15 Best Small Towns In Florida

People usually relate Florida to its big cities, such as Miami and Orlando, but this Sunshine State has its own charm within the small towns. Picturesque towns offer the perfect blend of coastal beauty, rich history, and tight-knit communities, making them some of the best places to live in Florida. Whether you’re searching for a quiet place to retire or a charming community in which to raise your family, this guide to the best small towns in Florida will walk you through finding your perfect match.

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Why Small Towns in Florida Are Becoming Popular

Small towns in Florida are gaining popularity for their unique combination of laid-back living and modern conveniences. As people increasingly seek out affordable small towns in Florida for lower living costs, safety, and a slower pace of life, the spotlight is shifting from the busy metropolises to these charming locales. Many of these towns offer the same stunning beaches, lush greenery, and sunny climate without the traffic and crowds of big cities.

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Why Choose a Small Town in Florida for Better Living?

Relocate to a small town in Florida and get away from it all while having easy access to city amenities. Overall, the best small towns around Orlando and elsewhere have a tendency to be much safer, more affordable, and the quality of life possibly unsurpassed by larger cities. With a lower cost of living, friendly neighborhoods, and a greater sense of community, they are ideal for families, retirees, and young professionals.

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How to choose best neighborhoods

When choosing the best small towns in Florida, many factors have to be considered, which include:

• Safety: It should be a safe small town with low crime rates and community policing.
• Cost of Living: Affordable housing, and day-to-day living cost while offering the quality lifestyle needed.
• Medical Care: The town needs to have a hospital or health facility since the communities usually contain retired or soon-to-be-retired people.

• Weather: Decide what kind of town you like to live in regarding climate, from temperate in the north to warm and coastal in the south.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Research into all other creature comforts of the town, such as parks, restaurants, and shopping, with easy access to outdoor activities.

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The 15 Best Small Towns in Florida

1. Mount Dora

• Overview: Quaint downtown with antique shops and annual festivals make this little town a charmer about the size of Orlando.
• Safety: Generally considered one of the safer small towns in Florida, as it enjoys low crime rates.
• Cost of Living: Relatively inexpensive compared to nearby bigger cities like Orlando.
• Healthcare: There are several big hospitals and medical centers within a short radius of Orlando.
• Climate: Generally warm all year long, with mild winters.
• Amenities and Lifestyle: Art galleries, festivals, and outdoor activities, including boating on Lake Dora.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Small-town charm with easy access to amenities in Orlando.

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2. Winter Park

• Overview: A nice and beautiful city with parks, museums, and historic homes on the side of Orlando.
• Safety: Winter Park is considered very safe and suitable for families.
• Cost of Living: A little high owing to the proximity to Orlando but again great value for money because of the lifestyle.
• Healthcare: Excellent health care facilities like AdventHealth Winter Park.
• Climate: Generally warm and pleasant with mild winters.
• Amenities and Lifestyle: Upscale dining, shopping, and cultural activities such as the Morse Museum of American Art.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: A perfect place for those with taste who dream about a hearty cultural life at the doorstep of Orlando.

3. Fernandina Beach

• Overview: This is a historic town situated on Amelia Island and boasts of Victorian architecture and pristine beaches.
• Safety: It has been among the top safest small towns in northern Florida.
• Cost of Living: Moderate, with highly-priced beachfront properties.
• Healthcare: It has good access to the Baptist Medical Center Nassau for full services.
• Climate: Warm, breezy, mild winter features typical of coastal towns.
• Amenities/Lifestyle: Outdoor living and entertainment include fishing, boating, and golf; a vibrant arts community.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Ideal for anyone seeking beachside charm with historic appeal.

4. Dunedin

• Overview: This is a coastal town with heavy Scottish heritage and boasts various festivals along with abundant parks.
• Safety: It is considered one of the safest small towns in Florida; hence, it’s a perfect destination for families and retirees.
• Cost of Living: The living cost is medium since the houses are cheap and other living facilities at an affordable price.
• Healthcare: There are several health centers within proximity to the area such as the Mease Dunedin Hospital.
• Climate: It normally features the normal climatic characteristics like those of the coastal Florida towns, which is warm and humid.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Outdoor lifestyle with hiking and kayaking available. Breweries and quaint downtown area.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Dunedin really does bring the best of both worlds together in nature, combined with cultural activities, near the Gulf Coast.

5. Apalachicola

• Overview: It is a historical fishing village with oysters famous throughout the state, and it also features a really calm waterfront.
• Safety: It has low crime rates, and neighbors are very helpful since everybody knows each other.
• Cost of Living: It is relatively not high when compared to other coastal towns.
• Healthcare: It has limited health facilities in this town, though larger ones can be accessed a little further away.
• Climate: It is warm and humid throughout the year, while winters are also mild.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Tranquil life, seafood, history, and outdoor activities are really in focus.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Ideal for those seeking a quiet beachfront retreat with a decent sense of community.

6. St. Augustine

• Overview: Oldest city in the nation, historical, museums, and majorly Spanish architecture.
• Safety: Considered a generally safe town, residential areas most of all.
• Cost of Living: It is moderately affordable, though historic homes and properties nearest to water do have a higher price.
• Healthcare: There is also access to multiple centers such as Flagler Hospital for medical purposes.
• Climate: Warm all year, cooling by ocean breezes.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Perfect for historians, full of museums, historical tours, and outdoor activities.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Rich history paired with progressive amenities creates a very unique living experience.

7. Gulfport

• Overview: The funky, artsy town on the Gulf Coast has an active community of artists and creatives.
• Safety: Recognized for safety and a friendly atmosphere.
• Cost of Living: Affordable housing and living costs.
• Healthcare: In close proximity to higher ranked hospitals in St. Petersburg and Tampa.
• Climate: Warm and coastal, with sunny weather throughout the year.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Gulfport is famous for its art walks, festivals, and live music scene.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: The place is ideal for eclectic, artsy vibe, and affordable living.

8. Seaside

• Overview: A master-planned community with picturesque homes and idyllic beaches that border this town.
• Safety: One of the safest towns in Florida, and it is similar to a close-knit community.
• Cost of Living: High price because of its beachfront location and highly desirable property.
• Healthcare: Access to moderate health services in Panama City.
• Climate: Warm and breezy overall, mild winters.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: For those that love beach living with a feel for design and community.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Seaside offers luxury, beach-side living in one of the most aesthetically master-planned towns in Florida.

9. Tarpon Springs

• Overview: In a league of its own, Tarpon Springs is a one-of-a-kind coastal town with rich Greek history and sponge docks.
• Safety: A very safe town with a tight community.
• Cost of Living: More affordable, with reasonable housing compared to other coastal towns.
• Healthcare: Several options are available in town and nearby.
• Climate: The subtropical climate is warm and humid, like much of the Gulf Coast.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Rich in cultural experiences, with Greek restaurants, shops, and festivals abound.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Perfect for those with a taste for culture and coast on a budget.

10. DeLand

• Overview: Quaint, historic town situated between Orlando and Daytona Beach.
• Safety: Considered to be one of the safest small towns around Orlando.
• Cost of Living: Reasonable; low cost of housing and cost of living.
• Healthcare: Plenty of local clinics and nearby hospitals.
• Climate: Warm with a slight inland breeze.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Historic downtown full of local shops and events.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Great option for the quiet, historic town that does not need to go without easy access to larger cities.

11. Cedar Key

• Overview: A very remote island town that is known for its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere.
• Safety: It is one of the safest places to live since crimes are very negligible.
• Cost of Living: Pretty affordable with lower property prices because of the remote location.
• Healthcare: Limited but available in nearby towns.
• Climate: Warm and coastal, with a tropical feel.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Great for nature lovers, offering kayaking, fishing, and bird-watching.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Ideal for those seeking peace, nature, and coastal living.

12. Vero Beach

• Overview: A charming beach town known for its quiet neighborhoods and upscale amenities.
• Safety: A very safe town with low crime rates.
• Cost of Living: Slightly higher, due to its prime beachfront properties.
• Healthcare: Good, with several medical centers in the vicinity.
• Weather: Warm, breezy, pleasant winters
• Activities and Amenities: Beaches, nature preserves, golf courses, ideal for retirees or families
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Great coastal living without sacrificing safety and laid-back lifestyle.

13. Blountstown

• Overview: It’s a small rural town in the Florida Panhandle that’s proud of its agricultural heritage.
• Safety: It’s very safe, especially because this community is close-knit.
• Cost of Living: Very inexpensive, low cost of housing.
• Healthcare: Limited, major facilities in neighboring towns
• Climate: Hot, but slightly mild being inland
• Lifestyle and Amenities: If one appreciates farming, nature, and the country life.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Perfect for those who look to live a rural lifestyle in northern Florida.

14. New Smyrna Beach

• Overview: Beach town known for wonderful beaches and relaxed style of living.
• Safety: It is considered safe, especially in the residential areas.
• Cost of Living: Prices are reasonable; housing is affordable.
• Healthcare: There is adequate access to healthcare through local hospitals and clinics.
• Climate: It is a warm and coastal place-very tropical.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: Surrounded by beaches, very appealing for those who love the beach and enjoy the water activities like surfing and fishing.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: Micanopy has this quintessential feeling that you want from a small beach town in Florida.

15. Micanopy

• Overview: Charming historic town popular for its antique stores and proximity to Gainesville.
• Safety: Very safe, quiet little town.
• Cost of Living: Affordable, low property and cost of living prices.
• Healthcare: The best medical facilities are found in Gainesville, which is close by.
• Climate: Hot, although it is often considerably milder inland.
• Lifestyle and Amenities: History buffs and those looking for a more leisurely pace.
• Why It’s a Top Pick: For those looking for a quiet, historic town with proximity to larger cities.

Neighborhood Highlights by Type

1. Best for Families:

• Winter Park: Safe, great schools, and rich in cultural amenities.
• Dunedin: Safe, outdoor activities, and affordable coastal living.

2. Best for Retirees:

• Fernandina Beach: Peaceful, beachside living with outdoor activities.
• Vero Beach: Safe, upscale, and great healthcare.

3. Most Affordable:

• Blountstown: Very low cost of living in a rural setting.
• Apalachicola: Affordable, quiet coastal town.

4. Best Near Orlando:

• Mount Dora: Quaint, affordable, close to Orlando.
• Winter Park: Upscale, cultural, and near Orlando.

5. Best for Coastal Living:

• Fernandina Beach: Beautiful beaches, historic charm.
• New Smyrna Beach: Affordable, beach lifestyle.

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• Best for Arts and Culture:

• Gulfport: Artsy community with festivals and galleries.
• St. Augustine: Rich history, museums, and Spanish architecture.

• Best for Nature Lovers:

• Cedar Key: Remote, natural beauty with outdoor activities.
• Dunedin: Hiking, kayaking, and parks near the Gulf Coast.

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Conclusion

Florida’s small towns offer a unique blend of charm, affordability, and quality of life. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly communities, quiet retirement spots, or coastal retreats, these best small towns in Florida have something for everyone. From the artistic vibes of Gulfport to the historic beauty of Fernandina Beach, these towns provide a peaceful alternative to the bustling big cities while still offering modern amenities. No matter your lifestyle preference, there’s a small town in Florida that can be your perfect match.

FAQs for Best Small Towns In Florida

How is healthcare in these small towns?
Most towns have local clinics or nearby hospitals. Winter Park and Vero Beach offer top-notch medical services.

What festivals or events are popular in these towns?
Towns like Mount Dora and Dunedin host well-known art and heritage festivals, offering entertainment for both residents and visitors.

What outdoor activities are available in these towns?
Enjoy fishing, boating, and kayaking in Fernandina Beach, or hiking and nature trails in Dunedin.

How do towns manage seasonal tourism?
Towns like St. Augustine handle seasonal tourism smoothly, with good infrastructure to minimize disruptions for residents.

Are these towns good for remote workers?
Yes, towns like Mount Dora and Gulfport are great for remote workers, offering quiet environments and reliable internet.