Florida Cost of Living Guide 2025: What You Need to Know Before Moving

Considering moving to St. Augustine, Florida? You're looking at one of the most charming coastal communities in the Sunshine State. With its cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture, St. Augustine FL offers a unique lifestyle that attracts thousands of new residents each year.

But before you make the big move to Saint Augustine, it's important to understand what living in Florida really costs in 2025. As your trusted St. Augustine realtor team, we've put together this comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.

The Housing Market in 2025

The St. Augustine real estate market remains competitive but is showing welcome signs of stabilization for potential buyers.

Home Buying in Saint Augustine FL

If you're considering purchasing property in St. Augustine FL, here's what you should know:

  • Median Home Price in St. Johns County: $537,000 (as of March 2025)
  • Year-Over-Year Price Growth: A modest 0.6% increase
  • Comparison to Florida Average: St. Augustine homes command premium prices compared to the state median of $412,000
  • Market Inventory: 4.6 months of supply, offering more options than in previous years
  • Buyer Advantage: Homes selling at approximately 96% of list price, indicating increased negotiating power
  • Mortgage Rates: Currently between 6.5-6.9%

The slowing appreciation rate (below 1%) in St. Johns County real estate suggests we're moving toward a more balanced market, which is good news if you're relocating to Florida and considering St. Augustine as your destination.

Rental Market in St. Augustine Florida

For those not ready to buy when moving to St. Augustine FL, the rental market offers options, though at relatively high prices:

  • Average Rent in St. Johns County: $2,400 per month (31% above the national average)
  • St. Augustine Specific Average: $2,250 per month
  • Premium Areas: Beachfront and historic district properties command significantly higher rents

The True Cost of Living in St. Augustine FL

Transportation & Insurance

Transportation costs in St. Augustine Florida present both advantages and challenges:

  • Gas Prices: Currently averaging about $2.93 per gallon
  • Florida Gas Tax: 26.5 cents per gallon (one of the nation's highest)
  • Auto Insurance: Full coverage averages $2,206 per year (55% higher than the national average)

A major consideration when living in St. Augustine FL is homeowners insurance:

  • Florida Average Annual Premium: $8,770 (a staggering 262% higher than the national average)
  • St. Augustine Advantage: Approximately $2,134 per year for a $250,000 policy
  • Regional Savings: Moving to St. Augustine Florida instead of areas like West Palm Beach can save you around $6,000 annually on insurance alone

This significant insurance cost difference makes St. Augustine FL one of the more affordable coastal options in Florida, providing substantial long-term savings for new residents.

Healthcare Benefits in Saint Augustine

Living in St. Augustine Florida offers some financial relief when it comes to healthcare:

  • Overall Healthcare Costs: About 14% lower than the national average
  • Typical Costs in St. Augustine FL:
    • Doctor's visit: $120.94
    • Dentist visit: $99.45
    • Optometrist visit: $110.77
    • Prescription medications: $209.96
  • Insurance Options: ACA subsidies can reduce health insurance premiums to as low as $100/month for qualifying individuals

Income and Budget Considerations

When planning your move to St. Augustine FL, be aware of these financial factors:

  • Florida Median Household Income: $63,062 (below the national median of $71,711)
  • Budget Planning: Higher costs in housing and insurance require careful financial planning
  • Tax Advantage: No state income tax remains one of the biggest financial benefits of living in Florida

Retiring in Florida: Pros and Cons of St. Augustine

St. Augustine Florida has become a popular retirement destination, but is it right for you? Here's what to consider:

Pros of Retiring in St. Augustine FL

  • No State Income Tax: Your retirement income goes further
  • Healthcare Access: Quality medical facilities and lower-than-average healthcare costs
  • Mild Winters: Escape snow and ice with year-round moderate temperatures
  • Active Lifestyle: Abundant outdoor activities including beaches, golf, and water sports
  • Rich Cultural Scene: Historical sites, art galleries, live music, and festivals
  • Walkable Historic District: Easier to maintain an active lifestyle without always driving

Cons of Retiring in Saint Augustine

  • Hurricane Risk: Potential evacuation and property damage concerns
  • Summer Heat: High temperatures and humidity from June through September
  • Tourist Traffic: Popular historic areas can become congested during peak seasons
  • Higher Insurance Costs: Though lower than South Florida, still higher than many states
  • Healthcare Specialties: May need to travel to Jacksonville for certain specialists

Living in Florida Pros and Cons: The St. Augustine Perspective

Advantages of Living in St. Augustine Florida

  • Historic Charm: America's oldest city offers unique architecture and ambiance
  • Educational Opportunities: Access to Flagler College and nearby universities
  • Outdoor Recreation: Miles of beaches, water activities, and natural preserves
  • Culinary Scene: Thriving restaurant environment with fresh seafood options
  • Cultural Attractions: Museums, Castillo de San Marcos, and regular cultural events
  • Community Feel: Despite tourism, maintains a strong local community identity

Challenges of St. Augustine FL Living

  • Tourism Impact: Popular areas can become crowded, especially during peak seasons
  • Cost of Living: Higher than many inland Florida locations
  • Job Market: Limited industry diversity compared to larger Florida cities
  • Public Transportation: Limited options require most residents to own vehicles
  • Growth Pressures: Rapid development in St. Johns County affecting infrastructure

St. Johns County Real Estate: Beyond Downtown St. Augustine

When moving to St. Augustine FL, consider these popular St. Johns County communities:

  • Ponte Vedra: Upscale living with renowned golf courses and beautiful beaches
  • Nocatee: Master-planned community popular with families, featuring extensive amenities
  • World Golf Village: Golf-centered living with resort-style amenities
  • Palencia: Luxury community with Spanish-influenced architecture
  • Vilano Beach: Coastal living with a more laid-back atmosphere than downtown
  • St. Augustine Shores: Established community offering more affordable housing options

Relocating to Florida: Why Choose St. Augustine?

When considering relocating to Florida, St. Augustine offers distinct advantages over other Florida destinations:

  • Balanced Climate: Milder summers than South Florida while still enjoying warm winters
  • Insurance Savings: Significantly lower homeowners insurance than many coastal areas
  • Cultural Depth: Richer historical experience than many newer Florida communities
  • Scale and Pace: Less congestion and a more manageable pace than larger Florida cities
  • Educational Quality: St. Johns County consistently ranks among Florida's top school districts
  • Authentic Character: Established community identity versus the more manufactured feel of some newer developments

Finding Your Perfect Florida Home

The Kim Devlin Team specializes in helping people moving to St. Augustine FL find their ideal home. Whether you're interested in:

  • Historic district properties with Spanish colonial charm
  • Waterfront homes with Intracoastal or ocean views
  • Family-friendly neighborhoods with top-rated schools
  • Low-maintenance condos ideal for snowbirds
  • Investment properties in this popular tourist destination

We understand that moving to St. Augustine Florida is about finding not just a house, but a lifestyle that suits your unique needs and preferences.

Is Moving to St. Augustine FL Right for You?

St. Augustine Florida living offers a unique blend of historical charm, coastal beauty, and Florida sunshine that continues to attract new residents from across the country. While living costs—particularly housing and insurance—are higher than national averages, the combination of no state income tax, relatively affordable healthcare, and exceptional quality of life makes Saint Augustine a compelling option for many.

Whether you're retiring in Florida, relocating for work, or simply seeking a change of pace, St. Augustine FL provides a distinctive living experience unlike anywhere else in the Sunshine State.

Ready to explore St. Augustine real estate options? The Kim Devlin Team is your trusted guide to all things St. Augustine. With deep local knowledge and a commitment to personalized service, we're here to help you navigate every aspect of moving to St. Augustine Florida.

Looking for personalized guidance on living in St. Augustine FL? Contact the Kim Devlin Team, one of the best realtors in Saint Augustine for expert advice on neighborhoods, properties, and making your move to historic Saint Augustine as smooth as possible.