Winter Park, FL vs. Clermont, FL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Orlando area in 2025? This cost of living comparison of Winter Park vs Clermont will help you decide which charming suburb fits your lifestyle and budget. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in these popular central Florida communities.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare between Winter Park and Clermont:
| Housing Type | Winter Park | Clermont |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $650,000 | $450,000 |
| Mortgage Payment* | $3,250 | $2,250 |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $2,400 | $1,800 |
*Estimated monthly payment on a 30-year fixed mortgage with 20% down and 5% interest rate.
🏆 Winner: Clermont. Housing costs are significantly lower in Clermont, with a typical household saving $1,000 per month or more compared to Winter Park.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to pay around $200-250 per month for electricity, water, gas, and waste services for a 3BR home. Summers tend to be slightly more expensive due to higher AC usage.
Both cities offer “time of use” plans that provide cheaper electricity rates during off-peak hours. Taking advantage of these can help reduce bills.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable between Winter Park and Clermont.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries, dining out, and everyday purchases cost about the same in Winter Park and Clermont. Expect to spend around $400-500 per month per person on food and incidentals.
One notable difference: Winter Park has more high-end dining and boutique shopping options, which can add up if frequented. Clermont tends to have more affordable chain restaurants and big box stores.
🏆 Winner: Clermont, but only slightly. Grocery costs are similar, but Clermont offers more budget-friendly dining and shopping.
4. Taxes and Fees
Florida has no state income tax, so that’s one less expense to worry about. However, both cities have some unique taxes and fees to consider:
- Winter Park has slightly higher property taxes at 1.05% vs Clermont’s 0.95%
- Many Winter Park neighborhoods have HOA fees of $200-400/month that cover landscaping, amenities, and exterior maintenance
- Clermont has a 10% lower millage rate, which translates to cheaper car registration renewals and other municipal fees
🏆 Winner: Clermont. Lower property taxes and fewer HOA fees give Clermont the edge.
5. Cost Summary
| Monthly Expense | Winter Park | Clermont |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $3,250 | $2,250 |
| Utilities | $225 | $225 |
| Groceries | $500 | $450 |
| Transportation | $550 | $500 |
| Taxes & Fees | $600 | $400 |
| Misc Costs | $800 | $600 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $5,925 | $4,425 |
Figures are estimates for a 2-person household in a 3BR home. Your actual costs may vary. See our Sample Monthly Budgets for Winter Park in 2025 for more details.
6. Lifestyle Fit
Cost is just one factor in choosing between Winter Park and Clermont. Also consider:
- Commute: Winter Park is closer to downtown Orlando, while Clermont is further west
- Schools: Both have excellent public schools, but Winter Park is known for its top-rated K-12
- Vibe: Winter Park has a posh, walkable downtown; Clermont is more suburban and nature-oriented
For a full breakdown, read our guide on the Cost of Living in Winter Park: What You’ll Really Spend in 2025.
7. FAQ
Is Winter Park more expensive than Clermont?
Yes, the cost of living is about 25% higher in Winter Park compared to Clermont, mainly due to pricier housing, taxes, and HOA fees.
Which city has cheaper homes?
Clermont. The median home price is around $450,000 in Clermont vs $650,000 in Winter Park as of 2025.
How much can I save living in Clermont vs Winter Park?
A typical household moving from Winter Park to Clermont might save $1,500 per month on housing, taxes, and daily expenses. That’s $18,000 per year!
8. The Bottom Line
While both Winter Park and Clermont provide a high quality of life, Clermont comes out ahead in affordability. Cheaper housing, lower taxes, and more budget-friendly shopping give it the overall cost of living advantage.
However, Winter Park’s higher costs come with perks like top schools, a walkable downtown, and quick access to Orlando. It’s a great fit for households who value those amenities and can comfortably afford the higher expenses.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your family’s priorities and financial situation. We hope this comparison of the cost of living in Winter Park vs Clermont helps with your decision! For more insights, check out our other cost of living articles for popular cities in Florida.