Altamonte Springs, FL vs. Winter Garden, FL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Orlando suburbs of Altamonte Springs or Winter Garden? This cost of living comparison breaks down the key differences in housing, utilities, groceries and more to help you decide which city fits your lifestyle and budget in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Altamonte Springs and Winter Garden compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Altamonte Springs | Winter Garden |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,550 | $1,675 |
| Median 3BR House Price | $325,000 | $390,000 |
🏆 Winner: Altamonte Springs. Housing costs an estimated 10-20% less in Altamonte Springs compared to Winter Garden, a savings of $150-$200 per month in rent for a typical apartment.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs also factor heavily into monthly budgets. In Altamonte Springs, expect to pay around $180 per month for a 1,000 sq ft apartment, including electricity, water, and garbage.
Winter Garden utility costs run slightly higher, averaging $210 monthly, due to higher water and wastewater fees. Both cities experience hot summers and mild winters, with similar energy usage patterns.
🏆 Winner: Altamonte Springs edges out Winter Garden by about $30 per month in utility costs for comparable homes.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are fairly similar between the two Orlando suburbs. A gallon of milk averages $3.50 in both cities, with bread around $2.80 a loaf. Eating out costs a bit more in Winter Garden, with a typical fast food meal running $9 vs $8 in Altamonte Springs.
🏆 Winner: Altamonte Springs has a slight edge of 5-10% lower costs for groceries and dining out compared to Winter Garden.
4. Taxes and Fees
Florida has no state income tax, so you’ll pay the same in either city. However, Winter Garden has higher property taxes of 1.08% vs Altamonte Springs’ rate of 0.95%.
For a $350,000 home, that’s a difference of $455 per year. Some neighborhoods in Winter Garden also have HOA fees up to $100 per month, while they are less common in Altamonte Springs.
🏆 Winner: Altamonte Springs for its lower property taxes and fewer neighborhoods with HOA fees.
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Altamonte Springs | Winter Garden |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent) | $1,550 | $1,675 |
| Utilities | $180 | $210 |
| Groceries | $400 | $440 |
| Transportation | $60 | $60 |
| Taxes (Property) | 0.95% | 1.08% |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $550 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,690 | $2,935 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Altamonte Springs is more affordable, Winter Garden offers a quainter downtown with more walkability. Altamonte Springs has better access to I-4 for commuters. Winter Garden averages about 2°F warmer than Altamonte Springs year-round.
Altamonte Springs is better for: Budget-conscious families, professionals who commute via I-4
Winter Garden suits: Those who value a walkable town center and don’t mind paying a bit more
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Is Altamonte Springs more affordable than Winter Garden?
Yes, Altamonte Springs is an estimated 10% cheaper than Winter Garden, primarily due to lower housing, utility, and tax costs.
Which city has lower rent?
Altamonte Springs has lower apartment rents, with a median 2BR renting for $1,550 vs $1,675 in Winter Garden.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Altamonte Springs has lower home prices and property taxes. A typical 3BR house costs $325,000 in Altamonte Springs compared to $390,000 in Winter Garden.
8. Conclusion
While both Altamonte Springs and Winter Garden provide a high quality of life, Altamonte Springs comes out ahead in affordability. Housing costs an estimated 10-20% less, with lower utility bills and property taxes as well.
Budget-conscious households and commuters will likely prefer Altamonte Springs, while those willing to spend a bit more for Winter Garden’s walkable town center may find it worth the premium.
Carefully weigh the tradeoffs that matter most to you. For more insights, check out these sample monthly budgets for Altamonte Springs or dive deeper with this cost of living overview and monthly budget guide for Altamonte Springs in 2025.