Top 10 Affordable Housing Areas in Florida for CNAs and Nurses

Finding affordable housing can be challenging, especially for dedicated healthcare professionals like Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and nurses. With long hours and often modest salaries, it can feel overwhelming to discover suitable living arrangements. Fortunately, Florida, with its warm climate and diverse communities, provides several areas where healthcare workers can find budget-friendly housing. This blog post highlights the top 10 cities and neighborhoods in Florida that offer affordable living options for CNAs and nurses.

A peaceful suburban neighborhood in Florida

1. Jacksonville

Jacksonville is one of Florida's largest cities, featuring a diverse range of affordable housing. The cost of living in Jacksonville is approximately 8% lower than the national average. The city is home to over 23 hospitals and numerous healthcare facilities, providing ample job opportunities for CNAs and nurses while enjoying a lively urban environment.

2. Orlando

Orlando is famous for its theme parks, but it also has a robust healthcare sector with over 15 major hospitals. Affordable housing can be found in neighborhoods such as Pine Hills and Meadow Woods, where rent averages around $1,400 per month for a two-bedroom apartment. The city's combination of entertainment options and warm weather makes it a desirable spot for healthcare professionals.

3. Tampa

Tampa is known for its thriving economy, especially in the healthcare industry, home to several major hospitals and clinics. The cost of living is reasonable, with neighborhoods like East Tampa offering rental prices averaging $1,300 for a two-bedroom apartment. Tampa's beautiful waterfront parks and cultural venues add to its appeal, making it an excellent choice for CNAs and nurses.

4. St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg features stunning beaches and a vibrant arts scene, all while providing a lower cost of living—around 2% below the national average. Affordable housing is available in areas like Gulfport and Historic Kenwood, where two-bedroom rentals can be found for about $1,250 monthly. With several healthcare facilities in the vicinity, St. Pete is an ideal spot for healthcare professionals seeking both work and leisure.

A cozy apartment complex in St. Petersburg, Florida

5. Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale combines urban and suburban living, with affordable housing in neighborhoods like Lauderhill and Plantation. The healthcare sector is expanding, with 12 hospitals in the area. Rent costs are manageable, averaging $1,400 for a two-bedroom apartment, making it a convenient option for CNAs and nurses while allowing easy access to Florida’s beautiful coastline.

6. Gainesville

Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville maintains a lower cost of living compared to many other cities—about 10% less than the national average. With affordable housing options available, particularly in quieter neighborhoods, CNAs and nurses can benefit from rental prices around $1,200 for a two-bedroom unit. The city has several healthcare facilities where job opportunities abound.

7. Sarasota

Sarasota, known for its gorgeous beaches, also offers affordable housing options in neighborhoods like North Sarasota and Gulf Gate Estates. The cost of living is relatively low despite the city's luxurious image, with two-bedroom apartments averaging around $1,350 per month. The area's robust healthcare sector contributes to a strong job market for CNAs and nurses.

8. Lakeland

Lakeland lies conveniently between Tampa and Orlando and presents a low cost of living. Neighborhoods like Dixieland and South Lakeland offer rental prices averaging $1,200 for a two-bedroom apartment. With the healthcare industry growing in the area, Lakeland is a great option for CNAs and nurses in search of work and affordable living.

9. Cape Coral

Known for its beautiful canals, Cape Coral boasts a reasonable cost of living—about 5% lower than the national average. Affordable housing options are plentiful, with rental prices around $1,300 for a two-bedroom unit. The city’s expanding healthcare sector allows CNAs and nurses to find suitable job opportunities while enjoying an outdoor-oriented lifestyle.

10. Palm Bay

Palm Bay is a rapidly growing city that offers a suburban lifestyle with a low cost of living. The area has affordable housing options available, with two-bedroom rentals averaging around $1,250 per month. With multiple healthcare facilities close by, CNAs and nurses can find job opportunities while relishing the natural beauty that Palm Bay offers.

A residential area in Palm Bay, Florida with affordable homes

Making Affordable Choices

Finding affordable housing in Florida is achievable for CNAs and nurses, especially in the cities and areas highlighted in this post. Each location provides unique benefits, from numerous job opportunities in healthcare to lively community atmospheres. By exploring these options, healthcare professionals can discover areas that meet their needs and budget, all while experiencing the best of what Florida offers. Whether you enjoy the dynamic environment of Orlando or the tranquil beaches of Sarasota, there is an affordable living choice waiting for you in the Sunshine State.