Plant City, FL vs. Brandon, FL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Many people assume Brandon is more affordable than Plant City, but is that really true? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Plant City and Brandon, FL. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in Plant City vs Brandon in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Plant City and Brandon stack up:
| Housing Type | Plant City | Brandon |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,350 | $1,550 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $325,000 | $375,000 |
🏆 Winner: Plant City. Rent and home prices tend to be 10-15% lower in Plant City compared to Brandon.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to pay around $150-200 per month for electricity, water, and gas for a 2BR apartment. Costs will be higher in the summer due to air conditioning.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable in Plant City and Brandon.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries and everyday items cost about the same in Plant City and Brandon. A gallon of milk averages $3.50 in both cities, while a loaf of bread is around $2.75. Eating out is also similar, with a basic meal at a casual restaurant costing $12-15 per person.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily living costs are nearly identical.
4. Taxes and Fees
Florida has no state income tax, so that’s one less expense to worry about. However, sales tax is 7% in Plant City and 8.5% in Brandon. Property taxes are also slightly higher in Brandon at 1.2% vs 1.1% in Plant City. HOA fees are common in both cities, typically ranging from $200-400 per month.
🏆 Winner: Plant City. Lower sales and property tax rates give Plant City a slight edge.
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Plant City | Brandon |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $1,350 | $1,550 |
| Utilities | $175 | $175 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $75 | $60 |
| Taxes & Fees | $300 | $350 |
| Misc | $200 | $200 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,500 | $2,735 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Plant City is more affordable overall, Brandon offers some lifestyle advantages:
- Brandon is closer to Tampa, meaning shorter commutes for some
- Brandon has more public transportation options
- Plant City is a bit more spacious and less densely developed
Brandon averages 2°F warmer than Plant City in the summer months.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Plant City more affordable than Brandon?
A: Yes, Plant City has lower housing costs and taxes, making it about 10% cheaper overall.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Plant City. Typical rent for a 2BR apartment is around $1,350, compared to $1,550 in Brandon.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Plant City. The median price for a 3BR home is about $325,000 in Plant City vs $375,000 in Brandon.
8. Conclusion
For most people, Plant City offers a lower cost of living than Brandon, primarily due to more affordable housing. A household moving from Brandon to Plant City might save $200-300 per month on living costs.
However, Brandon can still be a great fit for those who prioritize a shorter Tampa commute or want more public transit options. Ultimately, both cities provide a relatively affordable suburban lifestyle.
Budgeting for your specific needs? Check out our guides on monthly budgets in Plant City and detailed cost of living in Plant City in 2025.