8 Safest & Cheapest Beach Towns in Florida

The oceanfront landscape, sun-kissed beaches, sizzling seafood cooked along the streets, and salty air always draw in every beach lover. And, what if I find you some clothing-optional beaches too in Florida? Florida is no less than heaven for beachgoers!

The Southeastern part of the United States is a gem, and people often ponder whether to visit Florida or Georgia. Before making your destination choice, you can consider reading the pros and cons of living in Florida and Georgia. I’m a native of Florida.

And when it comes to enjoying the sea, what place can be better than Florida? “We” all pray and hope that one day we can buy a budget-friendly home in this beautiful Sunshine State.

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I spent my childhood here before shifting to California for studies and settling down. I still come back to Florida as it holds my roots, my friends, and my family. I can tell you that no place is as liberal as Florida; here, the residents are very helpful and thoughtful.

You can read my other blog on Florida’s pros and cons of living from a retiree’s viewpoint, a more in-depth understanding of the place.

For this blog, I’ve scrolled through Zillow to find the cheapest waterfront towns in Florida, so that you can live a happy life with your family. Retirees have so many affordable places to live in Florida.

Let’s explore the most affordable beach towns in Florida.

Cheapest Beach Towns in Florida

1. Deerfield Beach

• Population: 85, 590
• Cost of living index: 98.4(US average of 100)
• Crime rate: 21.11 (per 1,000 residents)

Situated in Broward County, South Florida, between Palm Beach and Miami, Deerfield Beach offers seaside homes with a much lower price tag, averaging around $153,600. 

Homebuyers can find comprehensive budgeting packages in all 14 neighborhoods. Undoubtedly, Deerfield Beach stands as a perfect vacation home destination for Floridians.  

In terms of transportation, individuals spend an average of $8,388. The cost of food is 5.0% lower than the national average. 

While you can enjoy pristine beaches, it’s important to note that the urban vibe of Miami is not present here. Moreover, families and retirees love this low-cost beach destination in Florida.

Deerfield was certified by the National Clean Beaches Coalition for its “Blue Waves,” ensuring the cleanliness of its beaches.  

Employment opportunities primarily stem from the sports, healthcare, gastronomy, education, and tourism sectors. 

Additionally, nearby major cities offer opportunities in the tech field. Deerfield Beach boasts the best Atlantic Ocean views, numerous parks, and a vibrant nightlife.

Things to do in Deerfield Beach

• Come to Quite Waters Park, a package of fun activities to perform – from cable water skiing, and camping to exploring the marina, The place is perfect
• Walk your daily 10,000 steps at Deerfield Beach’s Broadwalk, enjoying the air of palm trees and having delicious seafood
• Spend time by the International Fishing Pier, admiring the beauty of the 967-foot pier
• See the Zombie Palm and other 200 species of trees at Constitution Park, which is also called a “tree zoo”

2. Titusville

• Population: 49, 084
• Cost of living index: 87.9 (US average of 100)
• Crime rate: 27.17 (per 1,000 residents)

In Brevard County, along the Indian River Lagoon, sits Titusville—a “small town” that offers a cost of living 15.30% lower than the national average. 

The U.S. Space Walk of Fame is located here, earning Titusville the nickname “Space City, USA.” 

The city’s motto is “Gateway to Nature and Space,” offering excellent views of rocket launches.  

Adjacent to the town lies the Windover Archaeological Site, a National Historic Landmark that tells the story of human remains and artifacts from the Archaic Period.

Imagine having your child grow up around such gems! The median home value is approximately $204,900, with rents averaging around $910 per month. 

To get a glimpse of the town’s beauty, I recommend watching the YouTube video titled “Unofficial Titusville, FL Tourism.” Even years later, I can still relate to it.  

Titusville is known for hosting various events that bring the community together. Undoubtedly, it stands as one of the most affordable Florida beach towns for retirees. 

They can spend their days watching the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the flowing rivers. 

Personally, I love visiting in December. The “Light of Hopes” at Sand Point Park, with its Christmas lights, sounds, and cheer, can make anyone the happiest person. You can always cherish the memories created here.

Things to do in Titusville        

• Take your children to Titusville Playground to enjoy the children’s program. You can also enjoy special shows and music
• Come to Fox Lake Park to have some premium experience of fishing, playing sand volleyball, and more
• Enjoy a glass of cold beer at The Space Bar, a themed rooftop bar

3. Daytona Beach

• Population: 79,920
• Cost of living index: 86.7 (US average of 100)
• Crime rate: 38.65 ( per 1,000 residents)

Daytona Beach, located just 10 miles from Ponce Inlet and a short drive from Orlando, is renowned for its budget-friendly beach communities and its reputation as a destination for students partying during spring breaks. 

Situated on the vibrant east coast of Florida, this city is a dream not only for families but also for car enthusiasts and those who enjoy more peaceful pastimes. 

Residents revel in the beachfront lifestyle it offers. Affordable homes can be found in South Daytona, where the cost of living is 10% lower than in other U.S. cities.

Starting at $141,000, homes in this area offer a cost-effective option. The city is well-served by public transportation buses operated by Votran, known for their reliability and affordability, with a ride costing only $1.75.  

The dedication of teachers, administrators, and counselors plays a significant role in offering quality education, which is why families are drawn to settling down here. 

A major attraction is the city’s remarkably low crime rates, particularly in terms of violent crimes. Lifeguards consistently patrol the streets at night, effectively keeping criminal activities in check.

Things to do in Daytona Beach

• Enjoy your time at Daytona Lagoon, a fun waterpark
• Take your car to visit Smyrna Dunes Park, picnicking, or swinging on the hammocks, or enjoying the coastal air
• Daytona Beach is home to manatees, you can go on a kayaking tour with manatees
• Come to Dunlawton Sugar Mill Garden, a 19th-century colonial sugar mill

4. Tarpon Spring

• Population: 26, 442
• Cost of living index: 104 (US average of 100)
• Crime rate: 17. 80 (per 1,000 residents)

Tarpon Springs in Pinellas County is one of the affordable coastal towns on Florida’s Gulf Coast, where the median home value is around $195,800. 

Not only that, but grocery prices are also lower than in many cities. This charming town has a delightful Greek flair, with sponge docks that have been a part of the town since the 1990s. 

You should definitely visit for shopping and fine dining at the historic Sponge Docks. At Spongeroama Sponge Factory, you can witness natural sea sponges. 

Tarpon Springs offers the perfect setting for a fantastic vacation. If you choose to reside here, it means you’re immersing yourself in a rich cultural heritage.  

Families often choose this affordable seaside town in Florida because the Pinellas County schools have been ranked as the best in the state. 

You might want to check out Plato Academy if you wish for your child to learn the Greek language. This inexpensive Gulf Coast beach town in Florida should be on your list!

Keep in mind that the economy is driven by the tourism industry, so you will always be surrounded by people from all over the world who are traveling.

Things to do in Tarpon Spring

• Plan camping at Fred Howard Park
• Art lovers come to The Leepa – Rattner Museum
• Attend festivals like Sponge Docks Seafood Festival, and the Tarpon Springs Fine Arts Festival

5. Lynn Haven

• Population: 19, 772
• Cost of living index: 95.5 (US average of 100)
• Crime rate: 11.16 (per 1,000 residents)

World Population Review ranked Lynn Haven as the 10th safest and cheapest beach town in Florida. The violent crime rate in Lynn Haven stood at 1.41 incidents per one thousand individuals.

Lynn Haven is a quaint sparse suburban town sitting in Bay County, just north of Panama City. You’ll enjoy a suburban feel and have access to pristine white sandy beaches.

Families with younger children find varied options in schools and colleges. Gulf Coast State College and Florida State University are campuses where students love to enroll.

Renting here is low around $1, 071, whereas, purchasing a home starts from $191, 800 with an annual property tax amount of $1, 509.

Tourists love Lynn Haven because of its clear blue water and home to mouth-watering seafood. I recommend coming to Seafood and Oyster Bar, for tasting fish, shrimp, and lobster.

Things to do in Lynn Haven

• You can go biking and hiking at Apalachicola National Forest
• Snorkelers and outdoor enthusiasts should come to St. Andrews State Park
• Know history at The Museum of Man in the Sea

6. Ormond Beach

• Population: 44,205
• Cost of living index: 99.8 (US average of 100)
• Crime rate: 26.95 ( per 1,000 residents)

Ormond Beach shares its proximity with Daytona Beach, both of which enjoy Florida’s sunshine and boast natural stretches of Atlantic shores. In Ormond Beach, you’ll discover colorful seashells, tree-filled parks, and a unique atmosphere with very less crowds.

This place in Volusia County earned its name in 1902 due to automobile races between Daytona Beach and Ormond Beach. Till now it’s one of the famous tourist destinations where tourists from the North come to escape harsh winters and enjoy the sun.

The homes along the waterfront are available at $ 300,000 providing the picturesque views and scenic tranquillity you dream for! Moreover for wallet-friendly oceanfront living, you’ve to go to interiors where home prices start from $ 195, 500.

Things to do in Ormond Beach

• Ormond Beach has dozens of beautiful buildings and catholic churches, so you can spend mornings exploring
• Enjoy Florida’s natural beauty by hiking looking at pine trees at Tiger Bay State Forest
• Andy Romano Beachfront Park is a fun place for every kids 

7. Lake Worth

• Population: 42,219
• Cost of living index:
• Crime rate: 37.89 (per 1,000 residents)

Lake Worth stands as a captivating coastal city within Palm Beach County which is also called a “Paradise on Earth”. The gentle waves of the Atlantic Ocean and the expansive waters of Lake Worth Lagoon are what you’ll be amazed to witness.

However, the cost of living is 4% higher than the national average but the real estate market and home amenities are quite affordable. You can get a median home value starting at $182, 700, less than the national value of $204, 900.

Also, the job market growth has been positive for the past few years with management and the financial sector holding the economy upright. On average a single adult earns $60, 081.

This is one of the cost-effective waterfront towns in Florida for families as Lake Worth has been ranked 48 of 876 as the most diverse place to live in Florida lists and has good schooling facilities.

Things to do in Lake Worth:

• You can go fishing with your grandfather at Bryant Park
• You can camp with your kid at John Prince Park
• Explore the downtown and also visit The Pelican Restaurant for brunch
• On the second and fourth Fridays from November to February, the beach by the Lake Worth Beach Casino & Beach Complex comes alive with the warm glow of a bonfire, illuminating the night, Try to attend it

8. Pensacola

• Population: 52, 342
• Cost of living index: 87.2 (US average of 100)
• Crime rate:

White sand beaches, a rich history, fantastic outdoor adventure activities, and delightful weather already establish Pensacola as one of the best places to live in Northwest Florida. However, what many people are unaware of is that it is also one of the more inexpensive beach towns along Florida’s coastline.

A single adult spends an average of $34, 258 a year, less than the annual cost of living in Florida. You’ll also find budget homes at $165, 700 and rent at $945 a month. The healthcare and grocery costs are 5% lower than the US average

The influential job market, encompassing finance, health care, the hospitality sector, as well as government positions, plays a pivotal role in maintaining a robust economy with a consistent minimum job growth rate of 1.9%.

Additionally, residents are fortunate, as they need not travel far for international flights, thanks to Pensacola having its own international airport.

Things to do in Pensacola:

• Hop on a retro bus to take a delightful city tour
• To get an amazing view of the Gulf from Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
• Spend some time at Plaza de Luna

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FAQ: Cheapest Beach Towns in Florida