This month, FinanceBuzz has released its list of the best Florida cities for retirees living on a budget of $2,000 or less each month.
The study examined 180 cities across the country, looking at which ones had monthly mortgages below $2,000.
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“The Sunshine State is a popular destination for retirees looking to relocate,” the report reads. “From the sandy beaches to iconic attractions, many dream of spending their golden years under the Florida sun. But when considering where to live, seniors planning for retirement should also consider housing costs.”
The full ranking of the nine best cities Florida is as follows:
1. Lakeland
- Median monthly mortgage — $1,750
- Median home sales price — $277,500
"According to the FinanceBuzz study, monthly housing costs in this city are under $1,800. Known as the “City of Lakes,” residents can choose from 38 of them to enjoy an array of outdoor activities from bird watching to kayaking. The city is also just a short drive away from Orlando."
FinanceBuzz, "9 Best Florida Cities To Retire on a Monthly Budget of $2,000 or Less"
2. Palm Bay
- Median monthly mortgage — $1,776
- Median home sales price — $330,000
"Palm Bay is ideal for retirees who dream of spending their golden years by the ocean — the city is just a 15-minute drive from Melbourne Beach. And from museums to art galleries and theaters, there’s plenty to keep you busy."
FinanceBuzz, "9 Best Florida Cities To Retire on a Monthly Budget of $2,000 or Less"
3. Punta Gorda
- Median monthly mortgage — $1,824
- Median home sales price — $360,000
"Located in Charlotte County, Florida, Punta Gorda is home to a large population of retirees. With a laid-back lifestyle and plenty of waterfront views, the city is a great fit for those who want to indulge in fishing and boating while still enjoying shops, restaurants, and other outdoor recreation."
FinanceBuzz, "9 Best Florida Cities To Retire on a Monthly Budget of $2,000 or Less"
4. Jacksonville
- Median monthly mortgage — $1,832
- Median home sales price — $299,492
"According to U.S. News & World Report, Jacksonville is the largest metro area by land mass in the continental U.S., which means there won’t be a shortage of things to keep you busy in retirement. From its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean to camping and hiking in places like Hanna Park and the Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve, the city has options for any type of lifestyle."
FinanceBuzz, "9 Best Florida Cities To Retire on a Monthly Budget of $2,000 or Less"
5. Tampa
- Median monthly mortgage — $1,910
- Median home sales price — $449,950
"Another major city on the list, Tampa offers the big-city life that some retirees crave. In fact, it is the third largest city in the Sunshine State. Situated right on the water with access to attractions such as Busch Gardens, Zoo Tampa, and the Florida Aquarium, there’s something for everyone."
FinanceBuzz, "9 Best Florida Cities To Retire on a Monthly Budget of $2,000 or Less"
6. Destin
- Median monthly mortgage — $1,926
- Median home sales price — $490,000
"Located on Florida’s Emerald Coast, this seaside city is known for its crystal clear, white sand beaches. And as the self-proclaimed “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” retirees living in this Florida city are sure to enjoy a fantastic fishing scene."
FinanceBuzz, "9 Best Florida Cities To Retire on a Monthly Budget of $2,000 or Less"
7. Sanford
- Median monthly mortgage — $1,926
- Median home sales price — $340,000
"Sanford has a small-town feel while still offering retirees access to larger cities; it’s located about halfway between Orlando and Daytona. The city is also known for its historic downtown area, which is home to many boutiques, restaurants, and antique stores for retirees to enjoy."
FinanceBuzz, "9 Best Florida Cities To Retire on a Monthly Budget of $2,000 or Less"
8. Cape Coral
- Median monthly mortgage — $1,944
- Median home sales price — $390,000
"This quiet and relaxed community is ideal for retirees who want to spend their days outside and on the water. From its location on the Caloosahatchee River to its easy access to the Gulf of Mexico, it offers a calmer, more inviting atmosphere than some of the larger neighboring cities like Naples and Fort Myers."
FinanceBuzz, "9 Best Florida Cities To Retire on a Monthly Budget of $2,000 or Less"
9. Port St. Lucie
- Median monthly mortgage — $1,950
- Median home sales price — $410,000
"Port St. Lucie is located on Florida’s east coast and is part of St. Lucie County, which features 21 miles of beaches. Despite its relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, retirees craving more excitement still have easy access to larger cities — Port St. Lucie is about halfway between Orlando and Miami. And for sports lovers, the New York Mets use Clover Park for their spring training."
FinanceBuzz, "9 Best Florida Cities To Retire on a Monthly Budget of $2,000 or Less"
