News & Trending Mortgage & Loans News

Realtors Predict House Prices Will Skyrocket In These 16 Popular Florida Towns

Some of the cities may not be on your radar yet.

By Chris Adam

Edited by Lauren Wellbank

Updated Feb. 16, 2025

If you ask many people why they want to move to Florida, you’re likely to hear something about the nice weather.

If you’re looking to make a move to The Sunshine State so you can enjoy all that weather it’s famous for, it can help you lower your financial stress to know where house prices are about to rise so you can get in a new home before the cost to purchase goes up.

We talked to real estate experts about popular Florida towns where house prices may skyrocket, including some areas where the cost of living may be lower than you expect.

Steal this billionaire wealth-building technique

The ultra-rich have also been investing in art from big names like Picasso and Bansky for centuries. And it's for a good reason: Contemporary art prices have outpaced the S&P 500 by 136% over the last 27 years.

A new company called Masterworks is now allowing everyday investors to get in on this type of previously-exclusive investment. You can buy a small slice of $1-$30 million paintings from iconic artists, all without needing any art expertise.

If you have at least $10k to invest and are ready to explore diversifying beyond stocks and bonds,see what Masterworks has on offer. (Hurry, they often sell out!)

Miami

Many of the realtors and agents we talked to mentioned Miami as a top town where housing prices are expected to skyrocket. According to Russell Diehl, a REALTOR® and broker with Arizona Network Realty, the Miami area is projected to see a 24% increase in existing home sales and a 9% increase in prices. Diehl says the median home price is approximately $410,700, slightly below the national median.

“Miami’s appeal stems from a robust economy, cultural diversity, and coastal amenities,” Diehl continued.

Want to learn how to build wealth like the 1%? Sign up for Worthy to get ideas and advice delivered to your inbox.

Fort Lauderdale

If you’re looking at Miami, you might want to consider Fort Lauderdale. Diehl predicted similar increases in sales and prices for Fort Lauderdale as in Miami.

“Florida's absence of state income tax makes it financially appealing, though homeowners should be mindful of rising insurance premiums due to climate-related risks,” according to Diehl.

Orlando

Along with Miami, Orlando is another Florida town frequently mentioned by the agents and brokers we spoke with. According to Diehl, the median home price is around $442,500, with a moderate cost of living.

“Ranked sixth among top housing markets, this region is expected to see a 15.2% increase in sales and a 12.1% rise in median sale price,” says Diehl. “The presence of major theme parks and a growing entertainment sector enhance its attractiveness.”

Get a free stock valued between $5 to $200

Secret: You don't need thousands of dollars to buy thousand-dollar stocks or create a diverse portfolio.

Robinhood offers a method of investing called “fractional shares.” On its own, one share of a single stock could cost a lot of money, making it difficult to diversify. Robinhood allows you to buy pieces of stock instead, so you have the option to build a diverse portfolio quickly.

Let’s say you want to invest $250, as an example.

With that amount, you could build a relatively diverse portfolio with an investment of $50 in a big tech stock, $50 in a retail stock, $50 in an energy stock, $50 in a manufacturing stock, and $50 in a bank.¹ This content is for informational purposes only, you should not construe any such information as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. To get stock reward, new customers need to sign up, get approved, and link their bank account. Stock rewards shares cannot be sold until 3 trading days after the reward is granted and the cash value of the stock rewards may not be withdrawn for 30 days after the reward is claimed. Stock rewards not claimed within 60 days may expire. See full terms and conditions at <a href="https://robinhood.com/us/en/support/articles/open-account-pick-your-stock/">rbnhd.co/freestock</a>. Fractional shares are illiquid outside of Robinhood and are not transferable. Not all securities available through Robinhood are eligible for fractional share orders. For a complete explanation of conditions, restrictions and limitations associated with fractional shares, see the Fractional Shares section of our Customer Agreement. Robinhood Gold is offered through Robinhood Financial LLC and is a membership offering premium services available for a fee.

Even better news? Add a Robinhood Gold membership, and you’ll get access to 4.00% (as of 12/27/24) APY² Annual Percentage Yield. Rate valid as of April 12, 2024. To earn interest, a cash balance is needed. If you have a margin balance, there is no cash balance to earn interest. Interest rates for cash sweep and margin investing can change at any time. Fees may reduce interest earnings. on your uninvested cash³ Interest is earned on uninvested cash swept from your brokerage account to partner banks. Partner banks pay interest on your swept cash, minus any fees paid to Robinhood. As of Nov 15, 2023, the Annual Percentage Yield (APY) that you will receive is 1.5%, or 5% for Gold customers. The APY might change at any time at the partner banks' or Robinhood's discretion. Additionally, any fees Robinhood receives may vary and are subject to change. Neither Robinhood Financial LLC nor any of its affiliates are banks. All investments involve risk and loss of principal is possible. Robinhood Financial LLC (member SIPC), is a registered broker dealer. and the ability to buy and sell stocks 24 hours a day, 5 days a week.

Open and fund a Robinhood account and earn up to $200 in stock

Jacksonville

Here’s another place of projected growth, according to Diehl, who says Jacksonville residents can expect to see a 23.3% increase. That likely has a lot to do with all that Jacksonville has to offer, which includes a strong job market, affordable housing options, and a growing population.

“With a median home price of about $401,400, Jacksonville offers relatively affordable housing,” Diehl says. “The cost of living is lower compared to other major Florida cities, and the absence of state income tax adds to its financial appeal.”

Cape Coral

According to Keith McCoy, owner and founder of Midtown Homebuyers in Milton, Florida, Cape Coral is one of the fastest-growing cities in Florida.

“I believe home prices are going to rise quickly,” says McCoy. “More people are moving there for jobs, lower cost of living, and waterfront properties.”

While McCoy says the city is still more affordable than places like Miami or Tampa, demand is pushing prices up fast.

Not only that, but with a cost of living that is lower than in larger cities, and Florida's lack of state income tax, homestead exemptions, and local business incentives, McCoy says this region is a smart place to invest.

Tampa

“Tampa is another city to watch,” according to Judi Kutner, a licensed real estate associate and a senior contributor at Virtual Staging. “It’s growing quickly, with strong job markets in healthcare and tech driving people to move there.”

Kutner says it’s a city that balances urban amenities with affordability, especially compared to Miami. According to Kutner, families especially are drawn to Tampa because the cost of living is more manageable, and it offers a great quality of life with waterfront views and a lot of redevelopment happening downtown.

Grow Your $$: 11 brilliant ways to build wealth after 40

Port Charlotte

Wesley Kang, founder of Realtor 1099 Cafe, has his eyes on Port Charlotte.

“Tech companies are quietly buying land there for data centers because of the fiber optic infrastructure,” he says. “Median prices still hover at $350,000 but I'm watching property values jump 15% just in early 2025. The smart money's moving in before the tech announcements go public.”

Winter Garden

Kang says Winter Garden is another place that’s attracting attention, but not for the obvious reasons.

“My clients are snapping up properties there because it's one of the few Florida markets with both strong short-term rental returns and no new rental restrictions,” he says. “I just helped an investor buy at $425,000 and they're already clearing $4,000 monthly on short-term rentals. Plus their property tax rate's locked at 0.8%.”

Stuart

“There’s something big happening in Stuart that nobody's talking about,” Kang says. “They just approved massive tax incentives for biotech companies. I've got three corporate clients moving operations there because operating costs are 40% lower than Miami.”

While he notes that home prices still sit at $400,000, he says that he’s watching inventory disappear as company relocations ramp up.

Earn up to a $300 bonus and grow your money with up to 3.80% APY

This powerful combination checking + savings account from SoFi® allows you to earn up to a $300 bonus with direct deposit and grow your money with up to 3.80% APY.⁴ New and existing Checking and Savings members who have not previously enrolled in Direct Deposit with SoFi are eligible to earn a cash bonus of either $50 (with at least $1,000 total Direct Deposits received during the Direct Deposit Bonus Period) OR $300 (with at least $5,000 total Direct Deposits received during the Direct Deposit Bonus Period). Cash bonus will be based on the total amount of Direct Deposit. Direct Deposit Promotion begins on 12/7/2023 and will be available through 1/31/2026. See full bonus and annual percentage yield (APY) terms at <a href="http://www.sofi.com/banking#1">sofi.com/banking#1</a>. SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A., Member FDIC. SoFi members who enroll in SoFi Plus with Direct Deposit or by paying the SoFi Plus Subscription Fee every 30 days or with $5,000 or more in Qualifying Deposits during the 30-Day Evaluation Period can earn 3.80% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. Members without either SoFi Plus or Qualifying Deposits, during the 30-Day Evaluation Period will earn 1.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Only SoFi Plus members are eligible for other SoFi Plus benefits. Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of Jan. 24, 2025. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at <a href="http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet">http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet</a>. See the SoFi Plus Terms and Conditions at <a href="https://www.sofi.com/terms-of-use/#plus">https://www.sofi.com/terms-of-use/#plus</a>.

This is one of the top accounts we’ve seen, and offers like this can be rare. You work hard, and now it’s time to make your money work for you — with SoFi, you can grow your money with hardly any effort!

SoFi has no account fees⁵ We do not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. We do charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Checking & Savings Fee Sheet for details at <a href="http://sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/">sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/</a> or overdraft fees⁶ Overdraft Coverage is limited to $50 on debit card purchases only and is an account benefit available to customers with direct deposits of $1,000 or more during the current 30-day Evaluation Period as determined by SoFi Bank, N.A.  The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the "Start Date" and "End Date" set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the "30-Day Evaluation Period"). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY.  Members with a prior history of non-repayment of negative balances are ineligible for Overdraft Coverage. and additional FDIC insurance up to $3 million on deposits is available through a seamless network of participating banks.⁷ SoFi Bank is a member FDIC and does not provide more than $250,000 of FDIC insurance per depositor per legal category of account ownership, as described in the FDIC’s regulations. Any additional FDIC insurance is provided by the SoFi Insured Deposit Program. Deposits may be insured up to $3M through participation in the program. See full terms at <a href="http://sofi.com/banking/fdic/sidpterms">SoFi.com/banking/fdic/sidpterms</a>. See list of participating banks at <a href="http://sofi.com/banking/fdic/participatingbanks">SoFi.com/banking/fdic/participatingbanks</a>. Plus, you can receive your paycheck up to 2 days early.⁸ Early access to direct deposit funds is based on the timing in which we receive notice of impending payment from the Federal Reserve, which is typically up to two days before the scheduled payment date, but may vary.

How to earn up to $300: Sign up and make a direct deposit within the first 25 calendar days of the promotional period, then collect a $300 cash bonus with a direct deposit of $5,000 or more.

SoFi is a Member, FDIC. ⁷ SoFi Bank is a member FDIC and does not provide more than $250,000 of FDIC insurance per depositor per legal category of account ownership, as described in the FDIC’s regulations. Any additional FDIC insurance is provided by the SoFi Insured Deposit Program. Deposits may be insured up to $3M through participation in the program. See full terms at <a href="http://sofi.com/banking/fdic/sidpterms">SoFi.com/banking/fdic/sidpterms</a>. See list of participating banks at <a href="http://sofi.com/banking/fdic/participatingbanks">SoFi.com/banking/fdic/participatingbanks</a>.

Open your SoFi account and set up direct deposit

Sarasota

When it comes to Florida towns poised for significant growth, Jonathan Faccone, founder of Halo Homebuyers, says Sarasota is a prime example of what’s to come.

“It’s known for its vibrant arts scene and world-class beaches, making it increasingly popular among retirees and remote workers,” Faccone says. “The current median home price in Sarasota stands at around $380,000, with a steady annual appreciation, hinting at a promising investment opportunity.

Doral

Doral has an economic and lifestyle appeal that makes it poised to see house prices skyrocket, according to Faccone.

“Another city on the rise is Doral, renowned for its strong job market and proximity to Miami's bustling business districts,” Faccone says. “This area attracts a young, professional demographic, driving demand for residential properties.

Doral's strategic location and robust local economy, according to Faccone. That, coupled with a median home price of approximately $360,000, make it a compelling choice for both investors and homebuyers.

St. Petersburg

When it comes to tax advantages and growth potential, Faccone says St. Petersburg is a place to look.

“Cities like St. Petersburg offer unique tax benefits, such as no state income tax, which, when combined with an affordable cost of living and growing tech industry, make it an attractive option for newcomers,” Facone says. “St. Petersburg’s focus on sustainable living and green spaces also enhances its allure, reflecting a broader trend towards eco-conscious living spaces.”

Supercharge your investments: See what could happen if you add fine art to your investment portfolio

Palm Beach

According to Aleks Grigoriev, a real estate expert and co-founder of Sell My House Fast LV, Palm Beach is set to see higher prices as it’s an area that attracts affluent buyers seeking upscale amenities, pristine beaches, and a higher standard of living.

“The cost of living is significantly higher than the national average, reflecting the area's exclusivity and luxury offerings,” according to Grigoriev. “While benefiting from no state income tax, property taxes are considerable due to high property values.”

Palm Bay

Grigoriev says affordability, along with a proximity to Florida’s Space Coast, makes the Palm Bay area an attractive option for both aerospace professionals and retirees seeking a coastal lifestyle.

“The area is expected to see a combined increase of 10.4% in existing home sales and median sales prices in 2025,” he says. “As of late 2024, the median sales price was approximately $300,000.

North Port

“Known for its beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, cultural amenities, and a growing arts scene, this area appeals to both retirees and young professionals,” according to Grigoriev.

The North Port part of Florida is expected to see a 9.5% increase in existing home sales and median sales prices in 2025, according to Grigoriev.

Clearwater

Clearwater is another area with a lot going for it, according to Grigoriev. “This region boasts a robust job market, diverse cultural attractions, and a favorable climate, making it a desirable location for families and professionals alike.”

Grigoriev says that there’s a 9.6% increase in existing home sales and median sales prices forecasted for 2025.

Bottom line

Owning a home in a sunny state like Florida is a dream for many people, whether they’re buying a place for themselves or looking to earn extra income with an investment property. Some popular Florida towns are expected to see house prices skyrocket in 2025.

You can maximize your retirement savings, and still enjoy all Florida has to offer, by looking now before those prices go up.

More from FinanceBuzz:

Build passive income with shares of rental homes

Ark7 - Real Estate Investing Benefits

Invest in cash-flow-generating, professionally managed rental properties without having to buy the whole property
Sell shares at will at no cost
3% sourcing fee and 8-15% monthly management fee
$20 minimum investment
Ark7 investors have earned 5%+ annualized distributions from monthly income alone⁹ The 5%+ return is the portfolio average and is based on figures since Q4 2022.

Get started

Author Details

Chris Adam

Chris Adam is a seasoned personal finance, technology, and general assignment journalist. As a broadcast and digital journalist, he's served as a leader in network and local newsrooms. Some of his favorite topics to write about include investing, shopping, retail, and stocks.