The 12 Best Small Towns in Florida To Soak Up the Sun

The Sunshine State is a popular destination — and not just for retirees. It’s home to some of the fastest-growing metro areas in the country and has beautiful weather, gorgeous beaches, and no state income tax. But bustling cities aren’t the only places new residents are flocking to. With fewer people, more green space, and definitely less traffic, the best small towns in Florida are attracting young professionals and retirees alike in search of a slower pace and a more peaceful lifestyle.

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Spanning close to 70,000 square miles and ranking 22nd in area among all of the 50 states, you have a wide variety of options for finding the right place to live. While some larger cities like Tampa, Miami, and Orlando are great places to settle down, there are plenty of small towns in Florida that have their own unique advantages, too.

 

So if you’re looking to settle in a southern suburb, where are the best small towns in Florida to live? Let’s take a look. 

Big Florida Cities vs. Small Towns in Florida 

Before we begin, let’s examine the differences between Florida city and small-town living.

Big cities attract large populations for a reason! Advantages of living in a large city include more job opportunities, a variety of dining options, better access to public transportation, and most everything is conveniently located a short drive away.

While the big city life may offer certain benefits that seem irresistible, you must consider a higher cost of living, more people, and more noise. And that can get old quick.

What small towns in Florida lack in population numbers and square mileage, they make up for in a sense of peace, quiet, and comfort that you may not be able to find in a larger city. 

Here are some reasons why you should consider a small-town life when living in Florida:

• Real estate in small Florida towns is a lot cheaper than in the major cities — which means more opportunities to become a homeowner.
• Without towering skyscrapers, traffic, and over-development of Florida’s larger cities, the best small towns in Florida bring you closer to nature with more parks, trails, rivers, and lakes.  
• Many small towns in Florida offer a strong sense of community with neighbors.
• Whether in a big city or a small town, beaches in Florida are just an hour or two away (at most)!

Small Towns in Florida — FAQs

Q: What is the best small town in Florida to live in?
A: That depends on what you mean by “best.” Are you looking to live on the beach? Vero Beach and Pompano Beach are calling your name. Want some of that Old Florida, Southern charm? Check out Micanopy. Or do you want a small-town feel that’s close to a major urban area? Look for Odessa. The possibilities are plentiful in the Sunshine State.

Q: Are there any quaint towns in Florida?
A: While not talked about as frequently as the booming urban areas, the best small towns in Florida are the very definition of quaint. Take Frostproof, for example. Or Lake Kathryn!

Q: What is the prettiest town in Florida?
A: Boca Grande is thought of as one of the prettiest towns in Florida, thanks to its charming downtown area, white-sand beaches, and world-class tarpon fishing. But we’re talking about Florida here. What town isn’t pretty? 

Q: What city in Florida has the lowest population?
A: Marineland takes the crown when it comes to small towns in Florida — home to a whopping nine people. When it comes to some of the best small towns in Florida to live, though, Micanopy has the lowest population on our list: 654 Floridians call this sweet small town home. 

Q: What is the cheapest small town to live in Florida?
A: Frostproof, Micanopy, and Glencoe are some of the most affordable of the best small towns in Florida. Frostproof is the cheapest with a cost of living 8.4 percent below the U.S. average and 11.2 percent below the Florida average. 

12 Best Small Towns in Florida

Now that you’re a bit more familiar with the advantages of living a small-town lifestyle in Florida, check out the best small towns you can find, whether you are moving within the state or relocating from afar. Populations of these towns range from about 5,000 to 17,000, with Mount Dora topping the list at just under 17,000. 

Micanopy was founded in 1821, making it one of the oldest small towns in Florida.

1. Micanopy

• Average rent (all sizes): $1,300
• Average home value: $332,000
• Great for: Old Florida life, antiquing, mossy oaks

When you’re searching “small towns Florida,” Micanopy is likely to pop up. The town of Micanopy, which has just over 600 residents, is located in the swamps of North Central Florida, near the college town of Gainesville. Founded in 1821, Micanopy is one of the oldest municipalities — and one of the best small towns — in Florida to live.

Old Spanish moss-covered oak trees and narrow dirt roads are some of the highlights of this area. Micanopy is also known for its annual fall festival and charming antique stores. In the nearby Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, a research district that’s part of the University of Florida, you can spot wild horses and bison roaming around the area! And you can’t go to Micanopy and skip a trip to the Pearl Country Store & Barbecue — no joke: Get the pecan pie. 

2. Vero Beach

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,400
• Average home value: $373,600
• Great for: Restaurants, divers, raising a family, activities, flora 

Located on Florida's Treasure Coast, the town of Vero Beach has been referred to as the best small town in the state in previous years. And due to the strict zoning regulations, it has been able maintain its lovely charm even through rapid growth. Vero Beach is one of the towns where you can walk miles along the coastline without seeing another soul.

The area around the reefs near the town is known for its shipwrecks, which metal detector-wielding treasure hunters have been known to find. And there are plenty of sunken ships off the coast of this beach town that have left their mark.

There are a variety of activities that you can do in the town of Vero Beach, as well, such as visiting the Lion Country Safari. For a more tranquil afternoon, visit the McKee Botanical Garden. And Vero Beach has a transitional climate, which means the area grows a variety of vibrant flora that can’t be missed! There’s also been a resurgence in the area's restaurants, with the farm-to-table movement finally making its way here — try Michael’s on 7th for some delish dishes.

3. Glencoe

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,500
• Median home list price: $390,000
• Great for: Easy beach access, day trips to Orlando and Jacksonville

Glencoe is a small Florida town near Orlando, about 90 miles from Jacksonville. This community is great for water recreation and a quick drive to the ocean, making it one of the best locations in Florida to live for people who want to enjoy the beach life.

As for dining, you can’t beat the innovative cuisine and cozy setting of Valor. And in other news, the crime rate in Glencoe is 77 percent lower than the national average. It's also important to note that the unemployment rates are just a little above 5 percent, below the national average of 6 percent.

Lovers of birds, seafood, and local businesses should flock to Sanibel, one of the most charming, tranquil small towns in Florida. 

4. Sanibel

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $3,500
• Average home value: $938,400
• Great for: Laid-back atmosphere, local restaurants, wildlife, art

Sanibel Island is easily one of the best small towns in Florida to live in. Sanibel is a small barrier island between the mainland and the Gulf of Mexico in Southwest Florida. The area is known for its beautiful white sand beaches and is a great place for birdwatchers, particularly at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

The town of Sanibel is also known for its laid-back and tranquil atmosphere. Part of that charm is that there are no chain businesses on the island; the iconic Dairy Queen, grandfathered in when Sanibel passed a rule forbidding national chains, finally closed its doors last year after 52 years — a victim of Hurricane Ian. Today, everything is local. There are seafood restaurants, of course, but for a special treat, locals love the French bistro, Bleu Rendez-Vous. For daytime fun, shoppers need to check out Periwinkle Place, and nature lovers should head to Lighthouse Beach Park at the tip of the island for stunning scenery and, true to its name, a historic lighthouse built in 1884. 

5. Nokomis

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,000
• Average home value: $559,900
• Great for: Families, idyllic seashore with low crowds
  

If you want to stay on the mainland but keep the beautiful beach in easy reach, look no further than Nokomis, just south of the Sarasota area. With a population of about 3,500, it’s easy to live a calm, relaxing life without losing access to city amenities. 

Homes won’t run you as much as they would on a barrier island, but that doesn’t make the quality of life here any less. Nokomis’ beaches are some of the nicest in the state. And as for culture and recreation, get a taste of real Florida at Nokomo’s Sunset Hut, which also has live music a few times a week.

6. St. George Island

• Average rent (one-bedroom): N/A
• Median home list price: $1.49M
• Great for: Million-dollar homes, unspoiled barrier islands, privacy

Like Sanibel, St. George Island has strict zoning laws that forbid high rises and chain stores. The only apartments are vacation rentals. But with those regulations comes a tranquil and peaceful beach life that makes this island one of the best small towns in Florida. Homes here can run into the millions, though — if they even come on the market.

Still, living on the barrier island of St. George is like a permanent vacation. Because of its low-density and sustainable building codes, there’s tons of space, including at the Dr. Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park. And only one causeway goes on and off the island, which is a nice change from congestion you find in busier metro areas. Besides Harry A’s Restaurant — a longtime Old Florida-style destination for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and live entertainment on weekends — there’s not a lot of dining. But nearby Apalachicola is full of shops and restaurants, many of which feature oysters right off the boat — literally. 

Islamorada is one of the best small towns in Florida for fishing fanatics. In fact, it’s the self-proclaimed sport fishing capital of the world.

7. Islamorada

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $2,700
• Average home value: $1.28M
• Great for: Tropical vibes, saltwater fishing, living where you vacation

Islamorada is way down in the Florida Keys, floating happily in the Straits of Florida, the body of water connecting the Gulf of Mexico with the Atlantic Ocean. Most vacationers drive right through this key as they travel to Key West, not realizing they’re in one of the best small towns in Florida. But this beach village is definitely worth a stop, if not a full-on move.

The island is also the self-proclaimed sport fishing capital of the world. So if you’re an avid angler, here’s your next home. If you’re also into eating fish and other seafood, the Green Turtle Inn is your new favorite restaurant. It’s been around since 1947 for a reason. 

8. Lake Kathryn

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,650
• Median home sale price: $183,000
• Great for: Wide-open spaces, big home lots, lake life

If you’re looking for “The Real Florida,” as the state parks call it, you’ll find it in Lake Kathryn. Located in Central Florida near DeLand and bordered by the Ocala National Forest, Lake Kathryn puts the “small” in “small town” with a population under 1,000. 

You’ll be surrounded by Florida wilderness here, with the opportunity to take in all the fresh air you might want. Plus, the cost of living in Lake Kathryn is a smidge lower than in the rest of the state, so your dollar will go a bit further. Dining is more affordable here, too — particularly at one of the area’s most beloved local haunts, Griffis Cafe. This tiny country diner defines “comfort food.” Don't miss it.

9. Odessa

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,650
• Average home value: $692,500
• Great for: Families, small-town feel in a major metro, ranching

Odessa has grown over the past two decades from a rural area of horse farms into a thriving Tampa suburb. There are lots of lakes in this region, so even though the Gulf of Mexico is 30 minutes away, you can still get your fill of boating, fishing, and swimming — just watch out for gators. 

Homes in Odessa are more affordable than in Tampa, but if you work downtown or in St. Petersburg, you’ll have quite a commute: 45 minutes on a light traffic day. But there are benefits that may balance out the potential negatives. A big plus of living in Odessa, for instance, is Starkey Ranch, a 2,400-acre master-planned community complete with a town square, parks, and preserves, plus a gem of a country store, Starkey Market.

10. Mount Dora

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,575
• Average home value: $390,600
• Great for: Retirees, festivals, art, museums 

Mount Dora is one of the most charming small cities in Florida, known for its quaint downtown district that’s a highlight of the central part of the Sunshine State. You’ll find a charming blend of dining and shopping along its historic streets. Cafes and restaurants include Gianni’s Italiano, a delicious destination — and whatever you have for your entree, do not skip the cannoli for dessert. Festivals are a hallmark of Mount Dora, drawing thousands of visitors every year. The annual Mount Dora Arts Festival alone attracts close to 200,000 people.

Its slow pace, serene lakes, and lush parks make Mount Dora a lovely escape into nature. Lake Dora invites boating, fishing, and beautiful sunset views, and parks include Gilbert and Palm Island, where visitors enjoy picnics, hiking, and wildlife watching.   

11. Frostproof

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $950
• Average home value: $211,400
• Great for: Retirees, families, easy access to Orlando’s theme parks

Frostproof is a citrus-growing haven in Central Florida. Ironically enough, the town was almost lost when a deep freeze hit the area in the late 1800s, just a few years after it was founded. Nowadays, it’s a perfect spot for citrus growers — and one of the best small towns in Florida to live for young families and retirees.

Located along The Ridge Scenic Highway between Lake Clinch and Reedy Lake, Frostproof makes you feel like you’re stepping back in time. The downtown district exudes small-town charm, with cafes and shops lining its streets. Stop in the Frostproof Historical Museum for an exploration of the area’s interesting past. Homes here are also affordable, which attracts people just starting out and those enjoying their golden years. And at just an hour-and-a-half away from Tampa and Orlando, it’s easy for family and friends from the city to come to visit. 

12. Cedar Key

• Average rent (one-bedroom): N/A
• Median home sale price: $364,600
• Great for: History, wildlife, small-town feel, restaurants

Cedar Key, full-time home to only about 750 people, is an old-fashioned island destination in the Gulf of Mexico. Part of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge about two hours north of Tampa, the island was hit hard by multiple hurricanes in the past two years. But those 750 residents and shop owners are determined to stay.

This area is known for its low-key atmosphere and great local seafood. Try Steamers Clam Bar & Grill — you won’t be sorry. 

Is small-town Florida calling your name? PODS can help you move to one of these lovely small towns in Florida.

PODS Can Help You Move to Your Favorite Small Florida Town  

Once you have found your small-town Florida dream home, let PODS help with the next steps. A portable storage container will arrive — right in your driveway. And when you’ve packed and loaded it, PODS will pick it up and transport it to your new home. Each move includes a month's storage, so you can easily unpack your things without feeling rushed!

Editor’s note: Average rent prices were obtained from RentCafe and Zumper; average home values were obtained from Zillow; and median home sale prices were obtained from Redfin. For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.