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15 Florida Cities Where You Can Buy a Home Under $300,000

There are many reasons to consider a move to the Sunshine State — and home prices and favorable tax policies are two big ones.

By Laura Gesualdi-Gilmore

Edited by Laura Ratliff

Updated Dec. 18, 2024

While Florida may be known for its theme parks and an array of thriving retirement communities, the state has much more to offer, particularly for those looking to make smart homeowner moves.

From beach communities to quaint small towns, the state has a diverse range of living options, with many of these thriving communities also offering low home prices.

If you’re considering relocating to the Sunshine State, these 15 cities each have their own charm — and homes you can buy for under $300,000.

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Port St. Lucie

Port St. Lucie’s popularity has grown in recent years, so higher prices have come along with that. Still, the median home price in the city along Florida’s Treasure Coast is just $293,943.

The Sunshine State’s big draws are not far, as Port St. Lucie sits at a mid-point between Orlando and Miami — and the city offers beautiful views and plenty to do.

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Fort Myers

Fort Myers was once considered a retirement haven. While it’s now becoming more popular with younger adults and families, the median home price is still $273,214.

The Gulf Coast city has a lot to offer outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of freshwater and saltwater channels and plenty of boating, fishing, hiking, and biking opportunities.

Pensacola

Located in Florida’s panhandle, there’s a lot to love about the Pensacola area — from beautiful beaches to the rich history to the thriving arts scene.

With all the draws, it might be hard to believe that Pensacola's home prices are still below the national average, yet the U.S. News and World Report put the median home price at $226,249.

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Palm Bay

In Palm Bay, located in eastern central Florida, the median home price is significantly below the national average at just $223,821. Families looking for a quiet town near beaches and nature preserves can find some real gems in the city.

Gainesville

A lot is going on in Gainesville — from the lively main campus of the University of Florida to the thriving arts scene to its stunning parks and trails.

While the large college student population may drive up some costs in the area, the city's median housing price, at $234,946, is still well below the national average.

Cape Coral

While the median home price in Cape Coral, a city in southwest Florida, is $314,107, according to U.S. News and World Report, you can nab a home for significantly less.

It’s a great city for growing families, and potential buyers may be surprised to find excellent properties close to parks and schools.

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Daytona Beach

Plenty beyond the beach draws people to Daytona Beach — such as a hot arts and restaurant scene, golf courses, and, of course, the Daytona International Speedway.

And it’s not just a big tourist draw; it’s also an affordable place to settle down, with a median home price well below the national average of $199,838.

Kissimmee

Located in central Florida, Kissimmee's big draw is its proximity to Disney World and the other parks the Sunshine State is famous for.

It offers a bit of serenity away from, but still near, lively Orlando — and the median home price is $282,738.

Panama City

Panama City is located in Florida’s panhandle between Pensacola and Tallahassee.

Many draws attract potential buyers to the area — from proximity to beaches and parks to a stunning historic downtown — and the median home price is just $203,637.

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Jacksonville

Located on Florida’s northeast coast, Jacksonville has plenty to do and see — lovely beaches, a dynamic downtown area with various restaurants and shops, and plenty of draws for outdoorsy types. What’s more, the median home price in the city is just $247,487.

Lake City

Lake City is located in northern Florida, and potential homebuyers can nab an excellent home for significantly less than the national average — just $254,488.

The city is also conveniently located near the state’s border with Georgia and several major highways.

Bartow

Bartow is in central Florida, near Tampa or Orlando's many amusement parks and attractions. The city has a rich history dating back to 1851 (when it used to be called Fort Blount), and it offers a low median home price of just $272,038.

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Deltona

Located on the northern shore of Lake Monroe and not far from the many draws of Daytona Beach, Deltona has a lot to offer potential buyers. It’s an excellent area for outdoorsy types, and with a median home price of $228,890, the cost of living is also a draw.

Ocala

Ocala is known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” and residents and visitors can enjoy stunning horse farms, a thriving city center, and a historic downtown.

The central Florida city has a lot to offer: natural beauty, lively neighborhoods, and low home prices. The median home price is just $214,282.

Winter Haven

Winter Haven is known for its many lakes, lakeside parks, and attractions and is home to LEGOLAND Florida Resort. It’s a haven for outdoorsy types and those who like to spend time on the water, and the median home price is just $196,999.

Bottom line

You can take many steps to help pay for your mortgage — but buying in an area where the cost of living and home prices are lower than average can set you up for success from the start.

Thanks to its warm climate, affordable housing, and no state income tax, Florida checks the boxes for many buyers.

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