Ocoee is considered moderately affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $1,750 and utility costs slightly above the national average due to higher air conditioning usage.
For a couple living comfortably in Ocoee, FL in 2025, expect to need a gross monthly income of around $4,500 to cover housing, utilities, groceries, and other typical expenses. Here’s a closer look at the major costs:
Housing Costs in Ocoee
Housing options in Ocoee range from apartments and condos to single-family homes. Typical costs in 2025:
- Renting a 2-bedroom apartment: $1,600 – $2,000/month
- Buying a 3-bedroom house: $350,000 – $450,000
Newer developments on the west side of Ocoee tend to have higher prices and more HOA fees, while older neighborhoods closer to downtown offer more affordable options. For example:
| Neighborhood | 2-Bed Apt Rent | 3-Bed House Price |
|---|---|---|
| Westyn Bay | $1,900/mo | $425,000 |
| Forest Lake | $1,650/mo | $375,000 |
HOA fees, when applicable, typically add $200 – $400 per month. About 60% of Ocoee neighborhoods have an HOA.
Utility and Energy Costs
Utility costs in Ocoee are 8-12% higher than the national average, mainly due to increased air conditioning needs. Expect the following monthly costs:
- Electricity: $120 – $180
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $80 – $120
- Natural Gas: $30 – $50
- Internet: $60 – $80
Electricity bills often spike in the summer months when cooling needs are highest. Installing solar panels or a smart thermostat can help manage these seasonal costs.
Groceries and Food
Grocery costs in Ocoee are close to the national average. Expect to spend around $350 – $450 per person per month on groceries and household items.
A typical basket of goods:
- Gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $2.75
- Dozen eggs: $2.25
- Pound of chicken: $4.00
Dining out costs $12 – $20 per person for a casual meal, or $30 – $50 for a nicer restaurant. Budgeting $200 – $300 per person monthly for restaurants is common.
Taxes and Fees
Ocoee’s property tax rate is around 1.1% of assessed value. For a $400,000 home, that equates to $4,400 per year or $367 per month.
Florida has no state income tax, but the combined state and local sales tax rate in Ocoee is 6.5%. Vehicle registration fees are $225 – $300 annually depending on vehicle type.
Monthly Budget Summary
| Expense | Single | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent) | $1,400 | $1,750 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $250 | $350 | $450 |
| Groceries | $400 | $800 | $1,400 |
| Transportation | $200 | $350 | $500 |
| Other | $500 | $750 | $1,000 |
| Total Monthly | $2,750 | $4,000 | $5,550 |
Note: All figures are gross monthly amounts (pre-tax income). Actual budgets vary based on lifestyle, family size, and housing choices.
Lifestyle Considerations
Living in Ocoee offers a suburban lifestyle with relatively easy access to Orlando. Commute times to downtown Orlando average 25-35 minutes. Many residents work in hospitality, healthcare, or other service industries.
Newer homes on the outskirts provide more space but longer commutes. Older homes near the city center are more walkable and convenient but may have less square footage. Ocoee has several parks and a historic downtown with local businesses.
To live comfortably, a single person needs to make around $33,000 annually ($2,750/month), while a family of four will want to aim for at least $66,000 per year ($5,500/month) in gross income.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ocoee cheaper than Orlando?
Yes, Ocoee is generally 10-15% less expensive than Orlando proper, especially when it comes to housing. However, commute costs can add up for those working downtown.
Are utilities expensive in Ocoee?
Utilities in Ocoee are slightly higher than the national average, mainly due to above-average air conditioning usage. Expect to pay 8-12% more than in other parts of the country.
How much do I need to make to live in Ocoee?
To live comfortably, aim for a gross (pre-tax) income of at least $2,750 per month ($33,000/year) for a single person, $4,000 monthly ($48,000/year) for a couple, or $5,500 per month ($66,000/year) for a family of four.
What is the sales tax rate in Ocoee?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Ocoee is 6.5% as of 2025. Florida does not have a state income tax.
Is Ocoee a good place to raise a family?
Ocoee can be a good place for families, offering a suburban lifestyle, local parks, and decent schools. However, housing costs and longer commute times are factors to consider.