St Petersburg, FL vs. Brandon, FL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Deciding between St Petersburg and Brandon, Florida? This cost of living comparison breaks down the key differences in housing, utilities, groceries and more between these two Tampa Bay area cities in 2025. Whether you’re relocating for work, buying a home, or renting an apartment, see which city best fits your budget.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and home prices compare in St Petersburg vs Brandon:
| Housing Type | St Petersburg | Brandon |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,650 | $1,450 |
| Median 3BR House Price | $450,000 | $375,000 |
🏆 Winner: Brandon. Housing costs around 12-20% less in Brandon compared to St Pete.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Expect similar utility bills in both cities, with summer A/C usage driving up electric costs. Typical monthly utility costs:
- Electricity: $120-180
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $80-100
- Internet: $60-80
🏆 Winner: Tie. No major difference in utility costs between the two cities.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries and everyday items cost about the same in St Pete and Brandon. Publix is the dominant grocery chain in both. Eating out is 5-10% cheaper in Brandon.
🏆 Winner: Brandon, but only slightly. Cheaper restaurants give it the edge.
4. Taxes and Fees
Florida has no state income tax. Property taxes are also similar:
- St Petersburg: 0.98% average property tax rate
- Brandon: 1.02% average property tax rate
Brandon has more HOAs and CDD fees in newer subdivisions. St Pete has higher water/sewer fees.
🏆 Winner: St Petersburg. Lower property taxes and fewer added fees.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | St Petersburg | Brandon |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,650 | $1,450 |
| Utilities | $280 | $280 |
| Groceries | $400 | $380 |
| Transportation | $200 | $200 |
| Taxes | $370 | $390 |
| Misc | $250 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,150 | $2,950 |
Note: All income and cost figures are expressed in gross monthly amounts (pre-tax).
6. Lifestyle Fit
St Petersburg offers a vibrant downtown, walkable neighborhoods, and quick beach access. Trade-offs include:
- Less space for the money – housing costs more
- More traffic and noise, especially in downtown areas
- Older housing stock on average
Brandon provides:
- More affordable suburban living, with newer homes
- Easy access to Tampa job centers via I-75
- Quieter lifestyle, but fewer walkable areas
St Pete averages 2°F cooler summer highs than inland Brandon.
7. FAQ
Q: Is St Petersburg more affordable than Brandon?
A: No, Brandon has a lower overall cost of living, mainly due to cheaper housing. See our full cost of living breakdown for St Petersburg.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Rent prices are around 12% lower in Brandon. A typical 2BR apartment rents for $1,450/month vs $1,650 in St Pete.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Brandon. The median price for a 3BR house is about $375,000 in Brandon compared to $450,000 in St Petersburg.
8. Conclusion
St Petersburg and Brandon offer two different lifestyles in the Tampa Bay area. St Pete is ideal for those wanting a vibrant, walkable city with great amenities – but it comes at a cost. Brandon appeals to families looking for affordable suburban living and easy access to Tampa.
Ultimately, your budget and priorities will determine which city is the best fit. Be sure to compare sample monthly budgets for St Petersburg and run the numbers for your own situation.
Considering other parts of Florida? Check out our cost of living comparisons for Tampa, Clearwater, Sarasota and more.