If you’ve spent any time living in Massachusetts, you know that the cost of living there can be steep. Between high housing prices, rising taxes, and the overall expense of daily life, it’s no wonder many Bay Staters are looking south for a more affordable lifestyle.
For many, St. Augustine FL has become a top contender — a place where history, sunshine, and affordability meet. But how does it really compare? Is living in St. Augustine Florida truly cheaper than living in Massachusetts? Let’s break it down by housing, taxes, utilities, and overall lifestyle.
Housing Costs: A Major Difference
Housing is often the single biggest expense difference between Massachusetts and St. Augustine Florida.
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Massachusetts: The median home price across the state hovers around $600,000, with prices far higher in the Boston area and coastal towns like Cape Cod or the North Shore. Renters can expect to pay well over $2,000 per month for a modest apartment in most cities.
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St. Augustine FL: The median home price in St. Johns County Florida sits around $450,000, with condos and townhomes often available at lower price points. While beachfront properties and historic homes downtown cost more, many buyers find they can afford larger homes with more amenities for the same or even less money.
👉 For those moving to St. Augustine Florida, the value per square foot is significantly higher — meaning you get more home, more land, and more lifestyle for your budget.
Taxes: Florida’s Financial Advantage
One of the biggest reasons people are moving to St. Augustine FL is the difference in taxes.
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Massachusetts: Residents pay both a state income tax and property taxes, with rates that can take a noticeable bite out of paychecks and retirement savings.
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Florida: There’s no state income tax — one of the most attractive perks for both working professionals and retirees. Property taxes in St. Augustine FL are also typically lower than in Massachusetts, even for similar property values.
That difference alone can save households thousands of dollars per year — freeing up money for travel, hobbies, or simply enjoying coastal life.
Everyday Expenses: How St. Augustine Adds Up
While prices vary depending on lifestyle, the general cost of living in St. Augustine Florida is lower than in Massachusetts.
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Utilities: Heating bills are minimal in Florida, though electricity costs for air conditioning rise during summer months.
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Groceries and Dining: Food prices are generally comparable, but dining out in St. Augustine FL often costs less than in major Massachusetts cities.
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Transportation: Fewer tolls, less traffic, and no snow tires or plowing bills make transportation noticeably more affordable.
In short, the day-to-day expenses of living in St. Augustine Florida tend to be easier on the wallet — especially for those coming from Boston, Worcester, or the Cape.
Lifestyle: Sunshine, Space, and Savings
Here’s where the biggest difference really shines — the lifestyle.
In Massachusetts, cold winters and high costs often limit leisure time and outdoor activities. In contrast, St. Augustine FL offers a year-round coastal lifestyle. Residents spend weekends kayaking, biking, golfing, or attending art walks downtown. The warm climate and strong community atmosphere mean you’re more likely to enjoy life outdoors — without breaking the bank.
And unlike other Florida cities, St. Augustine Florida blends history, charm, and culture with a manageable pace of growth, making it one of the top places to live in St. Augustine Florida and the entire Southeast.
Real Estate & Neighborhoods
If you’re researching where to live in St. Augustine Florida, you’ll find a mix of neighborhoods that fit every lifestyle and budget:
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Historic Downtown: Perfect for those who want walkability and culture.
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Anastasia Island: Beachside living with coastal charm.
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Palencia & World Golf Village: Resort-style amenities and family-friendly communities.
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St. Augustine South: Quiet, affordable, and close to the river.
Each of these areas offers its own balance of affordability, location, and lifestyle — and with the help of a local expert like Kim Devlin, St. Augustine Florida Realtor, you can find the best neighborhood that fits your needs and financial goals.
The Verdict: St. Augustine vs. Massachusetts
So, is the cost of living in St. Augustine FL lower than Massachusetts?
✅ Absolutely. From housing and taxes to daily expenses and overall quality of life, moving to St. Augustine Florida often means spending less and living more.
You’ll trade long winters for warm sunshine, tight budgets for financial breathing room, and big-city stress for historic coastal charm.
Conclusion
For families, retirees, and remote workers, St. Augustine FL offers a lifestyle that’s both affordable and inspiring. Lower taxes, lower housing costs, and a higher quality of life make this historic coastal town one of the best neighborhoods to live in St. Augustine Florida — and one of the smartest relocation choices for Massachusetts residents.
👉 Thinking about moving to St. Augustine FL? Contact Kim Devlin, your trusted Realtor in St. Augustine, for local insights and personalized guidance. My team specializes in St. Augustine real estate and relocation from the Northeast — we’ll help you find your perfect place to call home.