The Most Affordable Beach Towns to Live in Florida (Part 1)
The beautiful Florida coast, with its pleasant climate and relaxing lifestyle, attracts many people looking to live near the beach. However, the high cost of real estate in some of Florida’s most popular coastal cities makes it difficult for those seeking affordable beachfront living.
The good news? There are still hidden gems in Florida where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea without going over budget.
In this two-part series, we’ll look at some of Florida’s most affordable beach towns, each with its own distinct charm, lifestyle, and cost-effective housing options. Whether you’re a retiree, a young professional, or a remote worker, these towns offer the ideal balance of coastal beauty and affordability.
1. Pensacola.
- Why live here? Pensacola, renowned for its white sandy beaches, rich history, and military presence, combines small-town charm with big-city amenities. It is home to Naval Air Station Pensacola, which makes it popular among military families and retirees.
- Lifestyle and attractions:
- Pensacola Beach offers stunning Gulf Coast views.
- Explore the historic Seville Quarter and the National Naval Aviation Museum.
- Enjoy outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
- Cost of Living: The median home price is around $294,808 (Suburbs101).
2. Fort Pierce
- Why live here? Fort Pierce, also known as the “Sunrise City,” is a low-cost coastal town with a historic downtown, a thriving arts scene, and great fishing. It provides a relaxed lifestyle with less traffic than Miami or Orlando.
- Lifestyle and attractions:
- The Downtown Fort Pierce Farmers’ Market is a local favorite.
- Visit the Navy SEAL Museum, which honors the elite military unit.
- Enjoy the Indian River Lagoon, a popular fishing and boating destination.
- Cost of living: About 10-15% less than Miami and other South Florida cities.
3. New Smyrna Beach
- Why live here? Less crowded than Daytona, New Smyrna Beach is a top choice for surfers, artists, and outdoor enthusiasts yet still provides a rich coastal culture.
- Lifestyle & Attractions:
- With some of Florida’s best waves, a surfing hotspot.
- Canal Street Historic District features local shops and art galleries.
- Miles of preserved beaches and hiking paths abound at Canaveral National Seashore.
- Cost of Living: More reasonably priced than neighboring Jacksonville and Miami.
4. Gulfport
- Why live here? Gulfport, a quirky, artistic town close to St. Petersburg, is well-known for its affordable, creativeenergy and close-knit community. For those seeking a more laid-back beach living, it’s a fantastic substitute for Sarasota and Tampa.
- Lifestyle & Attractions:
- Every month the Gulfport Art Walk features regional artists.
- There are lovely paths and picnic grounds at Clymer Park.
- At Gulfport Casino Ballroom, savor live music and events.
- Cost of living: About 10% less than Sarasota and St. Petersburg.
5. Mexico Beach:
- Why live here? Mexico Beach, a small town beach, provides uncrowded shorelines and amazing sunsets. Rebuilding the town with an eye toward maintaining its laid-back, natural beauty has started since Hurricane Michael (2018).
- Lifestyle & Attractions:
- Excellent place for boating and deep-sea fishing.
- Hiking and camping are best suited for St. Joseph Peninsula State Park.
- Popular seafood and gift shop Shell Shack is found here.
- Cost of Living: Significantly lower than other Gulf Coast cities.
Enjoy a taste of low-cost beach living in one of these five charming Florida towns, each with its own set of advantages to your way of life. There’s a reasonably priced beach town that would be ideal for you, whether your taste is for the small-town vibe of Fort Pierce, the surfer’s paradise of New Smyrna Beach, or Pensacola’s classic appeal.
Still, the list does not stop here. Part 2 will feature five more hidden treasures—Cedar Key, Port St. Joe, St. Augustine Beach—all of which provide reasonably priced waterfront living.
