Maitland, FL vs. Kissimmee, FL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Imagine two families, the Garcias and the Johnsons, considering a move to either Maitland or Kissimmee, Florida. They’re comparing expenses line by line:
- Rent for a 3-bedroom house? $2,100 in Maitland, $1,800 in Kissimmee.
- Monthly electric bill in July? Around $180 in Maitland, $210 in Kissimmee.
- Weekly groceries for a family of four? $220 in Maitland, $200 in Kissimmee.
Every dollar adds up. This cost of living comparison between Maitland and Kissimmee is perfect for families like the Garcias and Johnsons who are relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone weighing the real-life cost of living in these two Florida cities in 2025. Let’s dive into the details.
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest line item in a monthly budget. Here’s how Maitland and Kissimmee stack up for typical housing options:
| Housing Type | Maitland | Kissimmee |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,600 | $1,400 |
| 3BR House Rent | $2,100 | $1,800 |
| 3BR House Median Price | $450,000 | $380,000 |
🏆 Winner: Kissimmee. Housing costs across the board are about 10-15% lower in Kissimmee compared to Maitland.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs can vary based on home size, energy usage, and season. According to local data:
- In Maitland, expect to pay around $180/month for electricity for a 3BR home in the summer, dropping to around $120 in the winter.
- In Kissimmee, that same 3BR home would average $210/month for electricity in the summer and $140 in the winter.
Both cities offer optional time-of-use plans that can lower bills by shifting usage to off-peak hours.
🏆 Winner: Maitland. While the seasonal difference is similar, Maitland edges out Kissimmee by about $30/month on electric bills.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
For groceries and everyday items, costs are quite comparable between Maitland and Kissimmee. A gallon of milk averages $3.50 in both cities, while a loaf of bread is around $2.70.
Eating out is also similar. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant is about $14 in both places, while a 3-course dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant averages $60.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Day-to-day expenses are nearly identical in Maitland and Kissimmee.
Taxes and Fees
Both Maitland and Kissimmee have a property tax rate of around 0.83%. For a $400,000 home, that equates to $3,320 per year.
However, some neighborhoods in Maitland have HOA fees that can add $200-300 per month. These often include amenities like community pools, landscaping, and trash service.
🏆 Winner: Kissimmee. With fewer neighborhoods charging high HOA dues, Kissimmee gets the nod here.
Cost Summary
| Category | Maitland | Kissimmee |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR Rent) | $2,100 | $1,800 |
| Utilities | $180 | $210 |
| Groceries | $800 | $800 |
| Transportation | $60 | $50 |
| Taxes (Property Tax) | $277 | $277 |
| Miscellaneous | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,917 | $3,637 |
*Based on a $400,000 home value. Actual totals will vary. All figures are pre-tax monthly estimates.
Lifestyle Fit
While Kissimmee is a bit more affordable, Maitland offers a few key lifestyle advantages:
- Maitland averages 5°F cooler than Kissimmee in the peak of summer, thanks to more tree cover and less urban heat island effect.
- Maitland has more walkable neighborhoods and a quaint downtown, while Kissimmee is more car-dependent.
However, Kissimmee has the edge for those who prefer a slightly slower pace and more space between neighbors. Both cities offer relatively easy access to Orlando’s attractions and job centers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Maitland more affordable than Kissimmee?
A: Overall, Kissimmee is estimated to be about 5-8% cheaper than Maitland, primarily due to lower housing and HOA costs.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Kissimmee has lower rent, with a 3BR house renting for around $1,800/month compared to $2,100/month in Maitland.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Median home prices in Kissimmee are about 15% lower than in Maitland, around $380,000 vs $450,000 for a typical 3BR.
The Bottom Line
For those prioritizing affordability, Kissimmee comes out ahead in this 2025 cost of living comparison. A household moving from Maitland to Kissimmee might save $300 or more per month on core expenses.
However, Maitland remains appealing for those who value walkability, leafier neighborhoods, and a charming downtown. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your specific budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
Considering other Florida cities? Check out our Sample Monthly Budgets for Maitland in 2025 or dive deeper with our full Cost of Living in Maitland breakdown covering housing, food, utilities, transportation, taxes, and more.