Here’s the Cost to Rent in These 9 Popular Florida Retirement Towns

Florida has long been a top destination for retirees. If you’re looking to move to the Sunshine state, and you want to avoid wasting money in retirement by settling down somewhere with all the amenities you want and that’s within your budget, you may want to consider renting.

Renting can offer you a lot of the perks of homeownership, without the added costs of upkeep and maintenance, which is why retirees eyeing up The Sunshine State will want to keep an eye on these 10 hotspots.

Let’s see what it costs to rent in these popular Florida retirement locations.

Average Rent: $2,700

For retirees looking to enjoy the relaxing wild nature that Florida offers, Boynton Beach offers a spot that’s removed from popular tourist spots. This town is located about 50 miles north of Miami, and just south of Palm Beach.

Art lovers will appreciate the significant amount of public art projects happening at any given time. Retirees can enjoy 55+ communities that feel like a country club. Living here gives you access to beaches and wildlife, with convenient access to big cities if and when you want to spend a night in the town.

Median Rent: $1,554

Gainesville is home to the University of Florida. A college town may seem like a strange choice for a retirement location but for active seniors — and sports fans, go Gators! — Gainesville offers plentiful entertainment, dining options, and cultural experiences.

The town offers more than a dozen auditoriums and theaters, along with several museums and nature parks. If you are looking to stay busy during retirement, Gainesville will keep you full of young energy with plenty of things to do.

Average Rent: $1,750

If you’re looking for a laid-back retirement, Lakeland is the place to be. Full of outstanding architecture and a slow-paced lifestyle, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the Florida sunshine in this inland town that is nestled in between Tampa and Orlando.

Lakeland hosts a farmer’s market every Saturday at the historic downtown center. This town also has a rich history, many beautiful parks, and is home to the largest collection of works by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Average Rent: $5,900

Naples is a popular retirement destination, affectionately known for the “snowbirds” who live there during part of the year. These residents split time between Naples and other cities or states, escaping harsh winters and taking advantage of the Florida sunshine. 

Naples is famous for its pristine beaches, high-end shopping, and world-class dining options.

With a large population of individuals aged 65 and older, Naples caters to retirees. This city is also home to numerous golf courses, fine restaurants, and art galleries, perfect for those looking to enjoy a comfortable retirement.

Average Rent: $1,725

Pensacola is located at the very end of the panhandle of Florida. It’s known for its rich military history, and it’s home to the Navy’s Blue Angels. Retirees love the neverending list of available activities. 

You could spend one day wandering around the National Museum of Naval Aviation and the next fishing for redfish or speckled trout.

This town is also famous for its white sand beaches. With plenty of access to water, you can enjoy spending time in the ocean and canoeing or kayaking on the rivers, too.

Average Rent: $2,600

Port St. Lucie is Florida’s sixth-largest city. Despite the population size, people love this area because of its access to excellent medical care and low crime rate. 

The predictable weather is another reason to love Port St. Lucie, which features average temperatures ranging from 73 to 89 degrees.

Port St. Lucie is home to 21 miles of beaches and claims to have more beach access points than any other coastal city in the entire state of Florida.

Average Rent: $3,500

Punta Gorda is a charming town with a small-town vibe and waterfront views. If you’re looking to enjoy peace and quiet during retirement, this town offers a laid-back lifestyle with many outdoor activities. Whether you want to fish, boat, or simply relax along the shoreline, Punta Gorda has it all.

With its growing number of 55+ communities, Punta Gorda provides an ideal spot for those looking for tranquility right on the water. This small town is just a short drive from Fort Myers and Sarasota, giving you quick access to big city amenities like airports.

Average Rent: $2,850

Sarasota is one of the nation's top five places to retire, according to U.S. News and World Report. Located on the Gulf Coast, Sarasota is home to a thriving performing arts scene that includes theater, ballet, and music.

For those who love the outdoors, Sarasota provides easy access to gorgeous beaches, like Siesta Key, along with plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. The city has many 55+ communities, with more than one-third of the population being over age 65.

Sarasota is an attractive place for retirees who appreciate both culture and a laid-back coastal lifestyle.

Average Rent: $2,240

For retirees who are history enthusiasts, St. Augustine is a dream come true, offering residents a mix of old world charm and modern comforts. Known as the oldest city in the U.S., this historic town is brimming with charm, cobblestone streets, and centuries-old architecture.

Retirees will enjoy the town’s rich cultural offerings, museums, and art galleries. Don’t worry, St. Augustine still offers plenty of recreational activities and beach access.

Average Rent: $2,200

St. Petersburg, which is located on Florida’s west coast, offers the perfect mix of sunny weather, outdoor recreation, and vibrant culture. The city is home to one of Florida’s most well-known beaches, Clearwater Beach, and offers plenty of boating and fishing opportunities.

St. Petersburg offers plenty of parks, walkable streets, and numerous museums and art galleries. Whether you’re looking to embrace a more active retirement or simply relax, St. Petersburg provides an ideal setting for both.

Florida’s diverse towns offer something for every type of retiree. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back, stress-free retirement or a bustling city with plenty of amenities, Florida has it all.

With great weather, a lack of income tax, and affordable living options, these towns provide the perfect setting for retirees to enjoy the next chapter of their lives.