REPORT: Here are 9 Florida cities where you can live off Social Security alone

With so many people moving to Florida over the past few years, it’s little surprise that housing costs have become a big concern for many.

And with the Sunshine State being a retirement hotspot, many aging couples may be looking for a home that falls within their budgets.

Luckily for them, FinanceBuzz put together a list of areas where the average cost of housing falls within the price range for couples living on Social Security.

“A stress-free retirement is the goal for every older adult, and having adequate income is the key to manifesting one,” the report reads. “Fortunately, social security — which averages to $3,089 per month for a couple in 2025 — can ensure you’re able to pay your bills with a little disposable income left over."

FinanceBuzz’s full list of cities is as follows:

1. ARCADIA

• Average Rent: $736
• Average Home Price: $239,267

“Just an hour east of Sarasota’s famous beaches is Arcadia, a city of 8,000 on the Peace River. Outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and horseback riding are big here, as is rodeo culture. You’ll also find affordable communities for older adults and a cute downtown for strolling.

The cost of living is 10% below the national average in Arcadia, with notably low housing costs."

FinanceBuzz, "9 Florida Cities Where a Couple Can Live on Nothing But Social Security"

1. Gainesville

• Average Rent: $1,236
• Average Home Price: $293,778

“The cost of living in Gainesville is 4% below the national average and 5% below the Florida average. Retirees here get great healthcare thanks to the facilities that belong to the University of Florida facilities, which also give the city its college town flavor.

Abundant and enchanting natural springs in the area provide top-tier outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing away from crowded beaches."

FinanceBuzz, "9 Florida Cities Where a Couple Can Live on Nothing But Social Security"

1. Haines City

• Average Rent: $1,091
• Average Home Price: $306,057

“Housing, transportation, and healthcare costs are notably lower than the national average in Haines City, which is 10% lower overall. Senior living communities are abundant, and more than 30% of the population is comprised of older adults.

Golf aficionados and Disney fans will enjoy living in this small city that’s under an hour’s drive from Orlando."

FinanceBuzz, "9 Florida Cities Where a Couple Can Live on Nothing But Social Security"

1. Jacksonville

• Average Rent: $1,318
• Average Home Price: $288,709

“Jacksonville ranks high in cities to retire overall due to affordability, its burgeoning culinary scene, outdoor activities like golf, and proximity to the Atlantic Coast. Jax also gets high marks for its parks and high number of doctors.

This city of nearly one million souls is 11% cheaper than the national average, with notably lower healthcare and transportation costs."

FinanceBuzz, "9 Florida Cities Where a Couple Can Live on Nothing But Social Security"

1. Lakeland

• Average Rent: $1,309
• Average Home Price: $313,493

“Roughly a fifth of the population of Lakeland is 65 or older, meaning community awaits in this city of over 120,000. As its name suggests, there are ample lakes in this area, as well as parks and outdoor activities. The vibe is small town, but Tampa and Orlando are just a car ride away.

Housing and transportation are notably cheaper than the state and national average, while the overall cost of living is 4% lower overall, according to Area Vibes."

FinanceBuzz, "9 Florida Cities Where a Couple Can Live on Nothing But Social Security"

1. Live Oak

• Average Rent: $798
• Average Home Price: $245,350

“Midway between Jacksonville and Tallahassee is this city of 7,000, perfect for those who seek small town spirit. Abundant rivers and state parks promise outdoor activities, while the nearby Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park hosts major cultural events.

The overall cost of living is well below the national average, and one of the lowest on this list, according to Life in North Florida."

FinanceBuzz, "9 Florida Cities Where a Couple Can Live on Nothing But Social Security"

1. Ocala

• Average Rent: $1,248
• Average Home Price: $270,353

“Ocala is one of the most popular retirement destinations in Florida thanks to its low cost of living, outdoor activities in the Ocala National Forest, plentiful healthcare, and hurricane resilience. Affordable housing isn’t hard to find, including in 55+ communities.

Utilities, healthcare, and food are also cheaper than the national average in Ocala, which is around 8% lower than the national average, according to RentCafe."

FinanceBuzz, "9 Florida Cities Where a Couple Can Live on Nothing But Social Security"

1. Tallahassee

• Average Rent: $1,180
• Average Home Price: $284,216

“Utilities, food, transportation, and housing are all low in Tallahassee, which makes this an appealing spot for couples trying to live on a budget. Two universities offer recreational opportunities and other services, including Florida State University’s senior program, Olli.

Florida’s capital also has two renowned hospitals and urban living without being too overwhelming. As an added bonus, sparkling gulf beaches are only 22 miles away."

FinanceBuzz, "9 Florida Cities Where a Couple Can Live on Nothing But Social Security"

1. Titusville

• Average Rent: $1,158
• Average Home Price: $272,130

“You may have heard of Cocoa Beach, and Titusville is just to its north, about an hour east of Orlando. That means Atlantic beaches are in your backyard, rocket launches provide regular thrills, and outdoor activities — including bioluminescent kayaking — are plentiful.”

FinanceBuzz, "9 Florida Cities Where a Couple Can Live on Nothing But Social Security"