Altamonte Springs is considered moderately expensive in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $1,750 and slightly higher utility costs compared to the national average.
Living in Altamonte Springs, a suburb just north of Orlando, will cost the average household about $4,600 per month in 2025. While not the most expensive city in Florida, Altamonte Springs does have higher costs than many other parts of the state, especially when it comes to housing and utilities. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect to pay each month.
Housing Costs in Altamonte Springs
Housing is the biggest expense for most Altamonte Springs residents. Typical rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ranges from $1,600 to $1,900 per month, with an average of around $1,750. Buying a home is also costly, with the median price for a 3-bedroom house sitting at $380,000 as of 2025.
Prices can vary quite a bit depending on the neighborhood and property type. For example, apartments in the Uptown Altamonte district tend to be more expensive, often exceeding $2,000 per month for a 2-bedroom unit. On the other hand, older complexes and those further from the city center may offer 2-bedrooms for closer to $1,500.
Many neighborhoods in Altamonte Springs have Homeowners Associations (HOAs). Monthly HOA fees typically range from $200 to $400 and cover amenities like community pools, fitness centers, and landscaping. While not required, living in an HOA neighborhood is very common for homeowners in the area.
Utility Costs in Altamonte Springs
Utility bills in Altamonte Springs tend to be higher than the national average, largely due to the need for air conditioning most of the year. Expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity for a 1,000 square foot apartment. During the hottest summer months, cooling costs can push that bill closer to $250.
Water and sewer fees are about $60 per month for the average household. High-speed internet runs $65 to $100 per month depending on the provider and speed. Here’s a sample utility cost breakdown:
- Electricity: $180/month
- Water & Sewer: $60/month
- Internet: $80/month
- Trash & Recycling: $25/month
Total utility costs for a typical 2-person household in Altamonte Springs are around $345 per month. Larger homes and families can expect to pay more, especially for electricity.
Groceries and Food
Grocery prices in Altamonte Springs are fairly in line with the rest of the country. Plan on spending about $350 per month per person for food to cook at home. A gallon of milk costs around $3.50, a dozen eggs $2.80, and a pound of chicken breast $4.
Dining out will add to your food budget quickly. A meal at a casual restaurant averages $15 per person, while a nicer dinner for two can easily top $80. Grabbing a quick lunch costs around $10.
For a couple, a realistic monthly food budget that includes a mix of grocery shopping and dining out would be in the $1,000 to $1,200 range. A family of four should plan on $1,400 or more.
Taxes in Altamonte Springs
Florida has no state income tax, which helps offset the higher costs in other areas. However, residents still pay federal income taxes. Altamonte Springs has a 7% sales tax on most purchases.
Property taxes in Altamonte Springs are around 1% of a home’s assessed value. For a $380,000 house, that equates to $3,800 per year or about $317 per month.
Transportation and Car Ownership
Altamonte Springs is a very car-dependent city. Most households have at least one vehicle. Expect to pay around $300 per month for car-related expenses like gas, insurance, and maintenance.
Public transportation options are limited. The Lynx bus system does operate in Altamonte Springs, but routes and schedules are not extensive. A one-way fare is $2. Unless you live and work along a convenient bus line, it’s difficult to get by without a car in this suburb.
Monthly Budget Summary
| Expense | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent) | $1,400 | $1,750 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $250 | $345 | $450 |
| Groceries & Dining | $500 | $1,100 | $1,500 |
| Transportation | $300 | $400 | $600 |
| Discretionary | $500 | $800 | $1,000 |
| Monthly Total | $2,950 | $4,395 | $5,750 |
| Annual Income Required (pre-tax) | $42,000 | $63,000 | $82,000 |
Keep in mind these are averages and estimates. Your specific cost of living will depend on your lifestyle, housing choices, and spending habits. But in general, a single person can live comfortably in Altamonte Springs on a gross income of about $42,000 per year. A couple would need around $63,000, and a family of four $82,000 or more.
Lifestyle and Affordability Considerations
While Altamonte Springs isn’t the cheapest place to live in Florida, it does offer a good quality of life for the price. The city has an abundance of parks, highly rated schools, and convenient access to major employers in the Orlando area.
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living equation. Choosing an older home or a location a bit further out can make a big difference in your monthly budget. Many people find the tradeoff of a slightly longer commute worth it for the more affordable housing options.
Utility bills are another pain point, especially in the summer. Opting for a smaller apartment or investing in energy-efficient appliances can help keep costs in check. It’s also worth noting that some complexes include water or other utilities in the rent, so be sure to ask about that when apartment hunting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What salary do you need to live in Altamonte Springs?
To live comfortably, a single person should aim to make at least $42,000 per year before taxes. Couples will want to bring in $63,000 or more. For a family of four, a household income of $82,000 is a good baseline. But you can certainly get by on less if you’re willing to budget carefully and make some sacrifices on housing.
Is Altamonte Springs cheaper than Orlando?
In general, yes. Housing costs in Altamonte Springs are about 10% lower on average than in Orlando proper. However, the difference isn’t always dramatic, especially if you’re looking at newer apartments or homes in the more desirable parts of Altamonte Springs.
Why are utilities so high in Altamonte Springs?
The main culprit is the nearly year-round need for air conditioning. Cooling costs account for about half of the average electric bill. Older, less efficient homes and apartments can also contribute to higher utility bills.
Is Altamonte Springs a good place to retire?
It can be, especially if you’re looking for a suburban lifestyle with easy access to the amenities of a bigger city. The lack of a state income tax is also appealing for retirees. However, the higher housing and utility costs may be a drawback for those on a fixed income.
What’s the most affordable neighborhood in Altamonte Springs?
The area around the Altamonte Mall tends to have some of the most budget-friendly apartments, with 1-bedrooms sometimes available for under $1,200 a month. For home buyers, the West Town neighborhood often has the lowest price points.
How much should I budget for groceries in Altamonte Springs?
Plan on spending at least $350 per person per month if you mostly cook at home. That number goes up if you eat out frequently. For a couple, a realistic food budget is $1,000 or more. Families should plan on at least $1,400.
Can you live in Altamonte Springs without a car?
It’s possible, but not easy. The Lynx bus system does serve the area, but routes are limited. Most errands and commutes will require a car. If you do decide to go car-free, be sure to choose your housing carefully to be near bus lines, grocery stores, and other necessities.
The cost of living in Altamonte Springs is higher than in many other parts of Florida, but still manageable for most households. By understanding the major expenses and making smart choices about housing and transportation, you can enjoy all this vibrant suburb has to offer without breaking the bank.