While you may think of roller coasters and cotton candy when you hear Orlando, the sunny city is more than its famous amusement parks. Known as the City Beautiful, Orlando, Florida, has something to offer for every kind of lifestyle. From exploring nature to dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, the city boasts a rich and vibrant culture. It is great for families and young professionals alike, with a diverse range of neighborhoods that boast excellent school districts or trendy, pedestrian-friendly urban streets.
With all that in mind, you’re probably wondering how expensive it is to live in Orlando, Florida. We’ve got you covered with a look into all of the major costs that come with living in Orlando.
Table of Contents
Housing
The city [has an] excellent down payment assistance program, which provided me with a grant to buy my first home, and the city does a lot to support homeowners.
Martin Orefice, Orlando local, CEO, Rent To Own Labs
Orlando’s housing market has experienced rapid growth in the years since the pandemic, driven by job growth and an influx of remote workers relocating to the area. However, buyers may find relief as the market is currently experiencing a cooling phase. The median sale price of a home in Orlando was $390,000 in August 2025, down 1.3% from last year.
Rent costs are slightly above the national average, with a median monthly rent of $1,634. The market remains competitive, although Orlando real estate tends to fluctuate seasonally, with demand typically peaking in the summer and slowing during the winter months. The city features a diverse range of neighborhoods, so home prices can vary significantly depending on the location. Whether you prefer to be in the heart of the action or on a quiet, tree-lined street, Orlando offers options for every lifestyle.
Utilities
The cost of utilities—including electricity, cooling, heating, water, and garbage—averages around $199.54 a month, which is slightly higher than the national average. Due to Orlando’s hot, muggy summers and mild winters, electricity bills tend to vary throughout the year. A monthly phone plan and internet both hover around $75 a month. While internet access in Orlando is similar to the national average, phone coverage is significantly cheaper.
Grocery
The average grocery bill for a household with two adults is around $550 a month. However, costs can vary by up to 20% depending on where you shop and whether you choose organic or specialty items. Basic staples, such as eggs, milk, and bread, are generally available for under $5 each.
With over 6,000 restaurants, Orlando offers dining options to suit every budget. You can grab a quick, tasty meal for under $10 or splurge on a fine dining experience at a Michelin Guide–recommended restaurant. From classic burgers to fusion tacos and authentic Vietnamese cuisine, Orlando boasts a diverse and vibrant food scene.
Health
While healthcare costs in Florida vary depending on the number of people covered and the type of service, the state is ranked among the most expensive for healthcare in the U.S. Without insurance, a routine visit to a primary care physician typically costs between $150 and $300. Emergency room visits can range from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on the services provided.
Despite the high costs, Orlando offers excellent healthcare options. The city is home to several top-rated hospitals and medical organizations. AdventHealth Orlando has been recognized as one of the best hospitals in the nation and the top hospital in Florida. It holds national rankings in several specialties, including cancer, neurology, and orthopedics.
Orlando Health, a nonprofit healthcare network, also ranks highly in specialties such as diabetes care, cardiology, and geriatrics. The organization operates more than 4,500 facilities throughout the Orlando area, ensuring quality care is accessible across the city.
Transportation
Living in Orlando generally requires a car. Although the city has a public bus system, residents often report that it’s unreliable and lacks sufficient routes outside the downtown area. On the plus side, transportation costs are slightly below the national average, with gas prices averaging $3.29 per gallon and tire balancing costing around $56.56.
Walkability varies by neighborhood, as some areas offer ample walking and biking trails, while others are more car-dependent. So, while a vehicle is necessary for getting around Orlando and its surrounding areas, you may not need to rely on it as much within your own neighborhood.
Miscellaneous
General items, goods, and services are slightly less expensive than the national average. While individual prices vary, many are close to the national average. For example, a movie ticket costs slightly more at $15.04, and a visit to a beauty salon will run you $54.40. On the other hand, pizza is more affordable, averaging $11.28, over a dollar cheaper than the national average.
Basic household items like ibuprofen, toothpaste, and shampoo are typically within $0.20 of the national average. Alcohol prices are also comparable, with beer and wine generally priced within $0.50 of the national average.
Those interested in visiting Orlando’s most famous attractions should be prepared to spend a significant amount. Standard one-day tickets to Disney World start at $119 and vary by date, while tickets to Universal Orlando begin at $129. Costs within the parks can vary widely depending on the number of visitors and participation in dining, shopping, and additional entertainment. Florida residents can save money not only on lodging and flights but also through special discounts offered at both parks.
Overall, Orlando’s cost of living is generally aligned with national trends. The extent to which your budget needs to be adjusted depends largely on the region you’re moving from.
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Income
The median household income in Orlando is $77,597, just slightly lower than the national average. The overall cost of living in Orlando, Florida, hovers around the national average, suggesting that the city’s median income is a perfectly livable budget. But with a rapidly growing tech industry and high employment rates, there are numerous opportunities for job growth. There is also no state income tax in Florida, which can result in significant savings for those relocating from cities with very high costs of living, such as New York or Los Angeles.
Conclusion
Overall, Orlando, Florida’s cost of living is 4% lower than the national average. The city offers notable savings in housing, while other expenses, such as transportation and groceries, generally align with national averages. Florida’s lack of state income tax can also result in significant savings, especially for those moving from higher-tax states. With a growing job market, particularly in the tech region, Orlando is ever-expanding and open to new residents.
Ultimately, how affordable Orlando is depends on your lifestyle and spending habits. Choosing to live in a walkable neighborhood can cut down on transportation costs. With its relatively average costs, you may want to consider putting your extra pocket change towards a new pair of flip flops instead of winter boots.
FAQs
How much does it cost to live in Orlando, Florida?
The cost of living in Orlando, Florida, is 4% lower than the national average. The median income is $77,597, just slightly lower than the national average, which should make for a comfortable budget. Costs will vary based on neighborhoods, grocery choices, and extra goods and services. Housing is notably more affordable than the national average, leaving extra room for other necessities or fun.
Is it expensive to live in Orlando, Florida?
With a cost of living that is 4% lower than the national average, it shouldn’t be too expensive to live in Orlando, Florida. While this will depend on the number of people in your household, health insurance access, and income, Orlando is significantly cheaper than other metropolitan cities in the United States. Healthcare without insurance is much more expensive than the national average, but housing is less. Most costs, such as transportation and groceries, are right around the national average.
How much is housing in Orlando, Florida?
Housing in Orlando is less expensive than the national average. While the market has been rapidly growing and competitive in recent years, it has entered a cool-down period as of August 2025. The median sale price of a home was $390,000, while the median rent is $1,634.
Elisa Miller grew up in Chicago and recently graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with degrees in English and Communications. If she is not lost in a book, she can be found running, watching 30 Rock, or doing a puzzle.
