Florida is a great state if you are looking for construction opportunities, thanks to its booming job market, lack of state income tax, and lively lifestyle. Statista projected its construction industry to reach $171.4 billion by 2024, further cementing the promise of work. However, the cost of living massively fluctuates depending on which city you’re in, therefore, we want to provide some guidance on understanding what life - and expenses - look like across the state’s major cities. From Jacksonville’s affordability to Miami’s premium lifestyle, if you’re contemplating relocating for the next big project, this guide breaks down the cost of living in the four main Florida cities.
1. Jacksonville
Florida’s largest city is also one of the most cost-effective places to live in the state, with cost of living 7% below the national average, according to Payscale. As of January 2025, Numbeo released the average monthly expenses (without rent) are $1,076.90 for a single person and $3,852.40 for a family of four.
Housing, utilities, and transportation costs are below the national average, allowing residents larger budgets. Jacksonville offers a suburban feel with cultural attractions like riverfront parks and proximity to Atlantic beaches, making it a balanced choice for affordability and lifestyle. For construction professionals, the city’s ongoing development and infrastructure projects, such as the I-4 Ultimate expansion in Central Florida and the widening of I-75, provide opportunities for contractors.
2. Miami
Miami is renowned for its busy lifestyle, high-quality dining, and beautiful beaches, drawing workers to the city. However, living here isn’t cheap and the cost of living is a huge 19% above the national average, making it one of Florida’s most expensive cities. The average monthly expenses (without rent) are $1,300.20 for a single person and $4,764.20 for a family of four.
Housing is the biggest expense in Miami, with costs 54% above the national average, partly because many Americans relocated to Florida during the pandemic in 2020. However, Florida’s lack of state income tax offsets some financial burdens for residents. Yet despite the higher costs, Miami still attracts people looking for an urban life and luxurious amenities. For construction professionals, the city offers exciting projects, especially in luxury residential developments and commercial real estate.
3. Tampa
Tampa offers a balanced lifestyle with a cost of living 3% below the national average. The average monthly expenses (without rent) are $1,296.90 for a single person and $4,613.80 for a family of four, making it a popular choice for families and professionals.
Tampa’s tropical climate, excellent schools, and beaches on its doorstep also add to the appeal. Large projects like the Water Street Tampa redevelopment, a $3.5 billion mixed-use urban project, offer construction workers the chance to work on large-scale developments.
4. Orlando
Orlando is internationally recognized for its tourist attractions, but despite its popularity, its cost of living is still 1% below the national average, making it slightly more expensive than Jacksonville and Tampa but much more reasonable than Miami. The average monthly expenses (without rent) are $1,296.90 for a single person and $4,613.80 for a family of four
Housing and groceries are slightly higher, both being 1% above the nation, however Orlando’s construction opportunities in entertainment, like the upcoming $1 billion Universal Epic Universe theme park, can justify these costs. Furthermore, Florida’s absence of state income tax enhances affordability.
While each Florida city offers its different lifestyle and cost of living, understanding which suits you best helps your construction career and lets you plan better. Whether it’s weighing soaring house and rent costs in Miami against its vibrant culture or taking advantage of Jacksonville’s affordability to save for the future, we hope this blog offers some guidance for balancing your career and budget.
For a detailed look at salary trends and talent insights for the Florida Civil Construction market, download our Salary Guide. This initiative capitalizes on the thousands of meaningful conversations we have each week with construction professionals across the U.S., enabling us to deliver valuable, actionable insights. It offers expert guidance, market data, and salary insights by region, job title, primary market, and sub-market.
Sign up to the MKH newsletter to stay informed on key industry trends for all things construction.
LinkedIn
Facebook