Ocoee, FL vs. Kissimmee, FL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Many people assume Kissimmee is more affordable than Ocoee due to its distance from Orlando – but is that really true? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Ocoee and Kissimmee. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in Ocoee vs Kissimmee in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Here’s how typical housing costs compare between the two cities:
| Housing Type | Ocoee | Kissimmee |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,350 |
| 3BR Home Mortgage | $1,850 | $1,750 |
🏆 Winner: Kissimmee. Housing costs are about 5-7% lower in Kissimmee compared to Ocoee.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
In Ocoee, expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, water, and sewer for a 2BR apartment. Costs are about 10% higher in the summer due to air conditioning usage.
Kissimmee utility costs are very similar, averaging $175 per month. Both cities offer off-peak pricing plans to help manage costs. For a full breakdown, read How Much It Costs to Live in Ocoee Each Month.
🏆 Winner: Kissimmee, but only by a small margin.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are nearly identical in Ocoee and Kissimmee. Expect to spend about $350-400 per month for a family of two adults. Eating out is also comparable, with a typical meal for two costing $35-45 at a mid-range restaurant.
🏆 Winner: Tie. There is no significant difference in food costs.
4. Taxes and Fees
Ocoee has a slightly lower property tax rate of 0.52% compared to Kissimmee’s 0.58%. However, Kissimmee offers a $50,000 homestead exemption. HOA fees are common in both cities, typically ranging from $200-350 per month.
🏆 Winner: Ocoee. The lower property tax rate gives Ocoee a slight edge.
Cost of Living in Ocoee vs Kissimmee: Summary
| Category | Ocoee | Kissimmee |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,450 – $1,850 | $1,350 – $1,750 |
| Utilities | $180 | $175 |
| Groceries | $350 – $400 | $350 – $400 |
| Transportation | $60 – $80 | $50 – $70 |
| Taxes | 0.52% property tax | 0.58% property tax |
| Misc | $200 – $350 | $200 – $350 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,240 – $2,860 | $2,125 – $2,745 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Kissimmee is slightly cheaper overall, Ocoee offers more space and lower-density living. Ocoee averages 500 fewer people per square mile than Kissimmee. However, Kissimmee has better walkability and more public transit options.
Both cities have hot, humid summers and mild winters. For a full overview, see our Cost of Living in Ocoee, FL: 2025 Breakdown.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Ocoee more affordable than Kissimmee? Kissimmee has a slight edge in housing and utilities, but the difference is small. Ocoee makes up for it with lower property taxes.
- Which city has lower rent? Kissimmee rents are about 5-7% lower than Ocoee on average.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Home prices and mortgage costs are lower in Kissimmee, but Ocoee’s lower property tax rate narrows the gap for homeowners.
Conclusion
Kissimmee comes out a few percentage points cheaper than Ocoee overall. However, the difference is small enough that other factors like commute, schools, and lifestyle fit should guide your decision too.
Budget-conscious young professionals may prefer Kissimmee for its lower housing costs and walkability. Families looking for more space may find Ocoee a better value when all costs are considered. To compare other Central Florida cities, check out our cost of living breakdowns for popular cities near Orlando.