Do you have dreams of spending your days in the Florida sunshine? But are you concerned that the home prices are too expensive?
Don’t fret: There are cities in Florida where you still can buy a home for less than $200,000 — you just have to know where to look.
From South Florida to the panhandle, there are budget-friendly condos and single-family houses, even for retirees.
You can find the Florida lifestyle of your dreams, whether in a city or an area focused on outdoor recreation, and you don’t have to break the bank to buy.
Here are the 15 cities in Florida where smart homeowner money moves can mean buying a home for under $200,000.
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Lake City
If you want a quiet suburban feel, look in Lake City. The median home price is $258,174, but modest homes can be found for under $200,000.
You’ll get the four seasons of North Florida and proximity to major cities like Gainesville and Jacksonville but with a more relaxed way of life.
Lauderdale Lakes
Eighty percent of homes in Lauderdale Lakes are under $200,000, one of the most affordable areas in South Florida.
You’ll find proximity to the beach and big cities like Miami and Fort Lauderdale, and you’ll still get the urban feel and community of the surrounding areas. You can also find great deals on condos under $200,000 here, often with community pools.
Lauderhill
Right outside Fort Lauderdale, you’ll find Lauderhill, an urban area where 70% of homes are under $200,000. Most residents are homeowners, which gives the area a more community-driven feel, and you can buy an affordable condo with amenities.
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Deltona
If your idea of a high quality of life includes spending time outdoors, look to Deltona, where you’ll enjoy areas like Green Springs Park and Deltona Lake.
This city north of Orlando has single-family homes and condos under $200,000. Plus, the grandkids will always be up for a visit if it includes a trip to Disney!
Pensacola
You’ll find mild winters and gorgeous Florida beaches in Pensacola, but the biggest appeal is its low cost of living and affordable housing.
The median house price is $263,605, but you’ll find updated single-family homes for under $200,000.
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Gainesville
Gainesville is a lovely place to live if you want a college-town feel with outdoor activities and culture.
There’s the Gainesville Historic District, Butterfly Rainforest, and Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park to explore, but the real highlight is a median house price of $287,950. If you’re in the market for a condo, you can find options under $200,000.
Pine Hills
Pine Hills is close to Orlando but much more affordable, with a median home price of $286,250.
The area has a suburban feel and areas like Barnett Park, which has trails, sports courts, and more. You’ll find condos here for under $200,000.
Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach may be known for spring break and its motor speedway, but it’s also a great place to live, thanks to relaxing beaches, a bustling boardwalk, and shopping and restaurants.
The median home price is $294,990, and you can find condos for well under $200,000, including those with beachfront views.
Panama City
You’ll find diversity and community in Panama City, where the median home price is $281,275. It’s also known for its affordable healthcare, which is a key deciding factor if you’re looking at retirement spots.
You can even find condos in waterfront communities here for under $200,000 — imagine your morning walks along the beach.
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Poinciana
The Nature Conservancy’s Disney Wilderness Preserve is a favorite amenity for active walkers in Poinciana. This city in central Florida is also known for its affordability. You’ll find updated condos here for under $200,000.
Lakeland
Lakeland is a city near Tampa. It has everything from the Florida Children’s Museum to Lake Parker to Hollis Garden.
Yet it’s also an affordable place to live. You can find homes here for under $200,000, including small yet updated single-family houses.
Jacksonville
Jacksonville is a fast-growing city that is still relatively affordable, with a median home price of $297,741. You’ll find great beaches, outdoor activities, and less expensive healthcare here. But you’ll also find renovated condos under $200,000.
Kissimmee
Kissimmee has a higher median home price at $381,359, but many properties remain to be found on a budget.
You’ll be just a stone’s throw from amusement parks and recreation but with a slightly quieter way of life. You can even find a darling small single-family house for under $200,000 here.
Edgewater
Edgewater is desirable thanks to its location, which is close to the beach and has a small-town feel. Its affordability is another factor that draws in transplants, including retirees. A single-family home costs under $200,000 here.
Melbourne
Melbourne is known for its stunning coastline, which is perfect for those who love beach days and outdoor recreation. You’ll find golf, fishing, and snorkeling here — all perfect activities if you’re eyeing Florida for retirement. You’ll also find condos for under $200,000 in Melbourne.
Bottom line
The lack of an income tax in Florida is one of the main draws for many transplants, but make sure to prepare yourself financially and balance those savings with the areas where you may have higher expenses.
Homeowners insurance and utility bills are two areas where you will spend more than in other states.
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