Winter Park, FL vs. Kissimmee, FL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
When it comes to cost of living, which Orlando suburb comes out on top – Winter Park or Kissimmee? This head-to-head comparison breaks down the key expenses you can expect in each city, from housing and utilities to groceries and taxes. Whether you’re relocating for work, buying a home, or renting an apartment, get the insights you need to choose the right place for your budget in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is likely your biggest monthly expense. Here’s how typical costs compare:
| Housing Type | Winter Park | Kissimmee |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $450,000 | $325,000 |
| Mortgage Payment* | $2,700 | $1,950 |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,800 | $1,500 |
*Assumes 20% down, 30-year fixed mortgage at 5% interest
🏆 Winner: Kissimmee. You’ll spend around 28% less per month on housing in Kissimmee compared to Winter Park.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are similar between the two cities, but can fluctuate based on the season:
- Expect to pay around $150-$250/month for electricity, water, and gas combined
- Bills may be 20-30% higher in summer months due to air conditioning usage
- Both cities offer “time of use” programs to save on off-peak energy
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable in Winter Park and Kissimmee.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Your everyday expenses, from groceries to gas, are an important part of your budget:
- Expect to spend around $400/month on groceries for a family of 2 in either city
- A gallon of milk averages $3.50 in Winter Park vs $3.25 in Kissimmee
- Gas prices are typically 10-15 cents cheaper per gallon in Kissimmee
🏆 Winner: Kissimmee, but only slightly. Groceries and daily goods may cost 5-10% less in Kissimmee compared to Winter Park.
4. Taxes and Fees
Don’t overlook the impact of local taxes and fees on your budget:
- Property taxes in Winter Park average 1.1% vs 1.4% in Kissimmee
- Many Winter Park neighborhoods have HOA fees of $200-400/month that cover amenities and landscaping
- Kissimmee has fewer HOAs, with fees typically under $100/month
🏆 Winner: Winter Park. Lower property taxes can offset higher housing costs, especially for homeowners.
5. Cost Summary
| Monthly Expense | Winter Park | Kissimmee |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Mortgage*) | $2,700 | $1,950 |
| Utilities | $200 | $200 |
| Groceries | $400 | $380 |
| Transportation | $500 | $450 |
| Taxes and Fees | $550 | $600 |
| Misc Expenses | $800 | $800 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $5,150 | $4,380 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Kissimmee comes out ahead on overall costs, your lifestyle priorities matter too:
- Winter Park offers a walkable downtown, leafy streets, and quicker access to Orlando
- Kissimmee provides more space for your money, with larger homes and lots
- Winter Park averages 2°F cooler than Kissimmee in the summer months
7. FAQ
Is Winter Park more affordable than Kissimmee?
Overall, Kissimmee has a lower cost of living than Winter Park, primarily due to cheaper housing. However, some may find the higher costs of Winter Park worth it for the lifestyle and location.
Which city has lower rent?
Kissimmee has lower rent than Winter Park. On average, a 2BR apartment is about $300 less per month in Kissimmee.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Homes in Kissimmee are significantly cheaper than in Winter Park. The median home price is around $125,000 lower in Kissimmee as of 2025.
8. Conclusion
So, which Orlando suburb takes the crown in this cost of living face-off? Kissimmee comes out on top for overall affordability, with lower costs for housing, groceries, and transportation. However, Winter Park remains a great choice for those prioritizing walkability, a convenient location, and the charm of a historic downtown. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your budget and lifestyle.
Considering a move to Winter Park or Kissimmee? Dive deeper with these additional resources:
- Sample Monthly Budgets for Winter Park in 2025
- Cost of Living in Winter Park, FL: What You’ll Really Spend in 2025
Please note that all income figures in this article are expressed as gross monthly income (pre-tax) estimates. Your actual take-home pay and expenses may vary.