Cost of Living in Seminole County, Florida
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Seminole County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Seminole County ranks #2,400 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Seminole County, Florida
Seminole rents outpace national norms
Seminole County renters spend 24.4% of income on housing, compared to the national average of roughly 28% for median rent-to-income ratios. With a median household income of $83,030—well above the national median of $74,755—residents here earn enough to absorb higher rents without severe affordability strain.
More affordable than most Florida counties
Seminole's 24.4% rent-to-income ratio places it slightly above Florida's state average of 22.5%, but rents here run significantly higher than the statewide median of $1,233. Among Florida's 67 counties, Seminole represents a middle-ground: costlier than rural areas, more affordable than booming coastal hubs.
Less costly than St. Johns, more than Volusia
Neighboring St. Johns County carries median rent of $1,775, making Seminole's $1,686 relatively accessible. Volusia County to the south offers slightly lower rents at $1,368, though Seminole's higher incomes offset its higher housing costs.
Rent and mortgages split the budget
Renters here pay $1,686 monthly while homeowners owe $1,484, meaning both groups spend roughly 20–24% of the $83,030 median income on housing. The median home value of $357,300 remains within reach for this county's above-average earners.
Consider Seminole if you earn above median
Seminole offers a balance of suburban convenience and reasonable housing costs—especially for households earning above $83,000. If affordability matters more than income level, Suwannee or Taylor counties offer steeper discounts; if earning potential draws you, St. Johns County may reward that investment.
Cost of Living Advisory: Seminole County
Affordability Verdict
Seminole County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,686/month representing approximately 24.4% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 33.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Seminole County pay $1,686/month on average, compared to $1,484/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 12%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $67,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $63,600/year. With a median household income of $83,030, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 33.0% of renter households in Seminole County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Florida, Seminole County is less affordable than Collier County by roughly 4% ($1,686/mo vs $1,752/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Seminole County
Rent Burden
24.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,937
per month
Owner Cost Burden
21.4%
of gross income
The median home in Seminole County may be a stretch
Median home value is $357,300. Estimated monthly cost: $2,852 vs. your max of $1,937.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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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
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
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