St Cloud, FL vs. Orlando, FL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which city gives you more for your money – St Cloud or Orlando? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between St Cloud and Orlando, perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life costs of these two Central Florida cities in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare between St Cloud and Orlando:
| Housing Type | St Cloud | Orlando |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $325,000 | $385,000 |
| Mortgage Payment (20% down) | $1,295/mo | $1,534/mo |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450/mo | $1,750/mo |
🏆 Winner: St Cloud. Housing costs, both for buying and renting, are more affordable in St Cloud compared to Orlando. A household moving from Orlando to St Cloud might save $300-400 per month on housing alone.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities, but there are some differences to note:
- Electricity rates are about 5% lower in St Cloud vs Orlando, according to data from local utility providers. For a typical household using 1,000 kWh per month, that equates to around $6-8 in monthly savings.
- Water and sewer costs are comparable, averaging $60-80 per month for a family of four in both cities.
- High summer temperatures mean air conditioning is essential. Expect cooling costs to spike June through September. Enrolling in off-peak usage plans can help manage summer bills.
🏆 Winner: St Cloud, but only slightly. The typical household might save $75-100 annually on utilities in St Cloud compared to Orlando.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are very similar between St Cloud and Orlando. Expect to budget around $350-450 per month for groceries for a couple, or $700-900 for a family of four. Eating out is also comparable, with a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averaging $50-60 in both cities.
For other common expenses like gas, clothing, and entertainment, costs are nearly identical. Sales tax is 7.5% in St Cloud and 7.0% in Orlando as of 2025.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Day-to-day living costs are practically the same in St Cloud and Orlando.
4. Taxes and Fees
Florida has no state income tax, so that’s one less thing to budget for in either city. However, some other taxes and fees to consider:
- Property Taxes: St Cloud’s property tax rate is around 1.1%, while Orlando’s is 1.3%. On a $350,000 home, that’s a difference of about $58 per month.
- HOA Fees: Both cities have many communities with HOAs. In St Cloud, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash service, ranging from $100-300 monthly. Orlando HOAs are similar, typically $150-350 per month.
- Vehicle Registration Fees: Identical statewide. Budget about $225 annually for a new vehicle, or $50-75 for renewals.
🏆 Winner: St Cloud. Lower property tax rates give St Cloud a slight edge, potentially saving homeowners a few hundred dollars per year compared to Orlando.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | St Cloud | Orlando |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Mortgage or Rent) | $1,295 – $1,450 | $1,534 – $1,750 |
| Utilities | $280 | $300 |
| Groceries & Dining Out | $500 | $500 |
| Transportation & Gas | $200 | $200 |
| Taxes & Fees | $300 | $350 |
| Misc Expenses | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,975 – $3,130 | $3,284 – $3,500 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While St Cloud offers savings on major costs like housing and utilities, Orlando has some lifestyle advantages:
- Orlando has more public transportation options, with an extensive bus system and the SunRail commuter train. In St Cloud, most people rely on driving.
- Orlando offers a wider variety of dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions. However, St Cloud’s small-town feel is appealing to many.
- Orlando averages 2-3°F warmer than St Cloud in the summer months. But both cities enjoy mild winters.
7. FAQs
Is St Cloud more affordable than Orlando?
Yes, St Cloud is generally more affordable than Orlando, primarily due to lower housing costs. The typical household can expect to save around $300-500 per month living in St Cloud vs Orlando.
Which city has lower rent?
St Cloud has lower rental costs than Orlando. As of 2025, the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment is around $1,450 in St Cloud compared to $1,750 in Orlando.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Median home prices are about $60,000 lower in St Cloud than Orlando. Combined with slightly lower property tax rates, St Cloud is the more affordable option for homebuyers.
8. Conclusion
Overall, St Cloud offers a lower cost of living than Orlando, particularly for housing. Families looking to stretch their budget will find their money goes further in St Cloud. However, Orlando’s extra amenities and transportation options may be worth the added cost for some households.
The right choice depends on your lifestyle and priorities. Be sure to evaluate your monthly budget and review the full cost of living in St Cloud to make an informed decision. With proper planning, you can find the Central Florida city that fits your finances.