10 Best Places to Live in Florida (Ranked by Quality of Life)
Discover the top 10 best places to live in Florida, where sunshine, stunning beaches, and unbeatable quality of life come together to create the perfect place to call home!
- Alyana Aguja
- 3 min read
Florida boasts some of the most sought-after locations to live, with a combination of lively city living, picturesque coastal communities, and successful communities with world-class amenities. With the cultural diversity of Sarasota, the jobs market of Tampa, and the history of St. Augustine, every city has its own special features. Whether you’re looking for sun-kissed beaches, great schools, or a relaxed lifestyle, these top 10 places highlight the best of what the Sunshine State has to offer!
1. Naples
Image from Naples Boat Tour
Naples is always among the healthiest and happiest cities in America due to its upscale amenities, low crime, and breathtaking Gulf Coast beaches. The city has great healthcare, a rich arts community, and championship golf courses. Although it is more expensive, the quality of life and sunsets are worth every cent.
2. Sarasota
Image from www.visitsarasota.com
With its blend of cultural sophistication and beach scenery, Sarasota blends city living and beach life admirably. Home to the highly rated Ringling Museum, fine healthcare system, and vibrant downtown with restaurants and nightlife, this city also beckons retirees and young professionals through its welcoming neighborhoods and waterfront scenes.
3. St. Augustine
Image from St. Francis Inn
Being the oldest U.S. city, St. Augustine is immersed in history with a good balance of old-world charm and latest conveniences. Its cobblestone roads, historic landmarks, and white, sandy beaches ensure it’s an attractive residence area. Its very strong community ethos and best-of-class schools just make it perfect for families as well.
4. Tampa
Image from Wikipedia
Tampa is a thriving city with a booming economy, great food, and easy proximity to some of Florida’s top beaches. It has a low cost of living compared to other state metropolises, along with world-class schools and healthcare. Sports lovers and nature lovers alike flourish in this sunny, year-round lively city.
5. Orlando
Image from KAYAK
Aside from its renowned theme parks, Orlando is a bustling tech and healthcare center with great schools and diverse communities. The city is filled with entertainment, ranging from world-class restaurants to a vibrant nightlife. Affordable housing, combined with a robust job market, makes it an ideal location for young professionals and families.
6. Melbourne
Image from www.melbourneflorida.org
Situated on Florida’s Space Coast, Melbourne boasts a combination of high-tech careers and relaxed beach living. With the Kennedy Space Center and expanding aerospace sector, it’s a great spot for engineers and scientists. Top schools, low crime, and lovely natural preserves round out the city.
7. Fort Myers
Image from Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce
Renowned for its beautiful Gulf Coast beaches and robust economy, Fort Myers is amongst the state’s fastest-growing cities. It boasts a lively downtown, low housing costs, and an excellent school system. A combination of young professionals, retirees, and families makes for a dynamic and friendly community.
8. Gainesville
Image from Wikipedia
Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville is a college town with a laid-back, nature-rich lifestyle. The city has affordable housing, great healthcare, and a solid job market in education and healthcare. With plenty of parks, springs, and cultural events, it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s best-kept secret.
9. Coral Gables
Image from Wikipedia
Just north of Miami, Coral Gables is famous for Mediterranean-style architecture, green landscapes, and a high-end lifestyle. It boasts highly rated schools, a busy business district, and a vintage Miracle Mile shopping district. Although housing costs are expensive, walkability, security, and amenities make it one of the top places to live in Florida.
10. Winter Park
Image from Tripadvisor
Situated just outside of Orlando, Winter Park is a picturesque city famous for its lined streets, boutique stores, and thriving arts community. The city is inhabited by Rollins College, great schools, and a sense of community. Its lovely lakes, museums, and parks are ideal for anyone looking for an excellent quality of life.