Top 8 Best Places to Live in Florida for Families (2023)

As a result of its pleasant climate, stunning beaches, and low taxes, Florida has always been a preferred destination for American families. If you’re considering settling down in the Sunshine State, this list of the top eight places to raise a family in Florida will assist you in making an informed decision about where to call home.

8 Best Places to Live in Florida for Families

1. Niceville

If you are looking for the perfect place to raise a family in Florida, look no further than Niceville. This charming small city is situated along the Emerald Coast in Okaloosa County, offering residents stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a serene lifestyle. Niceville is an ideal spot for families and retirees alike, thanks to its natural beauty, welcoming community, low crime rates, excellent schools, and affordable housing. With all of these amazing features, it’s no wonder that Niceville is considered the top choice for families in Florida.

2. Port Saint Lucie

Located on Florida’s eastern coast, Port Saint Lucie is an ideal place to raise a family, and it ranks second in the state for this. With its vast environmental preserves, hiking trails, rivers, and beaches, the city is a haven for nature lovers. Sports enthusiasts will also find the city appealing, with several golf courses to choose from and the chance to catch a glimpse of the New York Mets practicing on their spring training field. Moreover, Port Saint Lucie has some of the lowest crime rates in the state, making it a secure place for families to live.

3. Naples 

Nestled on the Gulf of Mexico, Naples is an ideal destination for families seeking an authentic Florida experience. Renowned for its picturesque sugar-sand beaches, warm and inviting climate, and serene waters, this city embodies the quintessential Floridian charm. Naples is also famous for its upscale boutiques, fine dining establishments, and refined cultural offerings. Although the housing prices and rental rates in this area are among the highest on our list, the breathtaking state parks, dolphin-watching sites, and plethora of other family-friendly activities more than justify the cost. Ultimately, Naples is a destination that caters to the diverse interests of every family member.

4. Tampa 

Families looking for a great place to live in Florida will find Tampa to be an excellent option. This community is conveniently located near the Gulf of Mexico and Busch Gardens, offering residents both serene beach living and exciting entertainment options. With the Florida Aquarium, numerous local parks, museums, top-rated restaurants, and pedestrian-friendly streets, there is no shortage of amenities to enjoy in Tampa. Furthermore, the region’s home prices and rental rates are highly competitive, making it an affordable option for families considering Florida’s southwestern coast.

5. Ponte Vedra

Located on the eastern coast of Florida, just outside of Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra is a highly sought-after destination for affluent families. This upmarket city boasts a reputation as one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in the state and offers residents a peaceful life with a plethora of luxurious amenities. From breathtaking oceanfront views and stunning custom architecture to world-class resorts and nature reserves, Ponte Vedra has it all. The area is also renowned for its exceptional school systems, top-rated golf courses, beautiful local beaches, and temperate weather. If you’re looking for a more extravagant lifestyle, Ponte Vedra is the perfect place to call home.

6. Pensacola

Pensacola, situated in the northwestern part of Florida, is an ideal location for families. It is fondly called the “Cradle of Naval Aviation” due to its rich military history and is home to the Naval Air Station and the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron. Besides its military legacy, Pensacola boasts of stunning white-sand beaches, clear emerald-green waters, and some of the finest fishing spots in the entire state of Florida. The locals can also benefit from the low home prices and rental rates, which make Pensacola an affordable region along the Gulf Coast.

7. Ocala

For families who prefer the quieter, inland life, Ocala is a great option. This city, located in north central Florida, offers residents a small-town atmosphere while still providing access to big-city amenities. The picturesque tree-lined streets are just the beginning of the local attractions. Residents can also enjoy the natural beauty of the Ocala National Forest or take in the art at the Appleton Museum of Art. Additionally, those interested in equestrian pursuits will find that Ocala has the best selection of horse farms and events in the state. With some of the most competitive home prices and rental rates available, Ocala is the perfect choice for those looking for an affordable area with high potential.

8. Melbourne

Melbourne, situated on the east coast of Florida, is an ideal destination for families seeking to witness NASA’s space expeditions up close. The region forms a part of the state’s “Space Coast,” spanning across 72 miles, and includes other cities like Palm Bay, Cocoa Beach, and Port Canaveral. Melbourne stands out for its convenient proximity to the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, both of which have served as launch sites for all of NASA’s manned space missions. Moreover, with schools ranking among Florida’s top 30 percentile and affordable home prices below the state average, Melbourne is a perfect fit for families with a passion for science and aspiring astronauts.

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