St Cloud is considered moderately affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $1,750 and utility costs slightly above the national average due to higher cooling needs.
Living in St Cloud, FL costs the average single person about $3,400 per month before taxes for a comfortable lifestyle in 2025. For a couple, budget around $4,600 gross monthly income, and $6,200/month for a family of four.
Housing Costs in St Cloud
Housing is the biggest expense for most St Cloud residents. Typical options include:
- 2-bedroom apartments: $1,600 – $2,000/month
- 3-bedroom single-family homes: $1,900 – $2,400/month to rent, $350K – $450K to buy
- 4-bedroom houses: $2,200 – $2,800/month to rent, $400K – $550K to purchase
Newer developments like Harmony on the Lakes tend to have higher prices but more amenities. Older neighborhoods near downtown offer more affordable options. Many communities have optional HOA fees of $200 – $400 per month.
For homebuyers, property taxes add about 1.1% of the assessed value annually. A $400,000 home would owe around $4,400 per year ($367/month).
Utilities and Energy Bills
Expect to pay around $180 – $250 per month for basic utilities (electricity, water, gas) for a 2-bedroom apartment in St Cloud. Larger homes may pay $300+, especially with higher summer cooling costs.
| Utility | Typical Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $100 – $150 |
| Water | $30 – $50 |
| Gas | $20 – $40 |
| Trash/Recycling | $20 – $30 |
Add another $50 – $80/month for internet service. Many homes rely on electricity for all cooling and heating.
Groceries and Food
Groceries in St Cloud cost about $350 – $500 per month for a single person, or $800 – $1,100 for a family of four. This assumes a mix of dining out and home cooking.
Some sample grocery costs:
- Gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $2.75
- Dozen eggs: $3.00
- Pound of chicken: $4.50
Dining out costs $12 – $18 per person for a basic meal, or $30 – $50 per person at nicer restaurants. Fast food meals are $8 – $12.
Transportation and Gas
Most St Cloud residents drive everywhere. Gas costs around $3.00/gallon in 2025. Commuters driving 30 miles round trip spend about $120/month on fuel.
Car insurance averages $1,500 – $2,000 per year ($125 – $167/month). Registration fees are $50 – $100 annually. Regular maintenance like oil changes adds $20 – $50/month.
Taxes and Fees
Florida has no state income tax, but sales tax in St Cloud is 7.5% on most purchases. Property taxes are around 1.1% of assessed value annually.
Many neighborhoods have HOA fees of $200 – $400 per month. This often includes community amenities and sometimes basic cable or internet.
Example Monthly Budget
| Expense | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $1,400 | $1,800 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $250 | $300 | $450 |
| Groceries & Dining Out | $500 | $800 | $1,200 |
| Transportation & Gas | $300 | $500 | $800 |
| Health Insurance | $300 | $600 | $1,000 |
| Entertainment & Misc. | $400 | $600 | $800 |
| Monthly Total (Gross) | $3,400 | $4,600 | $6,200 |
These figures are general estimates. Actual budgets vary based on lifestyle, family size, neighborhood, and spending habits. Remember, these totals are pre-tax (gross) income required.
Lifestyle and Affordability
St Cloud offers a suburban lifestyle about 30-60 minutes from downtown Orlando. Residents trade longer commutes for more affordable housing compared to closer-in suburbs.
Newer homes in master-planned communities come with amenities but higher prices and HOA fees. Older homes are cheaper but may have higher maintenance costs.
Free and low-cost recreation is available at dozens of parks, lakes, and trails. But entertainment and dining options are more limited than in Orlando proper.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do you need to make to live comfortably in St Cloud?
For a single person, aim for at least $3,400 per month ($40K/year) in gross income. Couples should budget around $4,600/month ($55K/year). Add $1,000 – $1,500/month per child for a family.
What salary do you need to buy a house in St Cloud?
To afford a typical $350,000 home with 10% down, aim for a household income of $90,000+. This factors in mortgage payments, taxes, insurance, and other expenses.
Is St Cloud cheaper than Orlando?
Yes, housing costs in St Cloud are about 20-30% lower than in Orlando on average. But commute times are longer.
Are utilities expensive in St Cloud?
Utilities in St Cloud are slightly above the national average, mainly due to higher air conditioning use. Expect to pay $180 – $300/month for a typical home.
How much is the average electric bill in St Cloud?
The average electric bill is $100 – $150/month for a 2-bedroom apartment, or $150 – $250 for a larger home. Bills are highest in summer.
What are property taxes like in St Cloud?
The property tax rate is about 1.1% of assessed value annually. For a $400,000 home, that’s $4,400 per year or $367 per month.
Is St Cloud a good place to retire?
St Cloud can be a good retirement spot for those who want an affordable suburban lifestyle with easy access to Orlando. But summers are hot and humid, and some find it too far from the city.