Cost of Living in Orange County, Florida
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Orange County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Orange County ranks #3,000 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 5%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Orange County, Florida
Orange County's rent burden exceeds national norms
Orange County renters spend 26.1% of their income on housing, above the national norm and approaching the economist-flagged 30% threshold for severe unaffordability. With a median household income of $77,011 and median rent of $1,675, residents face tighter budgets than national averages despite above-average earnings.
Orange County ranks among Florida's priciest
Orange County's 26.1% rent-to-income ratio ranks above Florida's state average of 22.5%, placing it among the state's least affordable major markets. The median rent of $1,675 reflects Orlando's booming population growth and tourism-driven demand, pushing housing costs ahead of state norms.
Orange sits between affordable and premium markets
Orange County's median rent of $1,675 exceeds Marion ($1,174), Okaloosa ($1,475), and Martin ($1,499), approaching Monroe's $1,959 premium. Yet Orange's household income of $77,011 trails Nassau ($88,900) and Martin ($80,701), creating relative affordability stress compared to wealthier neighbors.
Orlando rents demand over a quarter of income
A typical Orange County renter earning $77,011 annually pays $1,675 monthly—26.1% of gross income, well above comfortable thresholds. Homeowners experience similar pressure at $1,547 monthly (24.1% of income), with median home values of $358,300 reflecting Central Florida's residential boom.
Orange County suits high earners and remote workers
Orange County's vibrant job market and tourism economy attract workers, but renters should earn well above the $77,011 median to feel comfortable with the 26.1% rent burden. Compare this market against Nassau's 18.0% affordability or Marion's 24.1% ratio to gauge whether Orlando's opportunity justifies its housing costs.
Cost of Living Advisory: Orange County
Affordability Verdict
Orange County is moderately affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,675/month representing approximately 26.1% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 34.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Orange County is $1,675/month, while owner costs run $1,547/month. Owning saves approximately $128/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $67,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $66,300/year. With a median household income of $77,011, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 34.0% of renter households in Orange County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Florida, Orange County is less affordable than Miami-Dade County by roughly 3% ($1,675/mo vs $1,731/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Orange County
Rent Burden
26.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,797
per month
Owner Cost Burden
24.1%
of gross income
The median home in Orange County may be a stretch
Median home value is $358,300. Estimated monthly cost: $2,860 vs. your max of $1,797.
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 Orange County, Florida?
What is the median rent in Orange County?
Is Orange County affordable?
How does Orange County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Orange County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Orange County, Florida? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Orange 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.