Ocoee, FL vs. Orlando, FL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which city gives you more for your money – Ocoee or Orlando? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison to help families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone weighing the real-life expenses of living in Ocoee vs Orlando in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage payments compare in Ocoee and Orlando:
| Housing Type | Ocoee | Orlando |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Rent) | $1,450 | $1,650 |
| 3BR House (Mortgage) | $1,900 | $2,200 |
🏆 Winner: Ocoee. A household moving from Orlando to Ocoee might save $400/month on housing alone.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are a major expense that can vary by city. In Ocoee, expect to pay around $180/month for electricity, water, and sewer for a 2BR apartment. Costs are about 10% higher in Orlando, averaging $200/month.
Both cities have similar climates, so summer A/C bills and winter heating costs are comparable. Check out programs like OUC’s Power Pass in Orlando for potential savings.
🏆 Winner: Ocoee. You’ll likely pay a bit less for utilities living in Ocoee. For a full breakdown, read Cost of Living in Ocoee, FL: Full 2025 Breakdown.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Budget around $400/month for a single person or $1,100/month for a family of four in either Ocoee or Orlando. Eating out is also comparable, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant running about $50 for two people.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Day-to-day expenses are nearly identical in Ocoee and Orlando.
4. Taxes and Fees
Both cities have a sales tax rate of 6.5%. Property taxes are assessed by Orange County. Expect to pay around 1% of your home’s assessed value annually. So for a $300K house, budget $3,000/year or $250/month.
One difference: Ocoee has slightly lower utility taxes and service fees than Orlando. For example, the stormwater fee in Ocoee is $6/month vs. $9/month in Orlando.
🏆 Winner: Ocoee, but only by a small margin. Taxes and fees are quite close between the two cities.
5. Cost of Living Summary
| Expense | Ocoee | Orlando |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR Mortgage) | $1,900 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $180 | $200 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $300 | $250 |
| Taxes & Fees | $350 | $380 |
| Misc | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,630 | $3,930 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Ocoee offers more space for your money, with larger homes and yards than comparably-priced options in Orlando. However, Orlando has better walkability and public transit. Traffic and noise are worse in Orlando too.
The climate is similar, as the cities are only about 13 miles apart. But Orlando averages 2°F warmer temperatures year-round.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ocoee more affordable than Orlando?
A: Yes, the cost of living is about 8% lower in Ocoee compared to Orlando, mainly due to cheaper housing.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Ocoee has lower rent, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $1,450/month vs. $1,650/month in Orlando.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Ocoee has lower home prices. A 3BR house mortgage averages $1,900/month in Ocoee compared to $2,200/month in Orlando.
8. Conclusion
Overall, Ocoee offers a lower cost of living than Orlando, primarily thanks to more affordable housing. Utilities, taxes and daily expenses are also a bit cheaper in Ocoee.
Budget-conscious households, especially families looking for more space, may prefer Ocoee. But Orlando can be a better fit for singles and young professionals who prioritize walkability and don’t mind paying a bit more.
Considering other cities in Florida? Check out our guide to how much it costs to live in Ocoee each month or compare the full cost of living in Ocoee for 2025.