Cheapest Cities to Rent in Florida (2026)
The cheapest rent in Florida is in Tallahassee, FL, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,352/mo and a 1-bedroom $1,204/mo (2026 HUD Fair Market Rent) — $550/mo below the Florida average 2BR of $1,902. The table below ranks all 7 of the cheapest cities to rent in Florida.
Top 7 Cheapest Cities in Florida
Ranked by 2-bedroom rent price (lowest first)
| Rank | City | Studio | 1 Bed | 2 Bed | 3 Bed | Income Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Tallahassee, FL | $1,097 | $1,204 | $1,352 | $1,674 | $54,080/yr |
#2 | Jacksonville, FL | $1,355 | $1,382 | $1,658 | $2,043 | $66,320/yr |
#3 | North Port, FL | $1,418 | $1,686 | $1,958 | $2,537 | $78,320/yr |
#4 | Sarasota, FL | $1,418 | $1,686 | $1,958 | $2,537 | $78,320/yr |
#5 | Orlando, FL | $1,650 | $1,731 | $1,972 | $2,476 | $78,880/yr |
#6 | Tampa, FL | $1,593 | $1,696 | $1,977 | $2,527 | $79,080/yr |
#7 | Miami, FL | $1,828 | $1,995 | $2,436 | $3,127 | $97,440/yr |
Why These Florida Cities Are Affordable
While Florida's popularity has increased rents, significant variation exists between metros. Jacksonville and inland cities remain affordable, while South Florida commands premium prices.
- Below-average housing costs: These cities have housing indices lower than the state average of 105
- Lower demand: Smaller populations and less competitive markets keep prices reasonable
- Diverse housing stock: Mix of older and newer buildings provides options at various price points
- Regional economies: Local job markets support working populations without coastal-city premiums
Income Requirements
Using the standard 30% of income guideline, here's what you need to earn to afford rent in Florida's cheapest cities:
How Florida's Cheapest Cities Compare
What to Consider Before Moving
Best For
- ✓Retirees
- ✓Remote workers
- ✓Tourism industry professionals
- ✓Beach lifestyle seekers
Considerations
- •Hurricane risk
- •Hot humid summers
- •Car-dependent in most areas
Cheapest Rent in Florida: FAQ
Where is the cheapest rent in Florida?
The cheapest rent in Florida is in Tallahassee, FL, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,352/month and a 1-bedroom $1,204/month in 2026 (HUD Fair Market Rent). Next cheapest: Jacksonville ($1,658), North Port ($1,958), Sarasota ($1,958).
How much can I save renting in Florida's cheapest cities?
By choosing Florida's cheapest city over the state average 2BR of $1,902, you could save $550/month or $6,600/year on rent.
Is rent in Florida's cheapest city below the US average?
Yes. A 2-bedroom in Tallahassee costs $1,352/month, which is $221/month below the US median 2BR Fair Market Rent of $1,573 (HUD, 2026).
What income do I need to rent in Florida's cheapest cities?
To afford the cheapest 2BR in Florida at $1,352/month, you need approximately $54,080/year based on the 30% of income guideline.