Real Cost of Living in Orlando FL | 2025 Budget Breakdown

💸 The Real Cost of Living in Orlando: Utilities, Taxes & More (2025 Update)

Orlando might be known for its theme parks and sunshine, but what’s it really like to budget for life here? If you’re thinking about relocating to Central Florida, it's important to look beyond the price tag on Zillow and understand the true monthly and annual costs that come with homeownership in the Greater Orlando area.

From utility bills and property taxes to insurance and hidden HOA fees, here’s a real-world look at the cost of living in Orlando—including the Seminole, Orange, and Volusia County suburbs where many buyers are choosing to live.

🏠 1. Housing Costs – Orlando vs. Surrounding Cities

In 2025, home prices in Orlando and surrounding areas are steady but still elevated, with limited inventory and growing demand in popular suburbs like Lake Mary, Oviedo, and DeLand.

Average Home Prices (as of mid-2025):

• Downtown Orlando: $480K+

• Lake Mary / Longwood: $500K–$700K

• Oviedo / Winter Springs: $475K–$650K

• Sanford / Deltona / DeBary: $350K–$475K

• DeLand / Orange City: $325K–$475K

💡 Pro Tip: You’ll get more square footage and land in Volusia County, but may pay more for insurance depending on location and structure type.

💡 2. Utility Bills – What to Expect Each Month

💧 Water, Sewer & Trash:

• Average monthly cost: $60–$120 depending on usage and whether you're on city water or well + septic

• Trash pickup is often billed quarterly by the city or included in property taxes

🔌 Electric (Duke Energy, FPL, OUC):

• 3-bedroom home average: $150–$300/month

• Larger homes or those with pools can reach $400+ in summer

• Florida homes rely heavily on air conditioning, especially in May–September

🌐 Internet & Cable:

• Basic internet: $65–$90/month

• Streaming/cable bundles: $100–$150/month if included

🚨 Homes with older windows, poor insulation, or outdated HVAC systems may have significantly higher energy costs.

🏦 3. Property Taxes – Vary Widely by County

Florida has no state income tax, but we make it up in property taxes.

Average Effective Property Tax Rates:

• Orange County: ~0.95%

• Seminole County: ~0.91%

• Volusia County: ~0.87%

On a $400,000 home, expect:

• Orange County: ~$3,800/year

• Seminole County: ~$3,600/year

• Volusia County: ~$3,480/year

🏡 Homestead Exemption can reduce your taxable value by up to $50,000, significantly lowering your bill if the home is your primary residence.

🏚️ 4. Homeowners Insurance – A Major Factor in Florida

Due to hurricane risk and rising insurance rates, this is often the biggest surprise for out-of-state buyers.

Average Annual Home Insurance:

• Inland homes (Lake Mary, DeLand): $2,200–$3,200

• Near the coast (NSB, Daytona): $3,500–$6,000+

• Homes with roofs older than 15 years may be uninsurable without updates

🌀 Flood insurance is not required everywhere, but is a must in FEMA flood zones—and typically adds $600–$1,500/year.

💡 Tip: New construction, homes with 2020+ roofs, and wind mitigation reports can help lower premiums.

📦 5. HOA Fees – Do You Need to Budget for One?

Typical HOA Costs:

• Basic communities: $250–$500/year

• Gated or amenity-rich communities: $100–$300/month

• Golf or 55+ communities: $250–$500+/month

Before buying, always confirm:

• What’s included? (Cable, internet, landscaping?)

• Are there Covenants & Restrictions on RVs, boats, rentals, etc.?

🏡 There are plenty of no-HOA neighborhoods in areas like Deltona, Osteen, DeLand, and parts of Sanford.

🛠️ 6. Maintenance & Misc. Costs You Should Expect

Florida homes face sun, storms, and humidity—so plan for routine upkeep.

Ongoing Costs:

• Lawn care: $100–$200/month

• Pest control: $30–$60/month

• AC maintenance: ~$150–$250/year

• Roof reserves: Budget for replacement every 15–20 years

💡 Tip: If buying in older neighborhoods, factor in future updates to plumbing, electric, windows, and insulation.

🎯 Final Thoughts – Is Orlando Affordable?

Compared to major metros like Miami, Tampa, or out-of-state cities like LA or NYC, Orlando still offers value—especially when factoring in:

• No state income tax

• Lower cost of insurance inland

• More land and freedom in Seminole and Volusia County suburbs

But it’s important to go in with clear expectations. The real cost of living in Orlando isn’t just your mortgage—it’s utilities, insurance, taxes, and lifestyle choices, too.

🔑 Need a Local to Help You Budget Right?

If you're moving to Orlando—or upgrading within Central Florida—The Peterson Group at Keller Williams Heritage Realty can help you navigate real costs, smart neighborhoods, and homes that fit your budget and goals. Call Charlie at (386) 259 - 0744.

Let’s take the guesswork out of your move.