When you’re moving yourself and relocating across the US for work, there are a lot of factors to think about for financial reasons before packing boxes. The choice between living in Oregon and Florida in 2024 is not just about different landscapes but a distinct understanding of cost-of-living dynamics. One region is cooler, more lively, and more exciting, while the other provides peaceful beaches and shiny waters.
Living costs differ in many ways between Oregon and Florida, and in our source, we’ve found Florida to be 1.8% higher in cost. But one may also offer better perks than the other based on individual needs.
So, when moving for work or education, certain cost managerial information can help you decide when, how, and why to move. In this article, we reveal the complete comparison between Oregon and Florida in terms of living costs – from grocery and healthcare facilities to beer and movie prices. Let’s start.
Breaking Down Expenses: Living Cost in Oregon Vs Florida
Both the States of Oregon and Florida come with the question of expenses in the choice section. But living in them and comparing the cost of living is not an easy job for all. Let’s dive deep into the expenses, dissecting each aspect to help you make an informed decision.
Restaurants in Oregon vs. Florida
When dining out in a restaurant, numbers can significantly impact your monthly budget. In Oregon, you can get a basic meal with a drink at an inexpensive restaurant, which averages just around $18.2. In Florida, a comparable meal is slightly higher at $19.03.
However, this difference is only 4.1%, indicating that food expenses may not change significantly depending on location.
In the fast-food sector, McDonald’s or similar deniers’ combined meals are 4.3% cheaper in Florida, making these quick snacks much lighter for your wallet.
Grocery Shopping & Food Prices
Let’s look at the food costs. Oregon and Florida show noticeable differences in this section, where Florida is pricier than Oregon. On average, Florida’s groceries are 5.1% more expensive than Oregon’s, but certain food items may tell a different story.
In Oregon, basic food items such as bread, local cheese, and eggs can be cheaper, with price differences of 6.7%, 11.3%, and 1.4%, respectively. On the contrary, Oregonians pay more for boneless chicken breasts, apples, and potatoes. These differences can clearly jeopardize your specific diet preferences and purchasing habits.
Transportation Costs in Oregon and Florida
Whether you’re living in Port Orange, FL, or Oregon, driving and moving out will be common in both instances, and it’s an area where Oregon seems to have a slight advantage.
Florida has 6.0% lower transportation expenses than Oregon. The cost of gasoline, monthly tickets for public transport, and taxi rides all play a role in this fluctuation. Petrol is 15.1% less expensive in Florida, which might make road trips and regular commutes more budget-friendly for the working group or students.
Housing Cost on the Oregon vs. Florida
The median home price and rental costs are lower in Florida than in Oregon, but they vary by location and type of home.
The Oregon coast is slightly cheaper than the Oregon average, but still more expensive than most states. However, housing cost is not the only factor to consider. Other factors, such as climate, culture, amenities, safety, health care, education, employment, and taxes, may influence your preference and decision. For example, if you are looking for a peaceful and natural setting, you may like Riverwood Plantation, a community in Port Orange, Florida, that offers access to Spruce Creek and a fishing dock.
Entertainment Expenses
The true meaning of living is not just the cost; it’s living to your fill. But a more complex picture pops up when we look at how much entertainment and sports cost in these cities.
While Oregon residents must pay 4.2% more for things like beer, cappuccinos, and movie tickets, the difference is acceptable given the significantly higher minimum state wage rates.
You may find somewhat more reasonable alternatives in the above groups in Florida, which is known for its vibrant entertainment scene. Therefore, your entertainment budget could affect your choice, regardless of whether you’re a movie buff or a sports fan.
Healthcare Considerations
Health care is essential and medical expenses are a major contributor to living costs. Oregon’s health care is 12.4% cheaper than Florida’s. This means that emergency medical treatment is safe there.
Having access to affordable, high-quality medical care can be crucial when making a relocation plan. However, individual medical needs always differ, so it’s important to weigh aspects like insurance and unique medical requirements when making a decision.
Taxes and Finances
Taxes often play a vital role in the cost of living equation. Both Oregon and Florida have their own tax structures, affecting their financial landscapes. Oregon’s income tax regulations may affect the tax return for home wages, while Florida does not have an income tax.
So if you are planning to live in Port Orange, FL, there are potential savings. Understand the tax implications before you move for accurate financial planning to live in Florida or Oregon.
Weigh Your Decision: Living Experiences in Florida and Oregon
These tangibles aren’t the only things that impact Oregon and Florida’s lives, however. The varied terrain of Oregon is well-known for its laid-back way of life, abundance of outdoor activities, and vibrant cultural environment.
Florida, on the other hand, is home to vibrant towns, exciting amusement parks, and the beach. Your ideal living situation will depend heavily on factors like your preferred climate, the options available to you professionally, and the way you want to live your life.
