How Much Does It Cost to Live in Orlando, Florida?

Thinking about moving to Orlando, Florida? There’s more to love about this sunny city than just its warm weather and close proximity to Cinderella’s Castle. Orlando also happens to be an affordable place to live compared to many other major metropolitan areas in the U.S. Located in central Florida, the City of Orlando is home to more than 250,000 residents and growing. According to USA Today, the metro area experienced one of the largest net increases in population in the country between 2010 and 2023, ranking seventh among 50 U.S. cities for highest population increase due to migration. Of course with its affordable amenities, it’s no surprise that Orlando draws thousands of newcomers to its city every year. For a closer look at the cost of living in Orlando, keep reading.

Cost of living in Orlando

According to AreaVibes, Orlando has an overall cost of living index score of 98, two percent lower than the national average and 1 percent lower than the Florida average. This cost of living index gives a general feel for the affordability of a city. If a city’s index score is higher than 100, then the cost of living is above average. If a city’s index score is lower than 100, then the cost of living is below average.

Jobs

According to WalletHub, the City of Orlando is the third best place to find a job in the U.S. This is in large part due to its plethora of job opportunities and employers in and around the Orlando metro area. WFTV9 reports that Walt Disney World is the leading provider of jobs in the city with more than 53,000 employees. The company is responsible for employing many Orlando residents in various industries including hospitality, tourism, construction and manufacturing. Other major employers in Orlando include Orange County Public School, the State of Florida Government, Adventist Health System, Florida Hospital, Publix Supermarkets and Universal Studios. The Orlando Economic Partnership notes that the city is also the “world capital of Modeling, Simulation and Training (MS&T) and the top producing region for engineers in the Aviation, Aerospace and Defense industry.”

Salary

The city’s median household income is $45,436, with a typical Orlando resident making $28,117, according to U.S. Census data. While this is below the national average, many would argue that given Florida’s low cost of living and lack of state income tax, residents don’t necessarily need to earn a higher paycheck to live well in Orlando.

Real estate

Looking to buy a home? Real estate in Orlando is plenty affordable. In fact, according to Realtor.com, the median listing price for a home in Orlando is $245,000, with an average cost of $147 a square foot. According to AreaVibes, the median home price in Orlando is 7 percent lower than the national average. However, newcomers should be aware that home prices have steadily (but slightly) increased over the years. Currently, the housing market in Orlando is a seller’s market, meaning there are more buyers than homes for sale. According to U.S. Census data, the median gross rent between 2013 and 2023 was $1,091 a month. While rent isn’t exorbitantly high in Orlando, it is 10 percent higher than the national average. Expect to pay around $1,100 a month for a modern one-bedroom apartment in a new, luxury apartment building.

Taxes

Good news for Orlando residents: they won’t have to pay state income taxes come tax season. As is the case for any full-time Florida resident, this lack of income tax allows residents to save more of their hard-earned money for vacations, education, retirement and fun activities. For reference, most other U.S. states have an income tax rate of anywhere from one to 13 percent. It should be noted, however, that Florida residents must pay sales taxes and property taxes, among others.

Transportation

Plan on driving? Gasbuddy.com reports that the average price of regular unleaded gas in Orlando is $2.57 per gallon. This is right on par with the national average of $2.60 per gallon (at the time this article was written). While the cost of gas in Orlando isn’t incredibly expensive, it’s not particularly cheap either. The average commute time in the city is 25.6 minutes, according to the Orlando Sentinel. As an alternative to driving, many residents opt to take the bus or shuttle via LYNX, the public transit provider in Orlando. This public transit system covers more than 2,500 square miles, providing bus service to 61 routes as well as shuttle services to special events. Riders can purchase a fixed route all-day pass for just $2.25. In downtown Orlando, residents can also take advantage of LYMMO, a free bus rapid transit service.

Other reasons to move to Orlando, Florida

Besides low taxes, affordable neighborhoods and an abundance of jobs, here are several other reasons to consider moving to Orlando.

  • The weather is top-notch – Say goodbye to the wintertime blues and hello to year-round sunshine. Residents of Orlando, Florida have no problem meeting their recommended daily intake of Vitamin D, thanks to the city’s perpetually sunny weather. AreaVibes also notes that the city’s air quality is 27 percent better than the national average, and the city’s pollution is 85 percent better than the national average.
  • There’s no shortage of things to do – Dubbed “The Theme Park Capital of the World,” Orlando attracts more than 50 million visitors a year. If that’s not proof of just how much there is to see and do in Orlando, then we don’t know what is. Residents are able to enjoy Florida resident discounts at many of the city’s amusement parks and attractions. Several of the most popular include Walt Disney World, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, Gatorland and Wet ‘n Wild Water Park.
  • The city is packed with arts and entertainment activities – While many only associate Orlando with the city’s amusement parks, residents know there is so much more to love about this Florida city – including its arts and entertainment scene. Theater and museum lovers will find plenty of arts and entertainment in and around the city. Popular attractions include the Orlando Shakespeare Theater, The Orlando Centroplex and Mad Cow Theater. The famed Orlando Museum of Art offers residents a glimpse at numerous art collections as well as plenty of programs and workshops. Other popular museums include the Morse Museum of American Art, the Mennello Museum of American Art and the Orlando Science Center – just to name a few.
  • Orlando’s public schools are excellent – Those looking to send their children to a top-notch public school won’t have trouble finding one in and around the Orlando area. According to AreaVibes, high school graduation rates in the city are nearly four percent higher than the U.S. average and test scores are above average. Niche.com also ranked the Orange County Public School District seventh for most diverse school districts in Florida.

Ready to move to Orlando, Florida?

For more information about Orlando, Florida, check Moving.com’s City Profile Report feature. Our reports include city demographics, real estate information, quality of life factors and more. Simply enter the zip code or the state and city of your potential move to get a free report at the click of a button. For help finding and booking the best moving company, check Moving.com’s extensive network of reputable and reliable interstate movers. All relocation companies in our network are licensed and insured, so you can rest assured that your move will be in good hands. Best of luck and happy moving!