New Port Richey, FL vs. Brandon, FL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Tampa Bay area? This article compares the cost of living between two popular suburbs: New Port Richey and Brandon. Whether you’re relocating for work, buying a home, or renting, we’ll break down the key expenses to help you decide which city fits your lifestyle and budget in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare between New Port Richey and Brandon:
| Housing Type | New Port Richey | Brandon |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $325,000 | $375,000 |
| Mortgage Payment (20% down) | $1,550/mo | $1,790/mo |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,400/mo | $1,650/mo |
🏆 Winner: New Port Richey. You can expect to pay about 15% less on housing in New Port Richey compared to Brandon.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are fairly similar between the two cities, with slight differences based on home size and energy usage:
- In New Port Richey, expect to pay around $180/month for electricity, water, and gas for a 1,500 sq ft home.
- Brandon utility bills average closer to $200/month for the same size home.
- Both cities see 10-15% higher A/C bills in the hot summer months compared to winter.
🏆 Winner: New Port Richey, but only by a slight margin. Utility costs are comparable between the two cities.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries, dining out, and everyday purchases cost about the same in New Port Richey and Brandon. Expect to budget around $350-$450 per person for groceries and household items.
One notable difference: New Port Richey has more local, independent restaurants with entrees under $15, while Brandon has a higher concentration of pricier chain restaurants.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily living costs are nearly identical.
Taxes and Fees
Florida has no state income tax, so you’ll keep more of your paycheck in either city. However, there are a few differences in local taxes and fees:
- Property taxes are about 0.5% lower in New Port Richey than Brandon
- Many New Port Richey neighborhoods have HOA fees that include lawn care and amenities
- Brandon has slightly higher sales tax on restaurant meals and prepared food
🏆 Winner: New Port Richey. Lower property taxes can add up to decent savings for homeowners.
Cost Summary
| Expense Category | New Port Richey | Brandon |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,550 | $1,790 |
| Utilities | $180 | $200 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $300 | $250 |
| Misc | $500 | $550 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,930 | $3,190 |
Lifestyle Fit
Cost is just one factor in choosing where to live. Also consider:
- Commute: Brandon is closer to major employers in Tampa, while New Port Richey means a longer drive
- Suburban feel: Both cities are car-dependent, but New Port Richey has a quainter downtown
- Beaches: New Port Richey is just 20 minutes from Gulf Coast beaches vs. 45 minutes from Brandon
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is New Port Richey more affordable than Brandon?
A: Yes, the cost of living is about 10% lower in New Port Richey, mainly due to cheaper housing.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Rents are typically $200-$300 less per month in New Port Richey for a comparable apartment.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: New Port Richey home prices are roughly 15% lower than Brandon, meaning more house for your budget.
The Bottom Line
While New Port Richey has a clear edge on housing costs, Brandon offers shorter commutes and easier access to big city amenities in Tampa. Your ideal choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and what you value most.
For more insights, check out these sample monthly budgets for living in New Port Richey. You can also dive deeper into specific costs like groceries, utilities, and taxes in our New Port Richey overview.
Considering other Florida cities? Browse our full library of cost of living breakdowns to compare other popular destinations in the Sunshine State.