Winter Garden, FL vs. Clermont, FL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Groceries cost 11% less in Winter Garden compared to Clermont, making it easier for families to stretch their monthly food budget. This article provides a full cost of living comparison of Winter Garden vs Clermont. It is perfect for families relocating to the Orlando area, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in Winter Garden vs Clermont in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Winter Garden and Clermont. Here’s how typical rental and purchase prices compare:
| Housing Type | Winter Garden | Clermont |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,650 | $1,450 |
| 3BR Home Purchase | $450,000 | $380,000 |
🏆 Winner: Clermont. Housing costs an average of 15% less in Clermont compared to Winter Garden.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Residents can expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, water, and garbage collection in a 2BR apartment. Larger homes will have higher utility bills, especially in the summer months when air conditioning usage peaks.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable in Winter Garden and Clermont.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries and everyday items cost about 11% less in Winter Garden compared to Clermont. A gallon of milk averages $3.50 in Winter Garden and $4 in Clermont. Eating out is also more affordable – a meal for two at a mid-range Winter Garden restaurant costs around $50, versus $60 in Clermont.
🏆 Winner: Winter Garden. Expect to spend less on groceries and dining out in Winter Garden.
4. Taxes and Fees
Florida has no state income tax, so the biggest tax difference between Winter Garden and Clermont is in property taxes. Winter Garden’s property tax rate is 5.4%, while Clermont’s is 6.1%. For a $400,000 home, that’s a difference of $2,800 per year. In Winter Garden, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash collection.
🏆 Winner: Winter Garden. Lower property tax rates give Winter Garden the edge.
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Winter Garden | Clermont |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,650 | $1,450 |
| Utilities | $180 | $180 |
| Groceries | $400 | $450 |
| Transportation | $60 | $60 |
| Taxes | 5.4% | 6.1% |
| Misc | $250 | $250 |
| Est. Monthly Total | $2,540 | $2,390 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Clermont offers lower housing costs, Winter Garden has more affordable daily living expenses. Winter Garden is also more walkable, with a quaint downtown area. Clermont has more outdoor recreation with its rolling hills and lakes. Winter Garden averages 2°F warmer than Clermont year-round.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Winter Garden more affordable than Clermont?
Overall, Clermont has a lower cost of living than Winter Garden, mainly due to cheaper housing. However, Winter Garden is less expensive for groceries, dining out, and property taxes.
- Which city has lower rent?
Clermont has lower average rent prices. A 2BR apartment rents for around $1,450/month in Clermont compared to $1,650/month in Winter Garden.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Clermont has lower home prices. The median price of a 3BR home is $380,000 in Clermont versus $450,000 in Winter Garden.
8. Conclusion
For those prioritizing affordable housing, Clermont offers lower rent and purchase prices than Winter Garden. However, Winter Garden has cheaper groceries, dining, and property taxes, making it attractive for families. Lifestyle factors like walkability in Winter Garden or outdoor activities in Clermont can also sway the decision. Consider building a monthly budget for Winter Garden or reading up on the full cost of living in Winter Garden to evaluate how each city aligns with your finances and lifestyle in 2025.