Cost of Living in Tampa, FL
Tampa cost of living index: 104.05 (above the US average). Median home price: $449,750.
Updated 2026 • Based on 24 local zip codes
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
4% above the national average
Housing
Data from 24 zip codes
Housing costs in Tampa, FL based on real market data from 24 local zip codes.
Considering a move to Tampa, FL? With a housing index of 106.52, the area appears to be moderately priced compared to national averages. The median home price of 449750.0 combined with rental rates averaging 2010.96 for apartments and for houses may suggest a competitive market. This region could be ideal for those seeking urban living with access to amenities. However, be aware that housing costs may impact your overall budget, making it essential to evaluate your long-term financial objectives before making a decision.
Last updated: January 2026
Utilities
The cost of utilities such as electricity, natural gas, and other services can significantly impact the overall cost of living.
Living in Tampa, FL could entail variable utility costs. Electricity costs sit at $13.89, while natural gas is priced at $26.13 per Thousand Cubic Feet. Expect to budget about $110.24 monthly for other services like water and garbage.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Local Income & Economy in Tampa, FL
How far does your money go in Tampa? Understanding the relationship between income and cost of living is key to evaluating affordability.
How We Calculate Adjusted Purchasing Power in Tampa
The adjusted purchasing power shows what a Tampa, FL household income is actually worth after accounting for local prices. We calculate it using the formula: Purchasing Power = Median Income ÷ Cost of Living Index × 100
For Tampa, that's $66,802 ÷ 104.05 × 100 = $64,202. This means a household earning the median income in Tampa has the equivalent buying power of $64,202 in a city where the cost of living index equals the national baseline of 100.
Tampa's cost of living index of 104.05 is moderately above the US average, meaning residents pay 4% more for typical goods and services. However, with a median household income of $66,802, many families find Tampa affordable relative to other cities in FL. The adjusted purchasing power of $64,202 reflects a slight reduction in buying power, but strong local job markets and quality of life often offset the higher expenses.
The local unemployment rate of 3.7% is below the national average, indicating a strong job market in Tampa, FL. Combined with a median income of $66,802, this suggests good earning potential that helps offset the above-average cost of living.
💡 Purchasing power is calculated by dividing the local median household income by the cost of living index and multiplying by 100. A result higher than the nominal income means your money goes further; a lower result means local prices erode your earnings. The US baseline cost of living index is 100.
Pros & Cons of Living in Tampa
Pros
- • Diverse cultural scene
- • Great weather year-round
- • Active outdoor lifestyle
- • Growing tech industry
- • Vibrant nightlife options
- • Affordable cost of living
- • Strong sports community
- • Family-friendly activities
- • Job market is improving
- • Proximity to beaches
Cons
- • Risk of hurricanes
- • Property insurance costs
- • Traffic congestion issues
- • Schools vary greatly in quality
- • Limited public transport
- • Sparse community feel
- • Political polarization exists
- • Higher crime in some areas
- • Some neighborhoods feel unsafe
- • High humidity in summer
💡City Insights
Tampa scores 5/10 for affordability, 5/10 for safety, and 5/10 for family-friendliness — an good overall profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Tampa, FL? ▼
The cost of living in Tampa, FL is 4% higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 104 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in Tampa, FL? ▼
In Tampa, FL, The median home price is $449,750. requiring approximately $139,232 annual income to afford. Average rent is $2,011/month (requiring ~$80,438/year income). The local median household income is $66,802, making homeownership challenging for typical residents. Explore Tampa real estate data →
Is Tampa, FL a safe place to live? ▼
Tampa, FL is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed Tampa crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Tampa, FL? ▼
To live comfortably in Tampa, FL and afford a median-priced home of $449,750, you would typically need a household income of $112,438 to $140,547 per year. The local median household income is $66,802. Renting requires approximately $80,438/year (at $2,011/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the best neighborhoods in Tampa, FL? ▼
The best neighborhoods in Tampa, FL depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods farther from the city center tend to offer more affordable options.
How are the taxes in Tampa, FL? ▼
Tax rates in Tampa, FL include state and local components. The cost of living index of 104 reflects a moderate cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed Tampa tax information →
How does Tampa, FL compare to nearby cities? ▼
Tampa, FL offers comparable costs to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 104, median home prices of $449,750, and a crime rate of 0 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.
What is the weather like in Tampa, FL? ▼
Weather in Tampa, FL varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed Tampa climate & environment data →
What factors affect cost of living in Tampa, FL? ▼
The main factors affecting cost of living in Tampa, FL include housing costs (the biggest factor), utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare. Local taxes and the overall economic conditions also play a role.
Housing Costs by Zip Code
Detailed housing data across 24 zip codes in Tampa, FL.
| Zip Code | Median Home Price | Avg Rent | 2BR Rent | For Sale | For Rent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 33602 | $839,000 | $4,966/mo | $3,200/mo | 225 | 128 |
| 33603 | $499,000 | $2,811/mo | $2,350/mo | 146 | 75 |
| 33604 | $399,400 | $1,920/mo | $1,685/mo | 285 | 146 |
| 33605 | $315,000 | $2,331/mo | $1,825/mo | 147 | 93 |
| 33606 | $1,200,000 | $4,059/mo | $2,950/mo | 159 | 136 |
| 33607 | $450,000 | $2,629/mo | $1,800/mo | 160 | 108 |
| 33609 | $755,990 | $3,075/mo | $2,100/mo | 195 | 145 |
| 33610 | $274,000 | $2,185/mo | $1,850/mo | 274 | 107 |
| 33611 | $539,000 | $3,210/mo | $2,200/mo | 309 | 167 |
| 33612 | $356,000 | $1,576/mo | $1,399/mo | 122 | 97 |
| 33613 | $161,995 | $1,848/mo | $1,500/mo | 118 | 90 |
| 33614 | $409,900 | $1,880/mo | $1,700/mo | 163 | 95 |
| 33615 | $399,000 | $2,424/mo | $1,725/mo | 278 | 118 |
| 33616 | $460,000 | $2,700/mo | $1,604/mo | 121 | 84 |
| 33618 | $449,500 | $2,472/mo | $1,895/mo | 153 | 44 |
| 33619 | $330,000 | $2,232/mo | $1,800/mo | 164 | 90 |
| 33621 | — | — | — | — | — |
| 33624 | $454,900 | $2,515/mo | $1,895/mo | 146 | 82 |
| 33625 | $450,900 | $2,788/mo | $2,000/mo | 133 | 34 |
| 33626 | $480,000 | $2,870/mo | $2,025/mo | 109 | 50 |
| 33629 | — | $5,284/mo | $2,600/mo | — | 105 |
| 33634 | $439,900 | $2,607/mo | $2,499/mo | 86 | 52 |
| 33635 | $345,000 | $2,475/mo | $2,000/mo | 123 | 28 |
| 33647 | $475,000 | $2,438/mo | $1,650/mo | 318 | 192 |
Explore More About Tampa, FL
📅 Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), Bureau of Labor Statistics, Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Zillow, Redfin