Finding the perfect rental home in Florida is more important than ever in 2024, as the state’s real estate market continues to evolve.
With its unique blend of bustling urban centers, picturesque coastal towns, and peaceful suburban neighborhoods, Florida offers a diverse range of rental options to suit every lifestyle and budget.
Best Places to Rent in Florida show
In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best places to rent in Florida this year, highlighting areas that stand out for their amenities, quality of life, and economic opportunities.
From the dynamic atmosphere of Jacksonville to the serene beaches of Bradenton, we’ll provide an in-depth look at what makes each location special and why it might be the ideal place for you to call home.
Let’s explore these top rental destinations, offering valuable insights to help you make an informed decision and find a place that enhances your living experience in the Sunshine State.
1. Jacksonville
Jacksonville, the largest city by area in the contiguous United States, offers a unique blend of urban living, suburban comfort, and beachside relaxation.
Its diverse neighborhoods and vibrant culture make it one of the top places to rent in Florida for 2024.
This city is known for its robust job market, driven by industries such as finance, healthcare, logistics, and technology.
The city’s economic growth, combined with its relatively affordable cost of living, makes it an attractive destination for renters looking for both career opportunities and a high quality of life.
Neighborhoods to Consider
- Riverside:
- Character: Historic, trendy, and vibrant.
- Amenities: Eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Proximity to parks and the St. Johns River.
- Rental Costs: Generally moderate, with a mix of historic homes and modern apartments.
- San Marco:
- Character: Upscale and artsy, with a strong community feel.
- Amenities: Boutique shopping, fine dining, and cultural landmarks such as Theatre Jacksonville.
- Rental Costs: Higher-end, reflecting the area’s desirability and amenities.
- Southside:
- Character: Suburban, family-friendly, and business-centric.
- Amenities: Large shopping centers, office parks, and recreational facilities.
- Rental Costs: Varies widely, with options ranging from affordable apartments to luxury homes.
Average Rental Costs
Rental prices in Jacksonville can vary significantly based on the neighborhood and type of housing. Here is a general overview:
- Apartments: Typically range from $1,000 to $2,500 per month.
- Houses: Range from $1,500 to over $3,000 per month depending on size and location.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Jacksonville offers a variety of lifestyle benefits, including:
- Beaches: Miles of beautiful beaches such as Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach.
- Parks: Extensive park systems like Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, offering outdoor activities.
- Culture: A thriving arts scene with museums, theaters, and live music venues.
- Education: Home to several well-regarded schools and universities, including the University of North Florida.
2. Orlando
Orlando, known globally for its world-class theme parks and entertainment, is also a thriving city with diverse neighborhoods and robust economic opportunities.
This makes it one of the top places to rent in Florida for 2024.
This place is not just a tourist destination; it’s a vibrant city with a strong job market, particularly in technology, hospitality, and healthcare.
The city’s growth and development over the years have made it an attractive place for renters seeking both career opportunities and a dynamic living environment.
Neighborhoods to Consider
- Lake Nona:
- Character: Modern, innovative, and family-friendly.
- Amenities: State-of-the-art medical facilities, parks, and a variety of dining and shopping options.
- Rental Costs: Higher-end, with many new developments and luxury apartments.
- Winter Park:
- Character: Charming, historic, and upscale.
- Amenities: Boutique shops, fine dining, Rollins College, and beautiful parks like Mead Botanical Garden.
- Rental Costs: Premium, reflecting its desirability and excellent amenities.
- Baldwin Park:
- Character: Planned community, walkable, and scenic.
- Amenities: Lakes, trails, a mix of retail and residential spaces, and a strong sense of community.
- Rental Costs: Mid to high range, with a mix of apartments, townhomes, and single-family houses.
Average Rental Costs
Orlando offers a range of rental prices depending on the neighborhood and type of housing. Here’s a general overview:
- Apartments: Typically range from $1,200 to $2,800 per month.
- Houses: Range from $1,500 to over $3,500 per month depending on size and location.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Orlando provides a variety of lifestyle benefits, including:
- Entertainment: Proximity to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, offering year-round entertainment.
- Parks and Recreation: Numerous parks, lakes, and outdoor activities, such as the Orlando Urban Trail and Lake Eola Park.
- Cultural Attractions: A vibrant arts scene with the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, museums, and live music venues.
- Education: Home to reputable schools and universities, including the University of Central Florida (UCF), one of the largest universities in the nation.
3. Tampa
Tampa is a dynamic city known for its blend of urban living, cultural experiences, and proximity to beautiful Gulf Coast beaches. With its thriving economy and diverse neighborhoods, Tampa is one of the top places to rent in Florida for 2024.
The town boasts a strong job market driven by industries such as finance, healthcare, and technology.
Its growth in recent years has attracted a diverse population, making it a vibrant and exciting place to live. The city’s relatively affordable cost of living, compared to other major cities, adds to its appeal.
Neighborhoods to Consider
- Hyde Park:
- Character: Historic, upscale, and vibrant.
- Amenities: Boutique shopping, trendy restaurants, and Hyde Park Village.
- Rental Costs: Generally higher-end, reflecting the neighborhood’s desirability and amenities.
- Ybor City:
- Character: Historic, eclectic, and culturally rich.
- Amenities: Nightlife, unique dining experiences, and historic sites.
- Rental Costs: Moderate, with a mix of historic buildings and modern apartments.
- Westchase:
- Character: Suburban, family-friendly, and well-planned.
- Amenities: Parks, golf courses, top-rated schools, and a strong community feel.
- Rental Costs: Mid to high range, with options for both single-family homes and apartments.
Average Rental Costs
Tampa’s rental prices vary significantly based on the neighborhood and type of housing. Here is a general overview:
- Apartments: Typically range from $1,200 to $2,500 per month.
- Houses: Range from $1,800 to over $3,500 per month depending on size and location.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Tampa offers a variety of lifestyle benefits, including:
- Beaches: Close proximity to Clearwater Beach, St. Pete Beach, and other Gulf Coast destinations.
- Culture: A vibrant arts scene with the Tampa Museum of Art, Straz Center for the Performing Arts, and historic theaters.
- Sports and Recreation: Home to professional sports teams like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL), Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL), and Tampa Bay Rays (MLB), as well as numerous parks and outdoor activities.
- Education: Reputable schools and universities, including the University of South Florida (USF) and the University of Tampa.
4. Bradenton
Bradenton, located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, offers a blend of beautiful beaches, vibrant cultural scenes, and suburban comfort.
Its appealing lifestyle and growing job market make it one of the top places to rent in Florida for 2024.
It is known for its relaxed coastal living, thriving arts community, and excellent outdoor activities.
The city’s economy is diverse, with strengths in healthcare, education, and tourism. The relatively affordable cost of living and family-friendly environment add to Bradenton’s attractiveness for renters.
Neighborhoods to Consider
- Lakewood Ranch:
- Character: Master-planned, upscale, and community-oriented.
- Amenities: Golf courses, parks, shopping centers, and highly rated schools.
- Rental Costs: Higher-end, with a variety of modern apartments and single-family homes.
- Palma Sola:
- Character: Coastal, peaceful, and scenic.
- Amenities: Proximity to Palma Sola Bay, parks, and marinas.
- Rental Costs: Moderate to high, depending on proximity to the water and amenities.
- West Bradenton:
- Character: Suburban, diverse, and convenient.
- Amenities: Shopping, dining, good schools, and parks like G.T. Bray Park.
- Rental Costs: Mid-range, offering a mix of apartments and single-family homes.
Average Rental Costs
Rental prices in Bradenton vary based on the neighborhood and type of housing. Here is a general overview:
- Apartments: Typically range from $1,200 to $2,500 per month.
- Houses: Range from $1,800 to over $3,000 per month depending on size and location.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Bradenton provides a variety of lifestyle benefits, including:
- Beaches: Close proximity to Anna Maria Island, Bradenton Beach, and other Gulf Coast beaches.
- Outdoor Activities: Abundant parks, boating, fishing, and golf courses.
- Culture: A thriving arts scene with the Village of the Arts, museums, and performing arts venues.
- Education: Home to well-regarded schools and colleges, such as the State College of Florida and Manatee Technical College.
5. Fort Walton Beach
Fort Walton Beach, located in the Florida Panhandle, is a charming coastal city known for its relaxed atmosphere and scenic beauty.
Its appeal as a rental destination in 2024 lies in its affordable living, military community presence, and access to stunning beaches and outdoor activities.
The city offers a slower pace of life compared to Florida’s larger cities, making it ideal for those seeking a more laid-back lifestyle.
The city’s economy is significantly supported by the nearby Eglin Air Force Base, which provides numerous job opportunities.
Additionally, the area’s natural beauty and recreational options make it an attractive place to live.
Neighborhoods to Consider
- Beal Parkway:
- Character: Convenient, residential, and family-friendly.
- Amenities: Close to shopping centers, schools, and parks.
- Rental Costs: Generally moderate, offering a mix of apartments and single-family homes.
- Mary Esther:
- Character: Suburban, quiet, and community-oriented.
- Amenities: Proximity to Hurlburt Field, local shops, and dining.
- Rental Costs: Moderate to high, with a range of housing options from apartments to larger homes.
- Ocean City:
- Character: Coastal, relaxed, and scenic.
- Amenities: Access to beaches, parks, and recreational facilities.
- Rental Costs: Moderate, with various options including beachfront properties and residential homes.
Average Rental Costs
Rental prices in Fort Walton Beach are quite reasonable, especially compared to larger cities in Florida. Here is a general overview:
- Apartments: Typically range from $1,000 to $2,200 per month.
- Houses: Range from $1,500 to over $3,000 per month depending on size and location.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Fort Walton Beach provides a variety of lifestyle benefits, including:
- Beaches: Stunning white-sand beaches like Okaloosa Island and nearby Destin beaches.
- Outdoor Activities: Abundant opportunities for fishing, boating, water sports, and golfing.
- Military Community: Strong support and facilities for military families, given the proximity to Eglin Air Force Base and Hurlburt Field.
- Education: Home to well-regarded schools and close to Northwest Florida State College.
Ocala
Ocala, located in Central Florida, is known for its scenic beauty, equestrian culture, and affordable living.
It offers a relaxed, small-town atmosphere while providing access to various amenities and outdoor activities, making it an attractive rental destination in 2024.
This small town is celebrated for its picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills and horse farms.
The city’s economy is diverse, with strengths in healthcare, education, and agriculture. Its affordability and quality of life make it an appealing choice for renters looking for a balance between rural charm and modern conveniences.
Neighborhoods to Consider
- Silver Springs Shores:
- Character: Family-friendly, suburban, and peaceful.
- Amenities: Close to Silver Springs State Park, shopping centers, and schools.
- Rental Costs: Generally affordable, with a mix of single-family homes and apartments.
- Downtown Ocala:
- Character: Historic, vibrant, and culturally rich.
- Amenities: Restaurants, shops, art galleries, and entertainment venues.
- Rental Costs: Moderate, with options ranging from historic homes to modern apartments.
- Southwest Ocala:
- Character: Growing, suburban, and community-oriented.
- Amenities: Parks, schools, and new residential developments.
- Rental Costs: Mid-range, with many new constructions and planned communities.
Average Rental Costs
Rental prices in Ocala are quite reasonable compared to other parts of Florida. Here is a general overview:
- Apartments: Typically range from $900 to $1,800 per month.
- Houses: Range from $1,200 to over $2,500 per month depending on size and location.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Ocala offers a variety of lifestyle benefits, including:
- Equestrian Culture: Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” with numerous horse farms, riding trails, and equestrian events.
- Outdoor Activities: Access to natural attractions like Silver Springs State Park, Ocala National Forest, and numerous hiking and biking trails.
- Cultural Scene: A growing arts and culture scene with theaters, museums, and local festivals.
- Education: Home to reputable schools and higher education institutions like the College of Central Florida.
