homes within your budget with a cursory look on platforms like Zillow. The city's cost of living index is 11.2% lower than Florida's average and 8.4% lower than the national one.

Bartow is located in the same area as Winter Haven, offering would-be homeowners a similar feel and gorgeous nature. It also matches Winter Haven in terms of properties that comfortably fit your $215,000 budget.

Moreover, Bartow is ideal if you want to live in a smaller city close to Tampa and Orlando. With a population of only 20,000, this affordable city has a 37.7% lower-than-average median housing cost of $245,600.

Homosassa Springs is another option if you've always dreamed of retiring to a small town with a close-knit community and many outdoor pursuits. Located close to the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, north of Tampa, this charming small town welcomes retirees with golf courses and freshwater springs.

The median home price is below your budget at $174,700. Even better, Zillow shows a great assortment of properties in Homosassa Springs for $215,000 or less.

The capital of the Sunshine State offers scenic beauty to seniors who don't mind subtropical weather. Tallahassee has a bustling city life and outdoor opportunities for hiking and boating.

On the affordability side, Tallahassee is a good fit for your $215,000 budget, especially if you're looking for a condo. While the median home price is $249,700, the city's cost of living is 8.8% lower than the U.S. average, and a couple only needs $47,880 a year to live comfortably there.

Pensacola's proximity to the coast makes it ideal for retirees who want to soak up the sun and enjoy being on the water. Its location near Fort Pickens State Park will also give you plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors.

The city's median cost of living is $240,000, but you'll be spoiled for choice if you check out Zillow for properties within your budget. Likewise, if you want to rent a place before you commit to Pensacola, you'll pay 21.7% less than the national average for rent or $1,120 per month.

Want to make a move to the Sunshine State but don't want to spend more than $215,000 on your new home? It could be possible in areas like Tallahassee, Homosassa Springs, and Ocala. All you need to do is find a licensed real estate agent to help you find exactly what you're looking for.

And, that's good news, because moving to Florida can be a clever homeowner move if you want to lower your overall housing costs by finding an affordable place to call home. Not only that, but Florida's low cost of living will help you stick to your budget, allowing you to do more with your savings.