Florida Real Estate: 5 Places Where Home Prices Are Still Cheap
Written by
Caitlyn Moorhead
Edited by
Heather Taylor
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Whether you are in search of warmer climates or mortgage rates you can afford on a fixed income, Florida has long been known as a popular retirement destination and real estate haven with relatively affordable housing. Home prices have risen substantially in recent years, especially in popular coastal cities like Miami Beach, when compared to the national average.
With the 2025 housing market in full swing, it’s good to know how home prices are stacking up. Here are some key takeaways according to Zillow:
- The median home value across the United States is $409,300.
- In comparison, popular Florida metro areas command substantially higher valuations. Miami, for example, has the highest average home values, and the median sale price is about $620,000.
- Tampa homes are worth $429,661, which is still about 5% pricier than the typical U.S. home.
However, there are still pockets across the state where real estate remains relatively cheap or even downright affordable. For homebuyers looking for deals, the cities listed here offer an opportunity to buy into the Florida lifestyle at a fraction of the cost.
Fort Myers
Located along Florida’s southwest Gulf Coast, Fort Myers is known as the “City of Palms” because of its lush tropical landscape. Fort Myers offers an affordable coastal lifestyle close to beaches like Sanibel and Captiva Islands. The average home value in Fort Myers is currently around $342,598, according to Zillow.
Laura Adams, senior analyst at Aceable, said, “It’s another Southwest coastal city that offers affordable housing, proximity to beaches and various recreations, making it a top choice for both families and retirees.”
Retirees flock to Fort Myers for the warm weather and comparably lower cost of living. Families are also drawn by affordable homes, good schools and access to the coast. For both demographics, Fort Myers provides an appealing mix of housing value, employment and lifestyle along Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Ocala
Moving south, Ocala offers even more relative affordability within commuting distance of Orlando and the I-75 corridor. Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Ocala is surrounded by hundreds of thoroughbred horse farms and rolling green pastures. Situated near the Ocala National Forest, it provides easy access to nature and recreation.
“The Villages is a sprawling retirement community near Ocala that continues to attract retirees who want to enjoy its amenities, active lifestyle and wide range of housing options,” Adams said. “It has a combination of seasonal and full-time residents. “
Homebuyers can choose from reasonably priced single-family homes, as well as ages 55-plus active senior communities. Currently, in 2025, the average home value in Ocala is $270,353, according to Zillow — significantly below the state and national median prices. With its natural beauty and slower pace of life, Ocala gives buyers a small-town feel just an hour’s drive from Orlando.
Winter Haven
Winter Haven provides affordable homes amid glistening lakes and natural beauty. It boasts over 100 lakes ideal for boating, fishing and watersports. The average home value in Winter Haven is $282,801, per Zillow, while the median listing price for a home is $302,100 as the real estate market heads into the second quarter of 2025.
“Situated near Lakeland, Winter Haven attracts nature lovers with its lakes and parks, and affordable homes with a median price of around $280,000,” said Colin Hannan, principal at Proven Partners.
Bartow
Moving inland to Polk County, Bartow provides reasonably priced homes near the I-4 corridor between Tampa and Orlando. Known as the “City of Oaks and Azaleas,” historic downtown Bartow features Victorian homes and blooming flowers. The average home value in Bartow, Florida is $267,606 per Zillow, which is a 0.9% decrease from last year.
Homosassa Springs
Homosassa Springs provides a serene environment and attractive home prices. Located on the Gulf Coast north of Tampa, it is known for its freshwater springs, wildlife, boating, fishing and golf.
According to Zillow, the average home value is around $311,299, which is a 0.8% decrease from the last year. The median listing price for homes in Homosassa was $356,583 as of March 2025, which is also a decrease from the previous year. The median home sold price was approximately $318,000.
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