Florida often tops the list of the best places to retire. The sun and sand make it an easy place to live out your days, but it’s more than just the weather that draws retirees. The Sunshine State is one of the most tax-friendly states, too, which allows you to keep more of your money in your wallet.
But one of the best money moves is also finding a place to retire within your housing budget. FinanceBuzz looked at 180 cities across the U.S. and evaluated them based on affordability. Here are the best Florida cities to spend your golden years on a monthly housing budget of $1,800 or less.
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1. Sebring
Median monthly mortgage: $1,288 This town from the FinanceBuzz study is located in the heart of central Florida. Sebring offers a lower cost of living than other places in the Sunshine State, and the median home price is just above $200,000. It’s known for a tight-knit community and natural beauty, and sports enthusiasts may know the city for its annual 12-hour car race.
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2. Ocala
Median monthly mortgage: $1,329
Ocala is a popular retirement spot, especially with golf lovers. This quiet community is packed with world-class golf resorts, hiking and biking trails, and plenty of access to water. There are plenty of 55+ communities, and the average home price is around $235,000. This makes Ocala an ideal option for retirees on a budget.
3. Homosassa Springs
Median monthly mortgage: $1,359…