Florida is home to sunshine, beautiful beaches, and ample opportunities for education and work. Add in no state income tax, and it’s a no-brainer why so many people flock to Florida each year. To help out young people looking to settle into the Sunshine State, we’ve compiled a list of best places to live in Florida for young adults. We considered factors such as median income, cost of living, social opportunities, job opportunities, access to transportation, and quality of schools.
Unless otherwise noted, statistics come from the United States Census Bureau.
Boca Raton
Population: 99,009
County: Palm Beach Count
Median Household Income: $89,776
Median Home Value: $495,000
Top Employers: Boca Raton Regional Hospital, City of Boca Raton, Florida Atlantic University, IBM Corp., NCCI, Office Depot
The second-largest city in Palm Beach County, Boca Raton offers year-round community amenities, including five miles of beaches, 46 public parks, and more than 1,500 acres of recreational space. Young people and young families benefit from the vibrant art scene, excellent educational system, three universities, and abundant shopping opportunities.
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Delray Beach
Population: 67,030
County: Palm Beach County
Median Household Income: $69,804
Median Home Value: $320,300
Top Employers: AdultFriendFinder, Bidtellect, Delivery Dudes, Ocean Properties LTD., Palm Partners
Many young professionals and retirees call Delray Beach home. And, many who live here own their own homes. USA Today even named it the Most Fun Small Town in America. Residents enjoy big city amenities like fun shops, art galleries, a shuttle service, and a vibrant nightlife. Plus, a two-mile-long beach that ranked number 4 on U.S. News and World Reports list of Best Beaches in Florida for 2023.
Fort Lauderdale
Population: 183,146
County: Broward County
Median Household Income: $66,994
Median Home Value: $364,100
Top Employers: Broward County, Broward County Public Schools, Broward Health, Memorial Healthcare System, Nova Southeastern University
Although the cost of living here is higher than the average in the state, Fort Lauderdale is home to worthwhile recreational and job opportunities for its residents. By 2030, employment is expected to grow 6.9%. And by that same year, the city will add 13,000 new homes. Move here to enjoy 165 miles of waterways and canals, white sand beaches, and a vacation atmosphere.
Gainesville
Population: 145,214
County: Alachua County
Median Household Income: $40,937
Median Home Value: $182,400
Top Employers: University of Florida, Charles Perry Partners, Inc., CPAmerica, SantaFe HealthCare
Home to one of the top school districts in Florida as well as the University of Florida, Gainesville provides young adults and their kids with exceptional educational opportunities. Those who’ve already finished college will still appreciate the college-town atmosphere. Homes here cost 14 percent less than the Florida average, making the dream of homeownership a more attainable reality. Considering the median age of this town is just 25.7, young people will have no trouble connecting with their peers.
Miami Beach
Population: 80,017
County: Miami-Dade County
Median Household Income: $59,162
Median Home Value: $450,700
Top Employers: Boucher Brothers, City of Miami Beach, Fontainebleau Miami Beach, Global Crew Logistics, Nikki Beach, Startup Exemption
Miami Beach is a coastal resort city located on barrier islands between the Biscane Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. This town offers highly-rated public schools, one of Florida’s best transit systems, a vibrant nightlife, and lots of young professionals. Easily walk to where you need to go, whether you’re buying groceries or heading to the beach. With Miami just a 20-minute drive away, you’re also close to Miami International Airport, 50+ colleges, and potential employers.
Orlando
Population: 316,081
County: Orange County
Median Household Income: $58,968
Median Home Value: $283,700
Top Employers: AdventHealth, Orlando Health, Orlando International Airport, Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando
Orlando isn’t just home to Disney World. This city has a diverse population with a plethora of job opportunities. And of course, plenty of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and stores. Orlando also has highly-rated public schools—a plus if you’re moving with kids or planning to start a family.
Specific neighborhoods within Orlando that attract young professionals include Downtown, South Eola, North Quarter, and Lawsona/Fern Creek. Niche.com ranks Downtown Orlando as the second best city neighborhood in the country for young professionals to live in.
St. Petersburg
Population: 261,256
County: Pinellas County
Median Household Income: $64,375
Median Home Value: $242,100
Top Employers: Bayfront Health, Jabil, Raymond James Financial, HSN, Nepal, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital
St. Petersburg is an affordable city with attractive beaches, art museums, and lots of parks. Plenty of young professionals call this Pinellas County city home because of its urban suburban feel, nightlife, and diversity. Residents can easily access public transit and walk or bike to grocery stores, restaurants, and bars. A ferry ride or cruise across the bridge to Tampa make exploring or working nearby easy too.
Tallahassee
Population: 201,731
County: Leon County
Median Household Income: $49,077
Median Home Value: $223,400
Top Employers: FL Department of Revenue, Florida Department of Children and Families, Florida Department of Transportation, Florida State University, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare
Florida’s capital city, Tallahassee, is located in the Florida Panhandle region. Many college students, young professionals, and young families live here, resulting in a median age of just 26.5. The cost of living is affordable, making homeownership a more likely reality. Along with educational opportunities at Florida State University, Florida A&M,and others, Tallahassee also has a bustling nightlife, museums, and historic sites.
Tampa
Population: 398,173
County: Hillsborough County
Median Household Income: $59,893
Median Home Value: $277,700
Top Employers: Baycare Health, Hillsborough County School District, Publix Super Markets, State of Florida, United States Air Force
Tampa’s a great option for young adults who want an energetic big city with a relaxed beach lifestyle. There’s a strong job market, a low cost of living, and family-friendly amenities. Homeowner’s association communities are common here, so familarize yourself with HOA fees and perks. The median age here is 35.1 years old, so expect to find plenty of other young people.
West Palm Beach
Population: 120,932
County: Palm Beach County
Median Household Income: $56,549
Median Home Value: $275,700
Top Employers: Florida Atlantic University, NextEra Energy, Palm Beach County, Palm Beach County School District, Tenet Healthcare
West Palm Beach may be a tourist town, but it’s also a great place to live if you can keep up with the cost of living. The city has a lively downtown area, a number of museums, nature and wildlife preserves, and an outdoor mall. If you’re planning to earn your degree, you can choose between eleven different colleges and universities within the city. Palm Beach International Airport makes traveling for work or leisure a breeze.