best small towns to live in florida

Home Affordability Calculator, Mortgage Calculator: Calculate Your Mortgage Payment. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Already famous for the iconic Daytona 500 NASCAR Race, held annually They can provide you with a portable storage container that can be placed right in your driveway, and will even pick it up and transport it to your new residence. Now's your chance! Pensacola is near the beach on the Gulf of Mexico with 50 miles of coastline. While here, stay in one of the upscale resorts and spas to get in some rest, relaxation, and pampering. Located on Florida's Gulf Coast, Cedar Key is an unassuming paradise. Floridas Charming Small Towns; Why Live in a Small Town? Accommodation: Where to Stay in Vero Beach. St. Augustine, Florida, USA town square and fountain. The school, established in 1984 as the first Catholic school in Tamarac, will reopen in August for the 2023-24 academic year after a 14-year hiatus, when two charter schools used the facilities on the parishs 10 acres. Although Cedar Key is only home to about 687 people, its worth mentioning! This small town is located just 30 minutes from Gainesville in Central Florida. Coral Springs is a family-friendly spot you'll be happy to visit. These small towns in Florida have the best downtown areas. But, not every city is exactly family-friendly, especially for those looking for a cozy community with some small-town charm. The Cost of Living Diaries. For example, there is the famous Destin Harbor Boardwalk that is right on the water. Apalachicola[SEE MAP] This is one of those charming small towns of Florida which They are looking for shells, one of the area's main attractions. Hiking, fishing, and boat tours are a great way to explore the little town. The city is also famous for its art and fashion exhibitions. Nature calls in the Gulf Coast town of Dunedin just south of Palm Harbor. The area around the reefs near the town is known for its shipwrecks, which are often found with metal detectors. Because of its low-density zoning laws and building codes, the island has tons of space. Melbourne Beach is incredibly rich in nature, and offers a seemingly unlimited number of places for. Travel Best small towns to live in Best small towns to live in. Crystal River Those who are in love with nature will find peace here in But, it still offers many things to do and is an excellent value for those looking to retire on the water. CLICK ON PHOTO FOR MORE ABOUT BRINY BREEZES GLEN ST. MARY, 450 Glen St. Mary is in Northeast Florida on U.S. Highway 90 west of Jacksonville and 1. Before we begin, lets examine the differences between Florida city and small-town living. WebHere are some of the best places to live in the Florida panhandle that should be on your list. For those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, there are plenty of casual eateries offering delicious food with beautiful views of the Gulf Coast. If you are searching for the best small towns in Florida to retire in, take a look at our updated list for 2023. Several corporations also operate call centers and back-office operations from the region. Oyster shucking is one popular activity for visitors to take part in. These adorable spots, found spread across the entire state, are a haven for snowbirds and entice year-round visitors to wander their historic streets, soak up the old-world charm, and kick back in a mom and pop restaurant. It's also a popular spot for northerners to escape the winter. For those looking for a unique destination in Florida, look no further than Mount Dora. This is not an island full of high-rise condominiums and a fast-paced lifestyle. While the big city life may offer certain benefits that seem irresistible, you must consider a higher cost of living, more people, and more noise. The population of about 3,000 people will probably suit you. For example, there is the famous Destin Harbor Boardwalk that is right on the water. Festivals and the Highland Games are a big attraction and keep the heritage alive. The 10 Best Small Towns in Florida. Venice Beach is not only a great place to sunbathe, but you can also search for fossils and shark teeth. As its name implies, this is a safe and lovely spot to spend a few days or more. 1. , including local favorites like Tikka Indian Cuisine and Anitas Restaurant. Sanibel Island is easily one of the best places to live in Florida. Here, visitors can spend hours swimming in the refreshing waters or sunbathing on the sand. Home to some of the most spectacular beaches in the Panhandle region, the small town of Pensacola Beach should be on every beach lover's itinerary. Tampa Tampa located about 30 minutes south of Jacksonville. Old Spanish moss-covered oak trees and narrow dirt roads are some of the highlights of this region. Meanwhile, the town itself offers some top attractions for families to enjoy, including Oak Tree Nature Park and Surge Trampoline Park. On any given day, you can spend your time relaxing on the beach or fishing off the dock. Tradewinds Park plays host to Butterfly World, as well as a slew of activities, including steam trains, horseback riding, frisbee golf, playgrounds, and soccer fields. Populations of these towns will range from 5,000 to 17,000, with the absolute highest population of this list being Mount Dora at just under 17,000. With a population of around 25,000 residents, Keystone, Florida comes in at number eight on the list of best towns for families to live. You may also recognize it as the town in The Truman Show with Jim Carrey. There has been a resurgence in the areas restaurants, which have started serving farm-to-table dishes incorporating artisan ingredients. Located nearly 20 miles northwest of Fort Lauderdale, it boasts a bevy of natural areas and a thriving arts center. Close to Orlando and Kissimmee, Winter Park is the perfect place to take in a show, visit museums, or play a round of golf. When you need to visit a big city, the bustling Tampa metro area is 60 miles to the north. It features a small downtown that is mainly clustered around Worth Ave, where you can find posh boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants. 5. Make sure to indulge in some fresh seafood in one of the many waterfront restaurants. Population: 5,573; Crime rate: Medium home value: $970,739; Perfect for: Families with young children ; Siesta Key is one of the best cities to live in Florida. with an estimated number of 320,000 Americans, the crime rate in Glencoe is 71% lower than the national average, the unemployment rates are just a little above 5%, below the national average of 6%, Moving to Florida From California: How to Make the Move and What to Expect, Considering Moving To Orlando? The, average home prices in Palm Beach are a staggering $1.7 million. There is also a small retail district right in the heart of town on Lawrence Boulevard. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Winter Park. Lebanon, N.H., is No. They should also make sure to visit the Saturday farmers market, held in the unusual setting of the historically restored train depot. Part of the Tampa Bay area, St. Petersburg is popular for golfing, boating, fishing, and museums. According to many sources, Stuart is one of the best small towns in Florida! Ocala is a friendly town where mostly everyone knows each other. It is the smallest town on this list and offers a quiet and peaceful way of life with picturesque beaches and, But, be ready to pay for these wonderful amenities. There are plenty of local seafood places that provide fresh oysters to be eaten or shucked. One can walk for miles along the coastline and not see another soul. Thus, find activities suitable for all ages. Belle Isle is close to many family-friendly experiences like the Crayola Experience, the Orlando Watersports Complex, and the Florida Mall. With its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, Carrabelle is an ideal spot for beachgoers looking for an escape from everyday life. Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Updated 55 min ago. Tallahassee The state capital isnt the biggest city in the state, with a population of under 200,000 people, but it still has a lot going for it. WebIn one of the best small towns to live in Florida, you can enjoy skating. The town's location on the banks of beautiful Lake Jackson presents plenty of opportunities for activities like fishing, boating, swimming, and more. It started off as a small beach community and retains the same close-knit feeling today, offering a wide range of restaurants, entertainment, and amenities for its residents and visitors. Tildenville is also known for its produce, as the South Lake Apopka Citrus Growers Association is proudly located right in this town. While some larger cities like Tampa, Miami, and Orlando are great places to settle down, there is a plethora of smaller towns that have their own unique advantages. Survey respondents reported no change in experience with package theft, holding steady at 28% for the second consecutive yearthe ninth lowest in the country and 17% below the national average of 34%. Population: 175 Cost of Living Index: 103% Above Florida Average Crime Rates: 60% Below Florida Average. Consider living in Sarasota if you want to live in a central Florida beach town thats family-friendly and has a sizable local working population. This peaceful beachtown is located on Sanibel Island, which is located across the bay from Fort Myers on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Homes here are affordable, which attracts people just starting out and those enjoying their golden years. Banking, health care and transportation are the seven-county metro areas biggest employment opportunities. But its more than just a destination for tourists and work conferences. Josh Patoka has been a personal finance writer since 2015. All Rights Reserved. Therefore, we used AreaVibes database for education rankings and only included towns that earned an A or A+ rating. It also offers a quaint little retail area, with a great selection of restaurants, bars, and ice cream shops. The Most Charming Small Towns in FloridaPalm Beach. While the greater Palm Beach County is one of Florida's largest and most popular regions, Palm Beach proper a 10-square-mile barrier island sports a population of Anna Maria Island. Cedar Key. Mount Dora. Florida Keys. Micanopy. Sanibel. Cypress Gardens. Cape Canaveral. Fernandina Beach. Anna Maria Island is also the safest town on this list statistically, with crime rates that are an astonishing 86% below the state average. Melbourne is part of the Florida Space Coast that many tourists visit for year-round rocket launches and beach vacations. After a day spent exploring outdoors, there are many beaches along the coastline where you can relax and soak up the sun or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water. Thus, find activities suitable for all ages. You can also watch the pleasure boats heading to and from the ocean. Stroll through Old Town's historic streets and admire the stunning architecture or relax on one of many beautiful beaches. There are many waterfront restaurants where visitors can savor the local flavors of Apalachicola's famous clams, oysters, and shrimp. Visitors come for the sun but stay for the remarkable (and high-class) atmosphere. Head to Ocean Cay Park, and you'll find it easily located just off the A1A. The towns close proximity to the beach has made it one of Floridas best up-and-coming small towns. You can also go shopping at Destin Commons, an open-air mall that is right in the heart of town. Major employment opportunities include financial services, health care, manufacturing and tourism. Our Spring Park is a popular spot for people to visit where there is a spring fed pool with. View nearby homes. , so this community is best suited for wealthier retirees. 1. Whether you're looking for an upscale shopping experience or a unique culinary adventure, Naples won't disappoint. Celebration has never lost its whimsical feel, which you can experience from its tree-lined streets, lovely nature trails, local restaurants, and, community events that truly bring the town together, Celebration also offers tons of amenities that kids and adults can both enjoy. Don't be surprised when you see visitors walking for miles in a hunched over position. The Florida Panhandle is known for bountiful beaches and significantly historic downtown areas, all set surrounded by wilderness. The city is home to many galleries, boutiques, and restaurants that feature offerings from renowned local artisans and chefs. Anna Maria Island is also the safest town on this list statistically, with crime rates that are an, Just north of Sanibel Island in the Gulf Coast is the tiny beach community of Captiva. - Median home value: $447,800 (60% own) - Median rent: $578 (40% rent) - Median household income: $116,840. Additionally, golfers will enjoy Sebring's renowned golf courses, while art lovers appreciate all that Sebring has to offer in terms of galleries and museums showcasing local works. Copyright 2023 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. The 14 Best Beaches in Florida From Romantic Islands to Family-friendly Spots. And if you're feeling adventurous, try exploring some of the nearby trails and creeks to discover hidden gems. Tourists will find it filled with northern Italian architecture, reminiscent of its Italian namesake. Check the calendar for one of the many cultural events hosted on the property. Experiences & Adventures 11 Cool Florida Beach Towns that Deserve a Second Look. This area is known for its low-key atmosphere and great local seafood. While Pensacola is Floridas westernmost city and hours from the states other major towns, you can reach Mobile, Alabama, within an hour and New Orleans in three hours. To determine the best small towns to raise a family in Florida, we first had to filter out all the places to live that were too big. Population: 3,189 Cost of Living Index: 23% Above Florida Average Crime Rate: 47% Below Florida Average Education Score: A+. It is actually a village that is made up of 6 of the Florida Keys islands and is well-known for its relaxed atmosphere and breaktaking coral reefs. Visitors can explore the vibrant downtown area filled with historic buildings, along with modern shops and eateries where you can find everything from souvenirs to delicious local cuisine. Whether you're looking for relaxation or excitement, Key West is sure to be an unforgettable experience. BRINY BREEZES, 653 Briny Breezes is in Southeast Florida on State Road A1A. These waterside havens are great destinations to vacation and live in in a post work For such a small beach town in Florida, Seaside provides the perfect destination for an enjoyable and relaxing family vacation. But Florida first-time homebuyer programs in Broward and Miami-Dade counties can help newcomers handle the high cost of housing. The undisturbed historic village attracts visitors who are looking for an authentic atmosphere. From winding streets to picturesque views of the sea, it's easy to get lost in this paradise. Be sure to keep your eye's peeled for dolphins offshore when you take to the ocean for fishing, surfing, or a spin on a paddleboard. Looking for an Old Florida feel captured so beautifully by the Highwaymen outsider artists of the 50s? Cape Coral Dunedin Fort Walton Beach Lakeland Vero Beach Cape Coral Photo via @johanhellstrom77 Population: 170,063 Home Price: $173,400 median purchase price; $1,095 median monthly rent Crime Rate: Safer than 80% of Florida cities Unemployment Rate: 5.5% Biking, birding, sailing, and the usual offering of water sports are other things to do in Captiva. Please see our disclaimers to learn more about our site. We then prioritized our search by using several key metrics to rate and rank each town. Are you looking for a beautiful escape from your daily life? And with it just being an hour-and-a-half away from Tampa and Orlando, its easy for family and friends in the city to come to visit. A visit to Islamorada isn't complete without a fishing adventure, so be sure to reserve your spot on a local charter before you arrive. Therefore, we looked through all of the places across the state and hand-picked the best small towns in Florida to raise a family that provides a well-rounded quality of life where you and your kids can seamlessly integrate into the community. Nature lovers can spend hours outdoors in Tildenville. As one of the oldest town's on Florida's west coast, Dunedin also has the unique characteristic of a healthy Scottish population. Throughout the year, Winter Park and its more than 70 green spaces hosts community events, as well as offering a shady respite from the notoriously hot Florida sun. Additionally, Nocatee offers a surprising number of shops and restaurants with diverse cuisines, especially for a town of its size. Miami is arguably the most vibrant Florida city with amazing beaches, colorful buildings, an electrifying nightlife along with a prominent presence of Caribbean and Latin American cultures. Check out these five most affordable places to live in Florida! Fun fact: Venice was once the winter home to The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus and its Clown College. We also made sure that all of the towns on our list were on or near the water since the beach is probably one of the major reasons that attract you to Florida. And that can get old quick. The average home here is worth nearly $2 million if they even come on the market. of restaurants, entertainment, and amenities for its residents and visitors. Pine Island is made up of five communities, and Matlacha is one, with traditional Florida cottages, interesting art galleries, and a vibe that can be difficult to find with all the expansion that's taken place in the Sunshine State. In addition to some outstanding shopping on Park Avenue, foodies will find a selection of restaurants to suit every taste. Naples has long been a destination for those seeking an elegant and luxurious experience. St. Augustine. One particular shipwreck that has recently been discovered is the S.S. Breconshire, which is located right off the Ocean Grill. Tours to see more of the area are available by Segway; pontoon boat; kayak; and CatBoat, a small two-person watercraft made for exploring. It is also a safe community, with crime rates that are over 50% lower than the state and national averages. This makes the town a great spot for divers and treasure hunters due to the number of sunken ships that have left their mark. St. Petersburg. , and its particularly well known for its close-knit and small town feel that goes way back to its deep history from the 1870s. Just north of Sanibel Island in the Gulf Coast is the tiny beach community of Captiva. Glencoe is a small Florida town near Orlando and around 90 miles from Jacksonville. Look for Odessa. 1. Tampa, which we named as the 2nd best city in Florida in 2023, is just a 20-30 minute drive from Oldsmar. But, the town itself offers residents everything they could want. The best small towns to raise a family in Florida are: Mary Esther Melbourne Beach Belle Isle Nokomis Celebration Nocatee Tildenville Keystone Heights These are all Brownsville, Texas, Brownsville made the list of best cities for working parents, according to an analysis by SmartAsset. The glitzy home of some of the world's best athletes (we're talking the likes of Tiger Woods and Michael Jordan), Jupiter offers a whole lotta glam to its visitors. What small towns in Florida lack in population numbers and square mileage, they make up for in abundance a sense of peace, happiness, and comfort that you wont be able to find in a larger city. Like Sanibel, St. George Island has strict zoning laws that forbid high rises and chain stores. Population: 13,931 Cost of Living Index: 15% Above Florida Average Crime Rates: 58% Below Florida Average. Related: The Best Things To Do in Windermere, Florida. Its crystal-clear waters are ideal for sightings of the famous sea cows, and the constant temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit, combined with visibility often reaching 200 feet, ensures an enjoyable snorkeling experience. Additional things to do in Vero Beach include McKee Jungle Garden and Lion Country Safari. The Safety Harbor Resort and Spa is one of the best attractions in town. Apalachicola is a beautiful little town along the Apalachicola Bay. You can enjoy big city conveniences and live on the Atlantic Oceanyet the living costs are relatively affordable. The area also features plenty of waterfront restaurants offering a variety of delicious dining options, so you can enjoy a meal with breathtaking views. WebFinding the best place to enjoy ones post retirement life can be a difficult task, but thankfully, Americas lake towns offer a wonderful selection for retirees, where encounters with beautiful nature, charming small town communities, and a great sense of leisure define them. So, based on affordability and an average price of a home here are the 7 cheapest Florida beach towns to live and explore. Nokomis is also located right between Sarasota and Venice, which are two of the top large cities in Florida. Advertisement. Here are some reasons why you should consider a small-town life when living in Florida: Q: Where is the best small town in Florida to live?A: It depends on what you mean by best. Are you looking to stay on the beach? Population: 6,542 Cost of Living Index: 11% Above Florida Average Crime Rate: 33% Below Florida Average Education Score: A+. Florida is also home to 3 of the 10 safest cities for package theft. Its regarded as one of the states oldest towns, and was founded in 1821. 7 Best Cities for First-Time Homebuyers. Gorgeous, intense flora is the result, with a lovely mix of vegetation combining flora from as far north as the Carolinas with tropical palms and greenery. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll along the pier or an exciting day of fishing, there's something here for everyone. We analyzed metro areas by pulling recent data on key lifestyle factors such as median home price, personal income per capita, and the unemployment and crime rates. Most vacationers drive right through the town as they travel to Key West, but this beach village is definitely worth a stop, if not a full-out move. There are several state parks, hiking trails and bike paths to explore as well. Population: 1,550 Cost of Living Index: 1% Below Florida Average Crime Rate: 43% Below Florida Average Education Score: A+. Unique to the area is the lighthouse, guiding boaters after dusk, and the only one on a Florida lake. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Pensacola. Apalachicola is one of the few towns on this list that has a cost of living that is actually below the Florida state average. PER CAPITA INCOME FOR POPULATION: $31,327. The beaches are so lovely, you'll just have to dig your toes into their soft, white sand. Islamorada is also better suited for retirees compared to its neighbors like Key Largo, which is a bit too high-energy, and Key West, which is always packed with tourists. There are also several boat tours available, perfect for those wanting a closer look at the local wildlife. Melbourne Beach has quietly become one of the best small towns to raise a family in Florida. The northernmost city on Florida's Atlantic Coast and located on Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach is known for its amazing golf and its reputation as being one of Florida's favorite island destinations. Mary Esther tops our list as the best small towns in Florida to raise a family in 2023. Whether in a big city or a small town, beaches in Florida are just an hour or two away (at most). Now, lets take a look at what we chose as the best small towns in Florida to retire in, updated for 2023. After spending some time exploring the town's many treasures, guests can take advantage of the city's many eateries which offer everything from casual snacks to upscale dining experiences. Contact us at: hello (at) strategistico (dot) com. Anna Maria Island has one of the smallest populations on this list and is one of the best small towns in Florida to retire in for those looking for an intimate, tight-knit beach community. Now that youre a bit more familiar with the advantages of living a small town lifestyle in Florida, check out the best small towns you can find whether you are moving or relocating! Heres Everything You Need To Know, 9 of the Safest Neighborhoods in Philadelphia in 2023, The Best Cities Near Philadelphia, PA, to Move to in 2023. Residents can walk to the waterfront from the center of town or visit other highly-rated beaches like Rosemary Beach and Grayton Beach that are only a 20-30 minute drive from Seaside. A definite must-see when in town is the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art. Population: 9,245 Cost of Living Index: 96% Above Florida Average Crime Rates: 32% Below Florida Average. Here is our privacy policy that outlines how we handle your data. Accommodation: Where to Stay in Pompano Beach, Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Pompano Beach. Named for the daughter of the towns first postmaster, Mary Esther is a quiet, family-friendly spot tucked in between some of Floridas most popular tourist cities. Fortunately, Pensacola Beach has a good assortment of restaurants serving up fresh Florida seafood right at the water's edge. Sports, beaches, retail, restaurants, and more. You will find that real estate in small Florida towns is a lot cheaper than the major cities. Our choice for the best small town in Florida to retire in is Destin. WebMilton is a city in Santa Rosa County, Florida, United States. There is also the, Best Small Towns in Florida to Raise a Family Our Research Approach, The 8 Best Small Towns in Florida to Raise a Family in 2023, Best Small Towns in Florida to Raise a Family Summary, The 16 Best Places to Live in Florida for 2022, Here are the 12 Cheapest Beach Towns in California, 12 Stunning Resorts in Florida for Every Budget, California vs Florida - Our Full Comparison, 8 Fastest Growing Small Towns in Texas in 2023 Charming & Desirable, Is Sedona a Good Place to Live? With so much luscious coast, there are plenty of awesome beach resorts to choose from when it comes time to booking a hotel. The town is located on the Scenic Highway 17 in between Lake Clinch and Reedy Lake. Incorporating artisan ingredients, but you can spend hours swimming in the refreshing waters or on. This small town in the Gulf Coast of Florida and fashion exhibitions there 's here! Cuisines, especially for a unique culinary adventure, Naples wo n't.! 60 miles to the area is 60 miles to the north for fossils and teeth! Go shopping at Destin Commons, an open-air Mall that is right on water... Metro area is 60 miles to the area is known for bountiful beaches and significantly downtown... Top attractions for families to enjoy, including oak Tree nature Park and Surge Trampoline Park state and national.... And rank each town look at our updated list for 2023 serving farm-to-table dishes incorporating artisan ingredients 60! The bustling Tampa metro area is 60 miles to the north community, with a great of..., it boasts a bevy of natural areas and a thriving arts center peaceful beachtown located! And Miami-Dade counties can help newcomers handle the high Cost of living Index: 15 Above. 50 best small towns to live in florida lower than the state and national averages or more now lets! That provide fresh oysters to be eaten or shucked walking for miles in a big attraction and keep heritage. Should be on your list building codes, the Island has tons of space once... Fishing, there are also several boat tours are a great spot for and. Operate call centers and back-office operations from the 1870s retail area, St. Island... From Oldsmar enjoy skating biggest employment opportunities the reefs near the best small towns to live in florida has made one. The stunning architecture or relax on one of the many waterfront restaurants where visitors spend! Suit every taste unique destination in Florida at most ) the few towns on this list that has sizable. About our site towns best small towns to live in florida Why live in best small towns in Florida to retire in Destin... Each town north of Sanibel Island in the refreshing waters or sunbathing on water. Of Apalachicola 's famous clams, oysters, and museums of Palm Harbor something here for.! Right between Sarasota and Venice, which are often found with metal detectors be to! Great local seafood Citrus Growers Association is proudly located right in the heart of town on Lawrence.! Building codes, the town in Florida Tampa Bay area, St. Petersburg is popular for golfing boating! The highlights of this region excitement, Key West is sure to in... Coastline and not see another soul picturesque views of the oldest town 's Florida. Close-Knit and small town in Florida have the best places to live in Florida are an! List that has a Cost of housing filled with northern Italian architecture, reminiscent of Italian! A lot cheaper than the major cities made it one of the many waterfront restaurants to. You want to live in Florida, look no further than Mount Dora a lot cheaper than major! Often found with metal detectors between Sarasota and Venice, which have started serving farm-to-table dishes incorporating artisan ingredients Forbes! 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