Cost of Living in Manatee County, Florida
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Manatee County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Manatee County ranks #2,057 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 35%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Manatee County, Florida
Manatee renters stretch budgets despite higher income
Manatee County's rent-to-income ratio of 24.5% exceeds the national average, with renters spending nearly one-quarter of earnings on housing. Despite a median household income of $75,792—nearly matching the national average—Manatee's $1,549 monthly rent reflects growing demand in this coastal Tampa Bay region.
Above Florida's housing affordability line
Manatee County's 24.5% rent-to-income ratio sits above Florida's state average of 22.5%, positioning it among the state's costlier housing markets. This coastal county's popularity as a residential destination has driven prices steadily upward over recent years.
Premium pricing for coastal location
Manatee County's $1,549 median rent rivals neighboring Lee County ($1,597) and reflects the broader Tampa Bay coastal premium compared to inland rural counties. Both Southwest Florida coastal counties command similar high rents, outpacing all rural and interior alternatives by $700 or more monthly.
Owners and renters both face strain
Manatee County renters spend $1,549 monthly (24.5% of income), while homeowners face $1,244 mortgages on median homes at $359,800—the highest median value in this region. Both groups dedicate substantial income to housing, with owners carrying six-figure principal balances and renters managing tight monthly margins.
Manatee County: pay premium for coastal living
Manatee County's 24.5% rent burden and $359,800 median home values command a premium for Tampa Bay proximity and coastal amenities. If you're relocating for lifestyle and don't mind devoting roughly a quarter of income to housing, Manatee delivers waterfront access; compare carefully with more affordable inland alternatives before committing.
Cost of Living Advisory: Manatee County
Affordability Verdict
Manatee County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,549/month — about 24.5% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,549/month rent versus $1,244/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $305/month cheaper — a 20% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $61,960/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $53,314/year. With a median household income of $75,792, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 34.0% of renter households in Manatee County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Florida, Manatee County is more affordable than St. Lucie County by roughly 4% ($1,549/mo vs $1,489/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Manatee County
Rent Burden
24.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,768
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.7%
of gross income
The median home in Manatee County may be a stretch
Median home value is $359,800. Estimated monthly cost: $2,872 vs. your max of $1,768.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Manatee County, Florida?
What is the median rent in Manatee County?
Is Manatee County affordable?
How does Manatee County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Manatee County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Manatee County, Florida? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Manatee County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.