10 Best Places to Live in Florida

By: ROS Team

There’s a reason why Florida is often called the Sunshine State. From its endless coastlines to diverse communities and warm weather, Florida appeals to people from all over the world. Whether you’re choosing Florida for the beach life, a strong job market, or a fun life without compromising affordability, Florida has a little something for everyone. But with so many best Florida cities to live in to choose from, where should you even start?

This guide is to help you choose a city in this big state that fulfills your requirements. We’re not just listing popular names for the sake of it instead, we’re taking a close look at what actually makes a city livable.

What Makes a City One of the Best in Florida?

A city can be best for some people and may not suit some at the same time. The reason is our requirement, whether we want job security or a slow and relaxed lifestyle from the city. So, the following are the common aspects that should be focused on before choosing any of the good places to live in Florida.

Cost of Living

It’s not just about how expensive a city is, it’s about whether people can actually afford to live there comfortably or not. If the cost of living aligns with what residents earn, then the place would be considered affordable.

Job Market

A thriving job market is key. We focused on the best Florida cities to live in with steady job growth, low unemployment, and a strong and diverse economy that attracts both new grads and experienced professionals from different professions.

Quality of Life

Crime rates, healthcare access, and education are the kind of factors that impact your daily life in big and small ways. So, check on such factors besides community, culture, and environment of the city to duly understand the quality of life in that city.

Community and Culture

This one’s a little subjective. We looked at how connected communities are and what the local culture scene is. It is an important factor!

Environment and Recreation

Florida is famous for its outdoorsy vibe. The best area to live in Florida are ones with proximity to parks, beaches, walkability, and an outdoorsy vibe is a green flag for those who enjoy staying active or just love nature.

Best Florida Cities to Live In

#01 Tampa

Tampa usually doesn’t get the recognition it deserves, but that’s part of its charm. Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Tampa is about a modern lifestyle with a relaxed vibe that’s hard to beat. Though the cost of living here is slightly above the national average, it is still much lower than cities like Miami.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Tampa metro area added nearly 60,000 new jobs in 2023 alone, particularly in healthcare, tech, and finance.

People love the lifestyle here. Bayshore Boulevard is one of the longest continuous sidewalks in the U.S., making it ideal for joggers and bikers. The city also offers quick access to some of the best beaches in the country. Clearwater Beach is just 40 minutes away.

#02 Gainesville

Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville has a youthful, energetic vibe. But it’s not just a college town. With a median home price around $275,000 and lower rent costs than the national average, it’s one of the more affordable options and a good place to live in Florida for young adults starting out.

According to data from the U.S. News, Gainesville’s healthcare system ranks among the top in the state.

If you’re a nature lover, Gainesville’s freshwater springs and forest preserves are there to welcome you. Paynes Prairie is a local favorite for weekend hikes and spotting wildlife. What makes Gainesville special is how well it combines brainy academia with outdoorsy soul.

#03 Sarasota

You might think Sarasota is only for retirees, but there’s more to this Gulf Coast city than just shuffleboard and sunsets. In fact, Sarasota has quietly built a reputation as one of Florida’s most culturally rich cities. The Ringling Museum, Sarasota Opera House, and multiple art galleries make the city’s arts scene no less than some big metro areas.

Sarasota has a strong healthcare system and was ranked by U.S. News & World Report as the top place to retire in 2022. But it’s also attracting younger professionals thanks to its growing startup scene and work-from-home appeal.

#04 Orlando

Orlando is known for theme parks. But if you look closer, the city has evolved into a hub for healthcare, aviation, simulation tech, and education. AdventHealth and Lockheed Martin are two of the area’s largest employers, and the region is expected to grow by nearly 25% over the next decade.

The median household income is around $60,000, and though housing has become expensive here now it’s still more manageable than South Florida. Plus, the city also has an International Airport, which makes traveling easy both for business and other purposes.

#05 St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg is rightly nicknamed “Sunshine City,” as it is known for having an average of 361 sunny days a year. But it’s not just the weather that draws people in, it’s the artsy and relaxed vibe that also counts here. Murals cover the downtown walls, indie coffee shops line Central Avenue, and the local breweries are some of the best in the state.

The city is also bike-friendly and has one of the lowest violent crime rates among Florida’s large cities.

Plus, with average home prices hovering around $400,000, it’s still more affordable than nearby Miami or Naples. So, in this budget, staying close to party capital Miami is a good deal.

#06 Naples

Naples is about as close as you can get to luxury living without leaving the state. With its clear water beaches, top-notch golf courses, and world-class dining, it attracts an exclusive crowd.

The downside? It’s expensive. The median home price is above $600,000, but if you can afford it, the perks justify the price.

Naples consistently ranks high for cleanliness, safety, and overall life satisfaction. In a recent Gallup survey, residents reported some of the highest well-being scores in the nation. That’s some convincing fact.

#07 Tallahassee

Often overshadowed by other cities, Tallahassee has a lot to offer. As the state capital and home to Florida State University, it brings together government, education, and southern charm. The cost of living is low, and the city is surrounded by state parks and natural trails.

It’s also relatively safe and has an inclusive community feel, something that’s hard to find in bigger cities. Tallahassee’s local economy is steady, secured by government jobs and a growing tech sector.

#08 Fort Myers

Fort Myers is one of those cities that’s quietly transformed over the past decade. What used to be a quiet Gulf Coast town is now one of Florida’s fastest-growing metro areas. Between 2020 and 2023, the city saw a population increase of nearly 11%, according to U.S. Census estimates. That’s not just a random increase, it’s driven by a rising job market, improved infrastructure, and some of the most beautiful beaches on the Gulf.

Median home prices are still under $400,000, and the overall cost of living is manageable compared to other coastal Florida cities. Plus, Fort Myers has a solid public school system and a growing healthcare sector, making it great for both families and retirees.

#09 Pensacola

Pensacola probably does not come to our mind when we imagine Florida, but it is one of the best areas to live in. Hidden in the Florida Panhandle, it’s got a coastal Southern charm that gives more of an Alabama or Georgia vibe with all the Florida perks.

This city stands out for its affordability. The median home price is well below $300,000, and everyday living expenses are modest compared to the rest of the state.

It also has a strong military presence, thanks to the Naval Air Station, which anchors a steady local economy.

And when it comes to beaches, Pensacola has white sand, clear water, and less crowded beaches. In other words, if you’re looking for Florida’s lifestyle without the traffic and tourist chaos, Pensacola is for you.

#10 Lakeland

Located almost directly between Tampa and Orlando, Lakeland has become a strategic choice for those who want access to two major cities without the hustle or housing prices of big cities.

Lakeland is about a peaceful, suburban feel, thanks to its several lakes, giving it a. It also has a surprisingly artsy downtown district, complete with coffeehouses and local theaters.

Thanks to a booming logistics industry — Amazon, Publix, and others have massive distribution centers here, making the job market solid, especially for warehouse, tech, and operations roles.

The best thing about Lakeland is that you can still find a single-family home for around $300,000. In Florida, that’s increasingly rare.

Best Areas to Live In Florida: FAQs

What’s the Most Affordable City to Live In Florida Right Now?

Pensacola and Gainesville stand out if you’re looking for affordability without sacrificing too much. Both cities have a lower cost of living, affordable rent prices, and decent job markets. Lakeland is another strong option because you live close to big cities like Tampa and Orlando without spending too much.

Which Florida City Is Best for Young Professionals?

Tampa and Orlando are ideal for young professionals because both have strong economies, good networking scenes, and a mix of tech, healthcare, finance, and hospitality career opportunities.

Where Can I Find the Best Weather in Florida?

Florida, in general, has warm weather, but St. Petersburg stands out for having some of the most consistent sunshine. St. Petersburg averages around 361 sunny days per year. The weather also depends on which part of Florida you are living in. If you’re trying to avoid constant rain or humidity, stick to the Gulf Coast cities rather than South Florida.

What City in Florida Is Best for Retirees?

Sarasota and Naples are ideal for retirees. They offer great healthcare access, a peaceful atmosphere, and active senior communities. Both cities have been named in various retirement rankings over the past few years for good reason.