13 Best Places To Live In Florida In 2025
Florida works its magic with its theme parks like Disney World, but take a step out and you can find yourselves the perfect home. Whether you're seeking a peaceful waterfront retreat, a growing city with career opportunities, or a family-friendly suburb with top-tier schools, the Sunshine State has a place for you.
DeLand has historic architecture and a university-town atmosphere. Meanwhile, tech professionals and entrepreneurs are fueling growth in places like Winter Springs. Florida’s appeal isn’t just about warm weather and tax benefits; it’s about finding the right balance of lifestyle, affordability, and opportunity. No matter your priorities, these 13 towns stand out in 2025 as the best places to live in Florida.
Edgewater
18 miles from Daytona Beach, Edgewater provides a serene environment without sacrificing essential amenities along Florida's eastern shoreline. The city thrives on its robust boat manufacturing industry with players including Boston Whaler and EdgeWater Power Boats. Typical homes are priced around $335,000.
Community life in Edgewater is enriched by its proximity to natural attractions. The Indian River bestows opportunities for boating, fishing, and waterfront relaxation. Ingrid's Produce Plus Wholesome Organic is the local farmers market selling fresh eggs, heirloom tomatoes, and honey varieties. Townspeople flock to the Menard-May Park for fishing, playing volleyball, picnicking, or grilling. There is also a sandy boat launch available.
Bartow
Bartow is just under an hour from Tampa but very cost-effective, with houses starting at $319,900. Sectors like government, mining, agriculture, and manufacturing employ most working residents. The Polk County School Board, headquartered in Bartow, oversees a substantial workforce dedicated to education. Additionally, companies like PalletOne, a leading manufacturer of wood pallets, contribute to the local manufacturing industry. The Bartow Regional Medical Center ensures that routine and specialized healthcare needs are met within the community.
Bartow provides several parks and recreational facilities. Mosaic Peace River Park boasts nearly 8 miles of trails and wildlife observation. Similarly, the Fort Fraser Trail is popular among walkers and cyclists, providing a 7-mile environment for exercise and relaxation. Additionally, proximity to institutions like Florida Southern College presents residents with opportunities for higher education and professional development.
Winter Springs
Winter Springs is where new residents can find suburban tranquility and urban convenience. Around 20,000 individuals find themselves in endeavors, including professional, scientific, educational services, and healthcare and social assistance in companies such as Alpha EMC and IRadimed. Despite being a mere 20 minutes from Orlando, the housing hovers around the state average at $411,000.
Life in Winter Springs is always buzzing. Central Winds Park takes about 100 acres by Lake Jesup and is popular for walking, baseball, soccer, volleyball, and a dog park. The park also hosts events like live music performances and the Scottish Highland Games. Celebrations such as the Winter Springs Festival of the Arts and the Hometown Harvest further enhance the city's cultural landscape.
Tarpon Springs
Tarpon Springs derives a majority of its income from tourism. Hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops, and rentals benefit from the inflow of tourists. While the residence expense at $449,000 may be slightly higher, the city's offerings provide value that many residents find worthwhile.
Culturally, Tarpon Springs flaunts a rich Greek heritage, often referred to as the "Sponge Capital of the World." The historic Sponge Docks area features the city's sponge diving history, with numerous shops and eateries reflecting authentic Greek culture. The Fred Howard Park provides pristine beaches and recreational facilities, making it a favored spot for picnics, swimming, and sunset views. The Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center is a 1925 building, to go to for theater productions, concerts, and cultural festivals.
Sebastian
Sebastian draws people along the state's picturesque Treasure Coast to get their dream home for $370,000. If you are a medical professional, Sebastian should be a top choice, with nearly 1200 people in the Health Care & Social Assistance department. The Indian River Medical Center and Sebastian River Medical Center are where you can go for treatments or job applications.
Sebastian's natural beauty is a significant draw. Riverview Park is an ideal choice for kayak launches, piers, a splash pad, and playgrounds. Every November, Sebastian Clambake also takes place here. It is a fun weekend with a kid's zone, music, and lip-smacking food, including crisp clam strips, linguine, and steamed clams. Hardee Park is the inland alternative to take kids for swings and slides.
DeLand
DeLand, or the "Athens of Florida," is an appealing choice for those considering a move to the Sunshine State in 2025. Stetson University, founded in 1883, is the oldest private university in Florida and serves as one of DeLand's largest employers, providing numerous academic and administrative positions. In the healthcare sector, AdventHealth DeLand takes care of local medical requirements. The manufacturing industry is represented by companies like Kingspan Insulated Panels, which specializes in building materials. $368,000 seems affordable with all the amenities in DeLand.
DeLand is not a quiet town by any means. The 1920s Athens Theatre has been renovated and organizes plays, musicals, and concerts. The nearby Blue Spring State Park is by far the coolest spot. You can choose between hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing, particularly the West Indian manatees that frequent the springs during chillier months.
Dunedin
Dunedin is a Gulf Coast that feels laid-back and lively, where waterfront charm meets a strong sense of community. Tourism plays a key role in the local economy, thanks to the nearby Honeymoon Island State Park and Caladesi Island, two of the most picturesque beach destinations in the state. Visitors and locals frequent these spots for kayaking, hiking, and wildlife watching. The city has several independent boutiques, craft breweries, and restaurants, many of which support the local economy and provide employment. Dunedin Brewery, the oldest craft brewery in Florida, is a staple, drawing in beer enthusiasts from across the region.
Beyond tourism, healthcare is another pillar of the economy. Mease Dunedin Hospital, part of BayCare Health System, is another driver. Living in Dunedin comes at a premium of $375,000, given its coastal location. Dunedin’s calendar is packed with events to keep residents busy. The annual Highland Games, a nod to the city’s Scottish roots, features traditional bagpipes, dancing, and athletic competitions. The Downtown Market is also a weekend favorite, with local farmers, artisans, and live music.
Punta Gorda
Unlike Florida’s sprawling cities, the Charlotte Harbor town of Punta Gorda keeps things intimate with its under 25,000 populace. The Fishermen’s Village, a waterfront shopping and dining complex, is both a tourist attraction and an economic pusher, supporting local businesses and creating retail and hospitality jobs. Punta Gorda Airport, home to budget airline Allegiant Air, also plays a role in economic development, bringing visitors and proposing employment in aviation and service industries. The median home price is roughly $399,900, reflecting high demand for waterfront properties.
Outdoor pursuit is a significant part of life here. Boaters have easy access to Charlotte Harbor, one of the country’s largest estuaries, perfect for fishing, sailing, and kayaking. Gilchrist Park, with its waterfront views, tennis courts, and walking paths, is a community hub.
Davenport
Davenport is a small but rapidly growing town in Central Florida, attractive for affordability and convenience. Many residents work in the greater Orlando area, particularly in hospitality and entertainment, thanks to Davenport’s proximity to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and other theme parks. One of Davenport’s biggest draws is its cost-effectiveness compared to other parts of Central Florida. Homes ready to buy for $399,500, are significantly lower than in nearby Orlando, making it a top choice for first-time homebuyers and retirees.
While it doesn’t have the same level of entertainment as Orlando, Davenport has its share of outdoor recreation. Northeast Regional Park is a local 83-acre favorite, featuring walking trails, sports fields, and a boat ramp for access to Lake Davenport. When looking to admire budding talent, TheatreWorks Florida-Theatre & Studio reserves the evening spot. Residents can also take classes if theatre interests them.
Orange Park
Orange Park, a suburban town just south of Jacksonville, is making a name for being one of North Florida’s best places to call home. One of the biggest job listers is HCA Florida Orange Park Hospital, a full-service medical center providing emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. Naval Air Station Jacksonville, 10 minutes away, also supports thousands of active-duty military personnel, veterans, and civilians in defense-related industries. Housing in Orange Park remains more reasonable than in Jacksonville and the United States at $340,000 in 2025.
Recreation plays a big role in the town’s lifestyle. The St. Johns River presents boating, fishing, and waterfront dining, while local parks like Clarke House Park provide walking trails and playgrounds for families. The Thrasher-Horne Center, a performing arts venue, hosts concerts, theater productions, and community events, adding a cultural touch to the town.
Inverness
Inverness thrives on its connection to lakes, forests, and trails rather than beaches, presenting a different kind of outdoor lifestyle. Government jobs play a crucial role, with the Citrus County Courthouse and other administrative offices employing many residents. Tourism is another side, with visitors drawn to Inverness for its fishing, hiking, and cycling opportunities, particularly along the Withlacoochee State Trail, one of Florida’s longest paved rail trails.
Inverness is also a magnet with a house-buying cost of $267,000. The town sits on the shores of Lake Henderson, with excellent fishing, boating, and kayaking opportunities. Liberty Park and Wallace Brooks Park have lovely spots for picnics, waterfront strolls, and shuffleboard. Finally, the Valerie Theatre is a 1920s standout to catch the flicks with family.
Crystal River
Crystal River is all about crystal-clear springs and the thriving population of West Indian manatees. Tourism is the backbone of the local economy, with visitors flocking to Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, Three Sisters Springs, and Kings Bay for snorkeling, kayaking, and manatee viewing. But the economy isn’t solely reliant on tourism—healthcare plays a key role as well. Tampa General Hospital Crystal River, an essential employer in the area, keeps people on their toes. Crystal River is for those looking for waterfront living at a fair price which is $365,000 in 2025.
Beyond its natural wonders, Hunter Springs Park is a favorite gathering place for families, with picnic areas, a sandy beach, and easy access to the water. Additionally, the Crystal River Archaeological State Park showcases Native American shell mounds that date back over a thousand years.
Ormond Beach
Unlike its busier neighbor, Ormond Beach provides a more relaxed atmosphere while still giving residents easy access to entertainment, healthcare, and career opportunities. While the hospitality industry benefits from visitors drawn to the city’s historic sites and beaches, manufacturing is the game. Companies like Hudson Technologies and Germfree Laboratories provide jobs in precision engineering and medical manufacturing.
Property costs in Ormond Beach are competitive at $421,500 for a coastal city. Golfers can take advantage of courses like the Plantation Bay Golf & Country Club, with its championship-level greens and resort-style amenities. The Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens pay respects to the Second World War soldiers with its memorial and also have contemporary exhibits. The Casements, the former winter home of John D. Rockefeller, hosts community events such as culinary, fitness, pilates, and art workshops.
Final Thought
Finding the perfect place to call home in Florida isn’t just about sunshine and beaches, it’s about choosing a town that aligns with your lifestyle, career goals, and sense of community. For those craving waterfront living without the chaos of major tourist hubs, Punta Gorda and Crystal River are the go-tos. If access to high-paying jobs and strong public schools is a priority, areas like Winter Springs and Orange Park strike a balance. In 2025, these best places to live in Florida allow the new residents to thrive.
