9 Florida Cities Where a Couple Can Live on Nothing But Social Security

A stress-free retirement is the goal for every older adult, and having adequate income is the key to manifesting one. Fortunately, Social Security, which averages to $3,089 per month for a couple in 2025, can ensure you're able to pay your bills with a little disposable income left over.

Of course, that means you have to retire in the right place. While Florida is arguably the most popular state for retirees, not every city offers affordable living. That's why we put together a list of nine places where you can live on your Social Security alone while still enjoying all of those perks that make Florida so popular in the first place.

Editor's note: Unless otherwise noted, Apartments.com provided all rent figures, and all home prices were pulled from Zillow.

Average rent: $743

Average home price: 240,793

Just an hour east of Sarasota's famous beaches is Arcadia, a city of 8,000 on the Peace River. Outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and horseback riding are big here, as is rodeo culture. You'll also find affordable communities for older adults and a cute downtown for strolling.

The cost of living is 9% below the national average in Arcadia, with notably low housing costs.

Average rent: $1,249

Average home price: $302,061

The cost of living in Gainesville is 5% below the national average and 7% below the Florida average. Retirees here get great health care thanks to the facilities that belong to the University of Florida, which also gives the city its college town flavor.

Abundant and enchanting natural springs in the area provide top-tier outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing away from crowded beaches.

Average rent: $1,076

Average home price: $304,910

Housing, transportation, and health care costs are notably lower than the national average in Haines City, which is 8.4% lower overall. Senior living communities are abundant, and more than 30% of the population is comprised of older adults.

Golf aficionados and Disney fans will enjoy living in this small city that's under an hour's drive from Orlando.

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Average rent: $1,309

Average home price: $288,418

Jacksonville ranks high in cities to retire overall due to affordability, its burgeoning culinary scene, outdoor activities like golf, and proximity to the Atlantic Coast. Jax also gets high marks for its parks and high number of doctors.

This city of over one million souls is 8% cheaper than the national average, with notably lower health care and transportation costs.

Average rent: $1,318

Average home price: $315,628

Roughly a fifth of the population of Lakeland is 65 or older, meaning a sense of community awaits in this city of over 120,000. As its name suggests, there are ample lakes in this area, as well as parks and outdoor activities. The vibe is small town, but Tampa and Orlando are just a car ride away.

Housing and transportation are notably cheaper than the state and national average, while the overall cost of living is 8.4% lower.

Average rent: $477

Average home price: $253,183

Midway between Jacksonville and Tallahassee is this city of 7,200, perfect for those who seek a small-town spirit. Abundant rivers and state parks promise outdoor activities, while the nearby Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park hosts major cultural events.

The overall cost of living is well below the national average, and one of the lowest on this list, according to Life in North Florida.

Average rent: $1,293

Average home price: $273,680

Ocala is one of the most popular retirement destinations in Florida thanks to its low cost of living, outdoor activities in the Ocala National Forest, plentiful health care, and hurricane resilience. Affordable housing isn't hard to find, including in 55+ communities.

Utilities, health care, and food are also cheaper than the national average in Ocala, which is around 11% lower than the national average, according to the Economic Research Institute. This is a great way to keep more cash in your wallet for everyday expenses. 

Average rent: $1,204

Average home price: $292,963

Utilities, food, transportation, and housing are all low in Tallahassee, which makes this an appealing spot for couples trying to live on a budget. Two universities offer recreational opportunities and other services, including Florida State University's senior program, Olli.

Florida's capital also boasts two renowned hospitals and offers urban living without being overwhelming. As an added bonus, sparkling Gulf beaches are only 22 miles away.

Average rent: $1,162

Average home price: $272,183

You may have heard of Cocoa Beach, and Titusville is just to its north, about an hour east of Orlando. That means Atlantic beaches are in your backyard, rocket launches provide regular thrills, and outdoor activities, including bioluminescent kayaking, are plentiful.

If you want to make the right moves in retirement without sacrificing the amenities you want, each of these Florida cities is a viable place to call home. Your Social Security will cover the bills, and the services, resources, and perks will ensure you're content and cared for.

Even if you do decide to pick up a side hustle, the lack of state income tax in Florida means you'll enjoy keeping that much more of your earnings. That's just one more reason the Sunshine State is so popular among retirees.