Davenport is considered moderately affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $1,750 and utility costs slightly higher than the national average.
Imagine you’re Sarah, a 32-year-old accountant relocating to Davenport for a new job opportunity. As you start apartment hunting and budgeting for your move, you quickly realize that understanding the true cost of living in this Central Florida city is essential for making smart financial decisions. Let’s break down the key expenses you can expect in Davenport circa 2025.
Housing Costs in Davenport
Housing is typically the largest expense for most households, and Davenport offers a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. For renters, a basic 1-bedroom apartment in an older complex might start around $1,200 per month, while a newer 2-bedroom unit in a gated community with amenities could reach $1,800 or more.
If you’re looking to purchase a home, expect to find a mix of single-family houses, townhomes, and villas. A 3-bedroom, 2-bath house in an established neighborhood might cost around $350,000, while a larger new construction home in a golf course community could exceed $500,000. Keep in mind that many Davenport neighborhoods have homeowners associations (HOAs), which can add $200-400 to your monthly housing costs.
Here’s a quick comparison of typical housing costs in Davenport:
- 1-bedroom apartment: $1,200 – $1,500/month
- 2-bedroom apartment: $1,500 – $1,800/month
- 3-bedroom house: $350,000 – $450,000 purchase price
- 4-bedroom house: $450,000 – $600,000+ purchase price
Utility Costs in Davenport
Utility expenses are another important factor in your monthly budget. In Davenport, you can expect to pay around $150-200 per month for electricity for a 1,000 square foot apartment, with costs rising during the hot summer months when air conditioning is a must. Water and sewer fees are often included in apartment rents but can add $50-75 per month if paid separately.
Internet and cable packages start around $80 per month for basic service, while a comprehensive bundle with high-speed internet and premium channels might cost $150 or more. Here’s a sample breakdown of monthly utility costs for a 2-bedroom apartment:
| Utility | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $150 – $250 |
| Water & Sewer | $50 – $75 |
| Internet & Cable | $80 – $150 |
| Total | $280 – $475 |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Food is another essential expense, and Davenport offers a variety of grocery stores and dining options to fit different tastes and budgets. For a single person, plan to spend around $300-400 per month on groceries, depending on your eating habits. A family of four might spend closer to $800-1,000 per month.
To give you an idea of local prices, here’s what you might pay for some common grocery items in Davenport:
- Gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $2.75
- Dozen eggs: $2.50
- Pound of chicken breast: $4.00
Dining out can add up quickly, with a basic fast food meal costing around $8-10 and a sit-down dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant running $40-60 with tax and tip. Budget an extra $200-300 per month per person if you enjoy eating out regularly.
Taxes and Other Costs
Florida is known for its low tax burden, with no state income tax. However, residents do pay property taxes, which are around 1% of a home’s assessed value in Davenport. For a $400,000 house, that equates to roughly $4,000 per year or $333 per month.
If you own a car, you’ll also need to factor in costs like gas (around $2.75/gallon in 2025), insurance ($100-200/month for full coverage), and registration fees ($50-100 annually). A monthly transit pass costs about $50 if you prefer public transportation.
Here’s a side-by-side look at some other common expenses:
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Property Tax (1% annually) | $280 – $420 |
| Car Insurance | $100 – $200 |
| Gas (15 gallons/week) | $160 – $200 |
| Transit Pass | $50 |
Sample Monthly Budget
To summarize, here’s a sample monthly budget for a single person, a couple, and a family of four living in Davenport:
| Expense | Single | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (rent or mortgage) | $1,400 | $1,750 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $300 | $400 | $500 |
| Groceries | $350 | $600 | $900 |
| Dining Out | $250 | $400 | $600 |
| Transportation | $300 | $500 | $800 |
| Taxes & Insurance | $500 | $750 | $1,000 |
| Total | $3,100 | $4,400 | $6,000 |
Keep in mind these are rough estimates and your actual expenses may vary based on your specific situation and lifestyle. To live comfortably in Davenport, aim for a gross monthly income (pre-tax) of at least $3,500 for a single person, $5,000 for a couple, or $7,000 for a family of four.
Lifestyle Considerations
While cost is certainly important, it’s not the only factor to consider when relocating. Davenport offers a suburban lifestyle with easy access to major highways, shopping centers, and outdoor recreation. Many neighborhoods feature community pools, playgrounds, and walking trails, making it an appealing choice for families.
However, traffic congestion can be a challenge during peak times, especially along US-27 and I-4. Commute times to major employment centers like Orlando and Tampa can exceed 45-60 minutes each way. Remote work opportunities can help offset this, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’ll be driving to an office regularly.
Davenport also offers a good balance of affordability and newer housing stock compared to some nearby cities. While you might pay slightly more than in an older neighborhood in Haines City or Winter Haven, you’ll likely get a newer home with modern features and amenities. Conversely, prices are generally lower than in highly desirable areas like Windermere or Doctor Phillips, but you’ll have a longer commute to Orlando.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What salary do you need to live comfortably in Davenport?
A: To live comfortably, aim for a gross monthly income of at least $3,500 for a single person, $5,000 for a couple, or $7,000 for a family of four. - Q: Is Davenport cheaper than Orlando?
A: Yes, housing costs in Davenport are generally 20-30% lower than in Orlando proper, though you’ll have a longer commute to major employment centers. - Q: Are utilities expensive in Davenport?
A: Utility costs in Davenport are slightly higher than the national average, largely due to high summer cooling costs. Expect to pay $280-475 per month for a typical 2-bedroom apartment. - Q: How much is the average rent in Davenport?
A: As of 2025, average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,200 – $1,500/month, while a 2-bedroom unit ranges from $1,500 – $1,800/month. - Q: Do you need a car to live in Davenport?
A: While there are some public transit options, having a car is highly recommended to get around easily in Davenport and access job opportunities in the greater Orlando area. - Q: What are the best neighborhoods in Davenport for families?
A: Some popular family-friendly communities include Champions Gate, Calabay Parc, Highland Meadows, and Watersong, which offer amenities like community pools, playgrounds, and walking trails.
By carefully considering your income, lifestyle priorities, and the costs outlined above, you can create a realistic budget and make an informed decision about whether Davenport is the right fit for your next chapter.