Is Tampa expensive to live in?

Tampa is considered moderately expensive, with a cost index of 108 compared to the US average of 100. Living here costs about 8% more than the national average. The median monthly rent is $1,968, and the median household income is $71,302.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Tampa?

Using the standard 30% rent-to-income rule, you need at least $78,720/year to afford median rent in Tampa. The median household income is $71,302, giving a rent-to-income ratio of 33%. Financial experts recommend keeping rent below 30% of gross income.

What is the average rent in Tampa?

The median rent in Tampa is $1,968 per month. Housing costs score 121 against the national average of 100, meaning housing is 21% more expensive than the US average.

How does Tampa compare to the national average cost of living?

Tampa's overall cost index is 108 vs the national average of 100. Breaking it down: housing (121), food & groceries (106), transportation (103), utilities (100), and healthcare (112). Tampa is above average in most categories.

Is Tampa, Florida a good place to live?

Tampa has a population of 403,364 and a median household income of $71,302. With a cost index of 108, it offers a higher-cost lifestyle. The rent-to-income ratio is 33%, which is above the recommended 30% threshold.

What are the cheapest cities near Tampa?

To find the most affordable cities near Tampa in Florida, use the Livably city comparison tool or browse the Florida state page. You can compare rent, cost index, income, and affordability side by side across all tracked cities.

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Monthly city intelligence across housing costs, tax load, and affordability signals to help you plan your next move with clearer numbers.

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Cost index: 108

Median rent: $1,968

Median income: $71,302

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About Tampa

Living in Tampa, Florida

Tampa, Florida is a mid-size city with a population of approximately 403,364. The overall cost of living index sits at 108, which is above the national average of 100. This means everyday expenses — housing, groceries, transportation, and healthcare — are roughly 8% more expensive compared to the typical U.S. city.

Housing is the largest cost driver in Tampa. Median rent is $1,968 per month, while the median home price is $369,079. At a median household income of $71,302, rent consumes roughly 33% of gross income, which represents a moderate housing cost burden. The housing sub-index of 121 highlights significantly elevated shelter costs.

Beyond housing, healthcare is the most elevated non-shelter expense in Tampa with a sub-index of 112, while utilities is comparatively more affordable at 100. State-level taxes also shape the true cost of living: Florida applies a 0.00% income tax rate, and property tax averages 0.80% of assessed home value. The combined sales tax rate is 7.05%. Local income tax may apply in some municipalities.

Over the past twelve months, the cost of living in Tampa has remained relatively stable. Among the 22 tracked cities in Florida, Tampa ranks #9 from most to least affordable. Whether you're evaluating a job offer, planning a relocation, or comparing salary purchasing power, these numbers give a grounded, data-backed view of what life in Tampa actually costs.

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