7 Affordable Florida Cities Where You Can Retire on $1,800 or Less a Month

Florida often tops the list of the best places to retire. The sun and sand make it an easy place to live out your days, but it's more than just the weather that draws retirees. The Sunshine State is one of the most tax-friendly states, too, which allows you to keep more of your money in your wallet.

But one of the best money moves is also finding a place to retire within your housing budget. FinanceBuzz looked at 180 cities across the U.S. and evaluated them based on affordability. Here are the best Florida cities to spend your golden years on a monthly housing budget of $1,800 or less.

Editor's note: Housing prices are sourced from Redfin. 

Median monthly mortgage: $1,453

This town from the FinanceBuzz study is located in the heart of central Florida. Sebring offers a lower cost of living than other places in the Sunshine State, and the median home price is $219,990. It's known for a tight-knit community and natural beauty, and sports enthusiasts may know the city for its annual 12-hour car race.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,613

Ocala is a popular retirement spot, especially with golf lovers. This quiet community is packed with world-class golf resorts, hiking and biking trails, and plenty of access to water. There are plenty of 55+ communities, and the average home price is around $264,900. This makes Ocala an ideal option for retirees on a budget.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,489

Homosassa Springs is known for its incredible access to wildlife. Whether you're interested in fishing or want to spot local species, the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park is your direct access to abundant wildlife. The median home price is $230,000, making this small town affordable for retirees.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,742

The capital city of Florida is a great spot for active retirees. This city offers plenty to do and see, with restaurants, shopping, and cultural attractions. The median home price is higher in Tallahassee than in some other towns in Florida, but at $289,000, it could still be budget-friendly.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,774

Retirees looking to stay active and social will love The Villages. With plenty of amenities, residents can enjoy clubs, activities, and events. Many communities here are all-inclusive, giving residents access to pools and golf courses, which accounts for the higher home cost. The median home price in The Villages is around $340,000.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,740

While many people may not consider a college town an ideal place for retirement, Gainesville offers plenty for retirees to do. The University of Florida hosts an abundance of sporting events, and the city itself offers many parks and museums to keep you busy during retirement. Median home prices hover around $230,000, which is well below the national average.

Median monthly mortgage: $1,774

Homebuyers looking for a relaxed, small-town feel with easy access to modern conveniences will appreciate Wildwood. This growing community offers a mix of new developments and established neighborhoods, with nearby shopping, dining, and outdoor recreation. The median home price in Wildwood is around $293,500, making it an appealing option for those seeking location and ways to eliminate some money stress. 

Whether you're looking for beachfront living or want to enjoy an active social life, the Sunshine State offers a budget-friendly option for nearly any type of retirement lifestyle. From affordable monthly housing costs to tax benefits that can stretch your retirement dollars further, Florida is ideal for many.

And if you want to keep a second home in your current city, you only need to reside in Florida for 183 days out of the year to be considered a resident.