In 2025, the median cost of living for a couple in Kissimmee, FL is approximately $4,100 per month before taxes. For a realistic look at monthly expenses, here’s what you can expect when budgeting for life in this Orlando suburb.
Housing Costs in Kissimmee
Housing will likely be your biggest expense living in Kissimmee. As of 2025, the median rent for a 2-bedroom apartment is around $1,650 per month. If you’re looking to purchase a home, a typical 3-bedroom house has a median mortgage payment in the range of $1,900 to $2,300 monthly.
Many neighborhoods in Kissimmee have homeowners associations (HOAs), which can add $200-400 to your monthly housing costs. While not always required, living in an HOA community is very common for access to shared amenities and services.
- Median 2BR Apartment Rent: $1,650/month
- Typical 3BR House Mortgage: $1,900 – $2,300/month
- Common HOA Fees: $200 – $400/month
Utilities and Energy Bills
Utility costs in Kissimmee are fairly moderate compared to the national average. Expect to budget around $180 per month for electricity for a 2-bedroom apartment. Water, sewer, and trash are often included in rent but if billed separately, plan for $60-80 monthly. Natural gas, used mainly for heating and cooking, runs about $40-50 per month.
Keep in mind that electricity costs spike in the hot summer months as air conditioning usage soars. Many residents report their cooling costs doubling from June through September.
| Utility | Typical Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $180 |
| Water/Sewer/Trash | $60 – $80 |
| Natural Gas | $40 – $50 |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Food costs in Kissimmee are on par with the U.S. average. Plan to budget around $400 per month for groceries for a single person, or $1,000 for a family of four. This assumes cooking most meals at home.
If you dine out regularly, allocate an extra $200-500 monthly per person. A typical fast casual meal in Kissimmee costs $12-15, while a nicer dinner for two averages $50-70 including tip.
Don’t forget to factor in household goods, toiletries, and cleaning supplies, which can add $150-200 to your monthly shopping bill for a small family.
Taxes and Fees
Florida has no state income tax, which helps offset other costs. However, the sales tax rate in Kissimmee is 7.5%, higher than the U.S. average of 6.2%.
If you own a home, the property tax rate in Osceola County is 0.74%, slightly below the national median. For a $350,000 house, annual property taxes would be approximately $2,590.
Vehicle owners must pay annual registration renewal and emissions testing fees, which total about $225 per year for a newer passenger car. Kissimmee residents spend an average of $1,900 annually on car insurance.
Monthly Cost of Living Summary
| Expense Category | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $1,300 | $1,650 | $2,100 |
| Utilities | $250 | $300 | $450 |
| Groceries | $400 | $700 | $1,000 |
| Transportation | $300 | $500 | $800 |
| Healthcare | $250 | $500 | $800 |
| Other Necessities | $250 | $400 | $600 |
| Monthly Total (Gross) | $2,750 | $4,050 | $5,750 |
To live comfortably in Kissimmee, aim for a monthly gross (pre-tax) income of at least $2,800 for a single person, $4,100 for a couple, or $5,800 for a family of four. These figures assume a modest lifestyle without significant luxuries.
Lifestyle Considerations
Kissimmee offers a mix of urban convenience and suburban calm, with most commutes to Downtown Orlando taking 30-40 minutes. Many neighborhoods feature community pools, parks, and walking trails.
Homes tend to be a bit more affordable than in Orlando proper, with more space for the money. However, older homes may lack energy-efficient features, leading to higher utility bills.
Access to healthcare is decent, with AdventHealth Kissimmee and several medical plazas serving the area. Osceola Regional Medical Center is the nearest major hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do you need to make to live comfortably in Kissimmee?
For a couple, aim for a combined gross income of at least $4,100 per month ($49,200/year) for a comfortable lifestyle in Kissimmee. Families and those with greater expenses will need more.
Is Kissimmee cheaper than Orlando?
Yes, the cost of living in Kissimmee is about 5% lower than Orlando as of 2025, mainly due to more affordable housing. Expect to pay 10-15% less for an equivalent home or apartment.
What salary do you need to buy a house in Kissimmee?
To afford the median Kissimmee home price of $350,000, you’ll need a household income of roughly $90,000, assuming a 10% down payment and 28% debt-to-income ratio.
How much are property taxes in Kissimmee?
The property tax rate in Kissimmee is 0.74% of assessed value. For a $350,000 home, expect to pay around $2,590 per year in property taxes.
What is the sales tax rate in Kissimmee?
As of 2025, the total sales tax rate in Kissimmee is 7.5%, which includes both the Florida state sales tax of 6% and a 1.5% Osceola County surtax.
Is Kissimmee a good place to retire?
Kissimmee can be a good retirement spot for those seeking warm weather, low taxes, and proximity to amenities. However, healthcare costs are a bit above average for seniors.
How much does childcare cost in Kissimmee?
Childcare for a young child averages $800-1,000 per month at a licensed daycare center in Kissimmee as of 2025. Costs are slightly lower for home-based providers.
What are utility bills like in Kissimmee?
For a 2-bedroom apartment, expect to pay around $180/month for electricity, $60-80 for water/sewer/trash, and $40-50 for natural gas, if applicable. Note that A/C costs spike in summer.