Florida renters continue to face some of the highest housing costs in the country. As of our mid-2025 data, the statewide average rent is $2,540, compared to the national average of $2,102. That puts the state of Florida at about 20% more expensive than the U.S. overall, with coastal metros like Miami and Fort Lauderdale pulling up the average.

Renters looking to save will find that not every Florida city is out of reach, though, especially in areas like Dade City and Silver Springs. Our guide spotlights eight of the most affordable Florida rental markets, where average rents fall well below the state figure while still offering access to jobs, culture, and lifestyle perks.

Key Insights: Florida’s Most Affordable Cities

Overall Insight: Florida’s most affordable rental markets cut $900–$1,600 off the average monthly rent, giving renters meaningful savings while keeping access to jobs, culture, and lifestyle perks.

Data-Backed: Why Our Picks Matter

If you’re trying to score a better deal in Florida, scanning the latest apartment list prices isn’t enough. Verified rent averages help paint a more accurate picture of affordability and prevent wasted tours or sticker shock.

By focusing on neighborhood and city-level data, we highlight the areas where renters can actually expect to save. This transparency also makes it easier to budget for the cost of living in Florida, including utilities and transportation.

Sources We Used for 2025 Rent Figures

We combined multiple trusted sources to capture Florida’s rental landscape:

• Apartment List Rent Data (September 2025): Average rents for larger metros, including Tallahassee and Jacksonville.
• RentCafe Market Data (August 2025): Average rents for smaller cities like Ocala, Bartow, and Dade City.
• CrimeGrade.org (August 2025): Crime data reflects city-level scores in the A to A+ range, indicating lower-than-average crime compared to other U.S. cities.

All of these figures reflect average rent across all unit types and were normalized to account for outliers caused by temporary concessions or limited inventory.

How Apartment List Calculates True Affordability

Apartment List defines True Affordability as the share of income renters spend on rent, targeting a comfort threshold of ≤30%.

Formula: (Average Rent ÷ Average Renter Income) × 100

By looking beyond raw rent prices, this measure shows how livable a city is relative to wages and recurring costs like utilities and fees.

8 Most Affordable Florida Cities for Renters

Overall Insight: Florida’s most affordable rental markets cut $900–$1,600 off the average monthly rent, giving renters meaningful savings while keeping access to jobs, culture, and lifestyle perks.

Dade City

• Average rent across all units: $979
• Walk score: 72
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 56
• Map of Dade City

Northeast of Tampa, Dade City is Florida’s most affordable rental market, with average rents under $1,000. The city is known for its historic downtown, antique shops, and local festivals that give it a distinctive small-town feel. Despite its size, it offers direct access to I-75, making commutes to Tampa or Wesley Chapel possible for those working in larger metros.

Renters here trade urban density for affordability and a slower pace of life. Families are drawn to its low housing costs and community feel, while retirees appreciate the walkable historic center. Though transit options are limited, renters find the value hard to beat in today’s Florida market.

Find your ideal rental in Dade City today.

Silver Springs

• Average rents across all units: $1,191
• Walk score: n/a
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: n/a
• Map of Silver Springs

Located just outside Ocala, Silver Springs is best known for its natural springs and nearby state park. Glass-bottom boat rides, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife make it a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and eco-tourists. Despite its popularity with visitors, housing costs remain surprisingly low, offering one of the best affordability values in Central Florida.

This area is ideal for renters who want to stay close to nature without giving up access to a metro hub. Public transit is minimal, but most residents rely on cars to reach jobs in nearby Ocala. With its unique mix of recreation and low rents, Silver Springs is a rare find in Florida’s competitive housing market.

Find your ideal rental in Silver Springs today.

Palatka

• Average rent across all units: $1,334
• Walk score: 59
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 63
• Map of Palatka

Located along the St. Johns River in Northeast Florida, Palatka combines historic charm with affordable rents well below the statewide average of $2,540. The city is known for its scenic riverfront, annual Azalea Festival, and access to parks and trails, including Ravine Gardens State Park. With average rents around $1,334, Palatka offers value while keeping renters within reach of larger job centers in Jacksonville and Gainesville.

Renters here enjoy a slower pace of life, small-town amenities, and plenty of outdoor recreation. While transit options are limited, the city’s affordability and cultural character make it an appealing choice for families, retirees, and anyone seeking budget-friendly housing in a scenic setting.

Find your ideal rental in Palatka today.

Green Cove Springs

• Average rent across all units: $1,344
• Walk score: n/a
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: n/a
• Map of Green Cove Springs

South of Jacksonville along the St. Johns River, Green Cove Springs is an affordable small city with riverfront charm. Parks, boat ramps, and the namesake spring make it a family-friendly destination for those who want both recreation and value. The town’s slower pace and affordable rents stand in sharp contrast to Jacksonville’s rising housing costs.

Many renters here commute into Jacksonville, making it a smart option for those who work in the metro but want lower housing expenses. With rents averaging around $1,344, Green Cove Springs delivers a budget-friendly alternative that still keeps renters connected to big-city jobs and amenities.

Find your ideal rental in Green Cove Springs today.

Ocala

• Average rent across all units: $1,551
• Walk score: 27
• Transit score: 18
• Bike score: 42
• Map of Ocala

Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Ocala blends equestrian culture with affordability. Scenic horse farms, sprawling trails, and a steadily revitalizing downtown define its appeal. Renters benefit from costs that fall far below Florida’s statewide average, making Ocala a practical choice for those priced out of nearby Orlando.

Families, retirees, and remote workers alike find Ocala’s lifestyle and cost mix appealing. While public transit is sparse, the city’s location between Gainesville and Orlando makes it versatile for commuters and those who want regional access. Affordable housing paired with a welcoming community makes Ocala one of Florida’s most livable cheap cities.

Find your ideal rental in Ocala today.

Tallahassee

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,292
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,497
• Walk score: 30
• Transit score: 30
• Bike score: 45
• Map of Tallahassee

Florida’s capital city stands out as one of the state’s most affordable large metros. Anchored by Florida State University and Florida A&M, Tallahassee blends government stability with vibrant college-town culture. Renters enjoy below-average housing costs compared to the state, plus an active arts scene and plenty of green space.

The mix of student renters, young professionals, and families creates a diverse community. While its job market is smaller than Miami or Tampa, affordability and a growing downtown make Tallahassee a strong choice for those seeking budget-friendly big-city amenities.

Find your ideal rental in Tallahassee today.

Bartow

• Average rent across all units: $1,646
• Walk score: 26
• Transit score: n/a
• Bike score: 43
• Map of Bartow

Located between Tampa and Orlando, Bartow offers suburban affordability within commuting distance of two of Florida’s largest metros. Its historic districts, small shops, and slower pace appeal to renters who want a quieter lifestyle. Average rents sit around $1,600, well below the state average, making it a realistic option for budget-conscious families.

Proximity to I-4 gives Bartow an advantage for those working in larger job centers. While it lacks the density of Tampa or Orlando, renters benefit from cost savings and a strong sense of community. It’s a city that provides access without the expense of living directly in the metro core.

Find your ideal rental in Bartow today.

Jacksonville

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,445
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,701
• Walk score: 26
• Transit score: 21
• Bike score: 41
• Map of Jacksonville

Jacksonville is Florida’s largest city by land area and one of its most affordable big metros. Average rents are well below the state figure, even as the city offers urban amenities, cultural attractions, and miles of Atlantic coastline. Neighborhoods like Arlington, Mandarin, and the Westside give renters a variety of budget-friendly housing choices.

The city’s growing economy in healthcare, logistics, and tech makes it especially appealing for young professionals. Add in access to beaches, the St. Johns River, and a revitalized downtown, and Jacksonville becomes one of the most well-rounded, affordable cities in Florida.

Find your ideal rental in Jacksonville today.

How These Cities Compare on Daily Life

Florida’s most affordable rental markets each come with trade-offs. Some offer short commutes to larger job hubs, while others provide small-town peace and outdoor recreation at the expense of transit options. Below, we’ve summarized the lifestyle factors that can make or break a rental choice in 2025.

Commute Times and Transit Access

Getting around Florida is often car-dependent, but commute times vary depending on whether you’re in a capital city or a small town outside a metro. Here’s how long it typically takes renters in these affordable markets to reach nearby job centers, along with available transit options.

| Tallahassee | In-city metro | 10–20 mins | StarMetro buses | n/a | | Bartow | Tampa/Orlando | ~50 mins | Limited | Hwy 60/I-4 | | Jacksonville | In-city metro | 15–25 mins | JTA buses/skyway | I-95/I-10 access |

Safety and Walkability Scores

Florida’s cheapest rental markets tend to be more suburban or rural, meaning safety varies by neighborhood and walkability is limited. Most renters will need a car, though Tallahassee and Jacksonville offer some walkable areas.

Fiber Internet, Parks, and Local Amenities

Fast internet, green space, and everyday conveniences can make a big difference for renters. Here’s a breakdown of amenities in Florida’s most affordable cities.

How Can I Find Apartment Deals in Florida?

When you want to rent an apartment in the most affordable cities in Florida, it’s important to act fast in the Sunshine State’s 2025 rental market. Here are proven ways to land an affordable lease:

Take Advantage of Virtual Tours

Many Florida landlords offer 3D walkthroughs and live video tours. You can go through multiple screen listings in a single afternoon without ever leaving home. Make a list of all your favorites and see as many in person as you can in one day to get a leg up on your competition.

Come Prepared to Apply on the Spot

Affordable apartments in Florida’s most desirable cities and neighborhoods go fast, sometimes in a day or two. Keep your paperwork handy, including:

• Proof of income
• (W-2, offer letter, or recent pay stubs)
• Credit report and score
• Pay stubs
• Previous landlord references (if possible)

You can also call ahead to ask individual apartment complexes exactly what kind of paperwork and ID they require. The faster you can apply for an apartment, the greater your chances of beating out even the best-qualified candidates who aren’t prepared.

Negotiate Lease Perks

The listing price on an apartment isn’t necessarily final. Ask about special promotions and perks, including:

• Waived application fees
• Waived pet deposit
• Parking discounts
• Free rent for longer leases

Landlords are more motivated to negotiate when you’re ready to sign, come prepared, and are a good rental candidate with a solid credit score.

Search During the Off-Season

According to our rental data, rental demand usually slows down in the late fall and winter months, specifically between November and February. Florida is somewhat of a different market since the weather stays warm and mostly subtropical.

Snowbirds, retirees who flock to warmer weather during winter, can also drive up demand. Apartment hunting outside of tourist areas will help you find the best deals during winter.

Expand Your Search Radius

Living just outside high-demand metros like Tampa, Orlando, or Miami can cut hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, off your monthly rent. Cities like Bartow, Dade City, and Green Cove Springs prove that affordability is often a short drive away.

Filter Under-Budget Listings with AI Matching

Use our site and set your rent filters 10% lower than your maximum budget. This strategy helps uncover listings with recent price drops, apartment perks and concessions, or negotiation and wiggle room that would probably fly under the radar otherwise.

Find Your Next Florida Apartment

Florida’s rental market is diverse, and the best city depends on what you value most.

• Most affordable - Dade City and Silver Springs: True budget picks with average rents under $1,200, offering small-town charm and quick access to larger metros.
• Best for families - Ocala and Bartow: Known for affordability, schools, and family-friendly parks, with average rents between $1,551 and $1,646.
• Best for young professionals - Tallahassee and Jacksonville: Affordable big-city choices with universities, job opportunities, and cultural amenities. Rents average $1,567 in Tallahassee and $1,668 in Jacksonville, far below the Florida statewide average of $2,540.

Whether you’re focused on saving money, raising a family, or finding a vibrant city with career options, moving to Florida offers something for every renter. Decide what matters most, whether affordability, commute times, lifestyle, or walkability. You’ll find a corner of Florida that feels like home.

Take our quiz today and find your perfect match. In just a few minutes, you’ll save hours of searching.

FAQs About Renting in Florida

What is the average rent in Florida in 2025?

As of mid-2025, the statewide average rent in Florida is $2,540, compared to the national average of $2,102. This makes Florida about 20% more expensive than the U.S. overall, though smaller cities like Dade City and Ocala remain well below that level.

Which city has the cheapest rent in Florida?

One of the cheapest cities in Florida for renters is Dade City, with average rents under $1,000 across all apartment types. It’s an attractive option for budget-conscious renters who don’t mind commuting to Tampa for work or amenities.

Is Jacksonville affordable compared to other Florida metros?

Yes, Jacksonville is one of the most affordable large cities in Florida, with average rents of $1,668. That’s significantly cheaper than the statewide average, while still offering access to jobs, beaches, and cultural amenities.

Are smaller cities like Ocala and Bartow good for renters?

Yes. Cities such as Ocala ($1,551) and Bartow ($1,646) provide affordable housing, suburban charm, and commutes within reach of larger hubs like Orlando and Tampa. They are especially appealing to families and retirees.

When is the best time to rent in Florida?

The best time to rent in Florida is typically December through February, when demand slows. With fewer people moving, renters often find better prices, waived fees, or move-in specials during the winter months.

Do Florida’s cheapest rental cities have good public transit?

Most affordable Florida cities are car-dependent, with limited or no public transit systems. Tallahassee and Jacksonville are exceptions, offering bus networks that make certain neighborhoods more accessible without a car.

How can I negotiate cheaper rent in Florida?

Renters in Florida can often negotiate for discounts on longer leases, waived application fees, or free parking. It helps to show strong credit and flexibility on move-in dates, since landlords may offer concessions to secure reliable tenants.

Are Florida’s cheapest cities safe for renters?

Safety varies by city and even by neighborhood within each city. Smaller towns like Green Cove Springs and Bartow tend to have a quieter, community feel, while big metros like Jacksonville and Tallahassee require more research into specific areas.