Housing remains expensive in the U.S. — the national median home value was $355,328 in February, and Florida’s median home value was even higher at $385,541. And, while these figures can be intimidating, you can still find homes in the Sunshine State for less than the national average.
Besides enjoying the good life in Florida’s friendly communities, relocating to this state gives you further benefits that help build wealth. They include no income tax and a lower cost of living in some areas.
If you want to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in Florida, here are 10 cities you should keep an eye on.
Get a protection plan on all your appliances
Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.
Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.
For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.
Tampa
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While the average Tampa home value is slightly above your budget at $371,271, you can still find many homes that sell for $350,000 in this vibrant community. Alternatively, you can consider ways to make cash on the side to afford your dream home.
The best part about choosing Tampa as your new home base is all the attractions you can visit.
From the Busch Gardens theme park to the Museum of Fine Arts, Tampa has something for everyone. Like the rest of the Sunshine State, the city has countless outdoor activities to enjoy and natural beauty to match.
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Orlando
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Orlando is a sought-after city, and its home prices reflect that. The average home value in this tourist haven is $377,005. If you’ve always dreamed of taking your family to Universal Studios, Walt Disney World Resort, and SeaWorld, here’s your chance to live close to these attractions permanently.
Orlando has many properties that sell for $350,000 and under. Besides, there’s more to living there than going to the theme parks. You can enjoy any hobby that requires sunny skies — from fishing to boating, hiking, and visiting museums and galleries.
Montura
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Montura may be the best choice for those looking for a family-friendly place. It’s small, quiet, and more affordable than Tampa or Orlando. To make things better, there are plenty of free activities you can enjoy, especially if you like the great outdoors.
Montura has trails you can hike at in Big Cypress National Preserve. And, if you love fishing, you can head to Lake Okeechobee and catch your dinner. Given its median home price of $298,000, you don’t want to miss out on Montura.
Lakeland
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Lakeland is a perfect spot to buy a home if you’re on a budget and want long-term savings. The city has the perfect combination of cultural attractions and outdoor activities. More importantly, its overall cost of living is almost 10% cheaper than the national average.
To make things better, the median value of a home in Lakeland is $313,108 — the perfect deal if your budget is under $350,000.
Edgewater
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Edgewater is another city where you can enjoy the gorgeous Florida weather and natural beauty on the cheap. Its monthly cost of living is 10% less expensive than the national average, and $297,436 can land you a home in this community.
Edgewater is also home to high-quality healthcare facilities, which makes it ideal for retirees looking to spend their golden years in Florida.
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Orange Park
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Orange Park is perfect if you enjoy a smaller-town vibe yet don’t want to sacrifice shopping and dining choices. This Clay County city is also close to Jacksonville and St. Augustine and is a retirement destination for many seniors.
This beautiful city is perfect for your budget, too — median home prices in Orange Park are $312,653 as of February 2025.
Moore Haven
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Moore Haven is ideal for families who love the great outdoors. Its proximity to Lake Okeechobee means you won’t have to go far to enjoy boating, fishing, or swimming. Besides, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to fresh produce and dining venues.
Median home values in the city are well under your $350,000 budget at $309,500.
Gainesville
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If you enjoy the vibe of a college town, Gainesville — the home of the University of Florida — is the best choice for you. Median home values in Gainesville are $292,878, and the cost of living is significantly cheaper than the national average.
This city has a lot going for it apart from being affordable. It has a vibrant nightlife and lots of opportunities for outdoor pursuits at places like the Paynes Prairie Preserve.
Pensacola
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Pensacola draws in families and retirees alike as the cheapest place to own a home in Florida by the beach. Its beautiful weather, beaches, and nature also make it a magnet for tourists.
The median home cost in Pensacola is a good $100,000 lower than your $350,000 budget at $254,255. Besides, if you move there, you’ll be able to enjoy significantly cheaper grocery prices than elsewhere in the U.S.
If you’re over 50, take advantage of massive discounts and financial resources
Over 50? Join AARP today — because if you’re not a member you could be missing out on huge perks. When you start your membership today, you can get discounts on things like travel, meal deliveries, eyeglasses, prescriptions that aren’t covered by insurance and more.
How to become a member today:
- Go here, select your free gift, and click “Join Today”
- Create your account (important!) by answering a few simple questions
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Important: Start your membership by creating an account here and filling in all of the information (Do not skip this step!) Doing so will allow you to take up 25% off your AARP membership, making it just $15 the first year with auto-renewal.
Hudson
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Hudson is another good spot in Florida for a budget of $350,000 or less. The median listing home price is $324,900 in this beach-front community.
Hudson is a magnet for families and retirees alike. It offers a variety of outdoor pursuits, festivals like the yearly Flora & Fauna celebration, and walkable areas and parks.
Bottom line
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Florida is one of the best places to live in the U.S. if you enjoy warm weather and being close to the water. While some list prices in the Sunshine State can be eye-watering, you can still find an affordable home.
If your budget is $350,000 or less, it will only take a few smart homeowner moves to prepare yourself so that you’re able to own a home in one of the charming Florida towns on this list.
Choice Home Warranty Benefits
- First month free
- Protection for unexpected expense
- 24/7 claims hotline
- Network of over 15,000 technicians
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