Cost of Living in Citrus County: What New Residents Should Expect

By Diana Dodd, Realtor — ERA American Suncoast Realty

Moving to Citrus County is one of the easiest ways to enjoy Florida living without the high prices found in major metro areas. New residents come here for affordable housing, lower taxes, manageable insurance rates, and a lifestyle that doesn’t drain the budget. If you’re deciding whether Citrus County fits your financial plans, here’s the breakdown of what the cost of living really looks like.

Housing Costs Are Still One of Citrus County’s Biggest Advantages

Home prices remain lower than most parts of Florida. Whether you want a single-family home, a condo, or a property with land, buyers usually get more value here than in Tampa, Orlando, or South Florida.

If you’re still learning about area neighborhoods, here’s my Moving to Citrus County Guide. It’s a great first step before you compare prices.

New residents often find:

• Affordable move-in-ready homes

• Larger lots for the same price you’d pay for a small yard elsewhere

• Communities suited for retirees, families, veterans, and first-time buyers

Housing remains one of the strongest reasons people relocate here.

Property Taxes Stay Predictable With Homestead

Citrus County property taxes are lower and more predictable than many counties across Florida.
The Florida Homestead Exemption helps keep annual increases stable and prevents sudden jumps.

Many people moving from high-tax states like New York, California, and Illinois tell me the tax difference alone was enough to convince them to relocate.

Insurance Costs Are Manageable Compared to Coastal Areas

Insurance is a hot topic statewide, but Citrus County homeowners benefit from being inland and away from storm surge zones.
Rates here are often significantly lower than in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, or Pinellas County.

This makes Citrus County especially appealing to retirees and families trying to keep long-term costs down.

Utilities and Day-to-Day Living Expenses Stay Comfortable

Most everyday expenses in Citrus County sit close to the national average — sometimes even a little below it.
There’s no big-city surcharge on utilities, groceries, or local services.

A recent comparison shows how Citrus County stacks up:
Citrus County cost-of-living data

Residents appreciate:

• Steady utility pricing

• Fewer “city fees”

• Budget-friendly services

• A simple lifestyle that naturally costs less

It’s an easy area to live in without feeling squeezed financially.

Healthcare Options Without Big-City Stress

Retirees especially benefit from Citrus County’s healthcare network.
You’ll find hospitals, emergency care, specialists, and primary care options locally — without the overwhelming traffic or appointment delays found in large metro areas.

The quality of care combined with lower overall costs is one of the main reasons retirees choose to settle here.

Recreation Is Affordable — Sometimes Free

Citrus County is known for its outdoor lifestyle.
Most recreation doesn’t cost much at all.

Popular low-cost (or free) activities include:

• Springs and rivers

• Fishing

• Kayaking

• Nature trails

• Wildlife parks

• Community events

It’s a lifestyle built around nature, not expensive entertainment.

Thinking About Moving to Citrus County?

If you’re comparing areas or trying to understand what your budget will get you here, I’ll walk you through the numbers clearly and honestly. You deserve a stress-free move and a clear picture of what living in Citrus County really costs.

Call me at 352-746-3600
Email: diana.dodd@eracitrus.com

Thank you so much.