Apopka, FL vs. Clermont, FL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Imagine two families, the Garcias and the Robinsons, considering a move to the Orlando suburbs in 2025. The Garcias, eyeing a 2-bedroom apartment in Apopka, find options around $1,600 per month. Meanwhile, the Robinsons spot similar rentals in Clermont for $1,450.
When the families meet up to compare, they go line by line:
Rent: Advantage Clermont, by $150
Utilities: Dead even at $180
Groceries: Apopka squeaks ahead, $500 to $525
“But don’t forget gas,” Mr. Garcia points out. “My commute from Apopka would save me $40 a month.”
Welcome to the cost-of-living faceoff: Apopka vs Clermont. For families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of these two Orlando suburbs in 2025, we’re here to help you run the numbers and find the best fit.
Housing Costs: Apopka vs Clermont
Let’s start with the biggie: housing. Whether renting or buying, you’ll generally find lower prices in Clermont.
| Housing Type | Apopka | Clermont |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $385,000 | $350,000 |
| Typical Mortgage | $1,950 | $1,775 |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,600 | $1,450 |
🏆 Winner: Clermont. You’ll save around $175/month on a typical mortgage in Clermont, or $150 on rent.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, water, and gas in either city.
“In summer, bump that up to $220 or more,” notes Carlos Rivera, an expert in Florida utility rates. “But in winter, you might drop as low as $140.”
Both cities offer optional off-peak plans and energy-saving programs through the major providers, Duke Energy and SECO.
🏆 Winner: Tie. No major difference in utility costs between Apopka and Clermont.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Feeding a family in Apopka will run you about $500 per month, assuming a mix of grocery shopping and occasional meals out. In Clermont, budget more like $525.
That lines up with the average monthly expenses in Apopka, FL, where groceries typically make up 10-12% of a household budget.
For other common purchases like gas, clothes, and entertainment, costs are nearly identical. Fill-ups might be 5-10 cents cheaper per gallon in Apopka.
🏆 Winner: Apopka, but just barely. You might save $20-30 a month on food and gas.
Taxes and Fees
Florida’s lack of state income tax is a huge draw. But cities and counties can still add on their own property taxes and service fees.
In Apopka, expect property taxes around 0.9% of your assessed home value annually. If your house is worth $385K, that’s $3,465 per year or $289 per month.
Clermont’s property tax rate is a bit lower at 0.75%, so the same value home would owe $2,888 per year or $241 monthly.
Both cities charge similar fees for utilities, parking, and permits. And if you live in an HOA neighborhood, factor in $100-300 per month extra.
🏆 Winner: Clermont. With lower property taxes, Clermont saves homeowners around $50/month compared to Apopka.
Full Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Apopka | Clermont |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Mortgage) | $1,950 | $1,775 |
| Utilities | $180 | $180 |
| Groceries | $500 | $525 |
| Transportation | $350 | $375 |
| Healthcare | $450 | $450 |
| Taxes | $289 | $241 |
| Miscellaneous | $350 | $350 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,069 | $3,896 |
* Estimated monthly costs based on a pre-tax household income around $85,000. Your actual budget may vary. See our full cost of living breakdown for Apopka for more details.
Lifestyle Fit: Apopka vs Clermont
Of course, choosing where to live isn’t just about cost. Think about factors like:
- Commute: Apopka offers easier access to Orlando and major highways
- Schools: Both have solid public schools, with a slight edge to Clermont
- Vibe: Apopka feels a bit more suburban, while Clermont has more of a small-town feel
- Nature: Clermont sits right on Lake Minneola, with ample boating and fishing
FAQ: Apopka vs Clermont
Q: Is Apopka more affordable than Clermont?
A: Overall, Clermont comes out slightly cheaper, mainly due to lower housing costs. But Apopka has minor advantages in groceries and gas.
Q: Which city has lower rent prices?
A: Clermont. Expect to pay around $150 less per month for a typical 2-bedroom apartment compared to Apopka.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home, Apopka or Clermont?
A: Again, Clermont takes the lead. Between lower home prices and property taxes, you’ll save about $225 per month on the typical mortgage in Clermont vs Apopka.
The Bottom Line
So, who wins the cost of living battle between Apopka and Clermont? It depends on your situation.
If budget is your #1 priority and you don’t mind a slightly longer commute, Clermont offers the best value. You’ll save on housing, the biggest slice of most budgets.
But if you work in Orlando and want the easiest access to big-city amenities, Apopka might be worth the small premium. You’ll make up some of the difference in cheaper groceries and gas.
Ultimately, both Apopka and Clermont provide affordable options for enjoying Florida suburban life. For more cost of living comparisons, check out our other breakdowns for popular Orlando suburbs and cities across the Sunshine State.