How you can give or receive assistance
Heart of Florida United Way, in collaboration with public utilities such as the Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC—The Reliable One), Duke Energy, the City of Winter Park Utilities, and Lake Apopka Natural Gas District, offers emergency residential utility assistance as part of our commitment to the community’s well-being. The availability of this assistance is contingent on the funds at our disposal.
When you choose to support Heart of Florida United Way, you’re not just giving money; you’re giving hope and a lifeline to those who need it most. You’re standing up for the dreams of children, the health of families, the stability of struggling individuals, and the fundamental needs that make life bearable.
Overall Living
The average cost of living in Florida is very close to the national average—just over 2% higher. But while that 2% represents the state average, there’s a wide range in cost of living among individual cities in Florida, ranging from 8% lower to 21% higher in cost when compared to the average U.S. city.
Home Costs
Let’s start with housing costs. In June 2023, the median home price in Florida was $478,500—a little over $30,000 (7%) higher than the national median of $445,000.
Unfortunately, rent prices in Florida aren’t so close to the rest of the country. The median monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Florida was more than $1,682—nearly 25% higher than the national median of $1,346!
Income Tax
Can you guess how much income tax Florida charges? Zilch, zip, nada, nothing! That’s right, folks, the Sunshine State doesn’t take any of the hard-earned money out of your paycheck or retirement income—one of the many perks that makes Florida such a popular place to retire. Keep in mind, Florida still has a state sales tax rate of 6%—or 7.02% if you include its average local tax rate. That’s not too bad, though, considering the percentage is only the 24th highest in the country for total sales tax
There’s a downside, though: Florida has one of the highest taxes in the country on cellphone use and gas—along with some other special taxes.6 If all this tax talk makes you feel dizzy, don’t worry. You can find out exactly how moving to Florida will impact your taxes by connecting with one of our trusted tax advisors.