The debate of whether Sarasota or Fort Myers is the cheaper place to live has been going on for years. To answer this question, it is important to understand the cost of living in both cities.
Sarasota has a higher cost of living than Fort Myers. According to Numbeo, a global database of cost of living information, the cost of living index in Sarasota is 107.7, while Fort Myers’ index is 103.9. This means that it is slightly more expensive to live in Sarasota than Fort Myers.
The cost of rental properties in Sarasota is also higher than in Fort Myers. According to Zillow, the median rent in Sarasota is $1,785, while in Fort Myers, the median rent is $1,398. This is a significant difference and it shows that renting a property in Fort Myers is cheaper than renting in Sarasota.
The median housing price is also higher in Sarasota than in Fort Myers. According to Zillow, the median home value in Sarasota is $287,000, while in Fort Myers, the median home value is $242,000. This is another significant difference, showing that purchasing a home in Fort Myers is cheaper than purchasing in Sarasota.
Overall, it is cheaper to live in Fort Myers than Sarasota. While Sarasota has some advantages, such as better schools and higher wages, the cost of living is higher than in Fort Myers. Therefore, those looking for an affordable place to live should consider Fort Myers over Sarasota.
Comparing The Cost Of Living In Sarasota Vs. Fort Myers
When it comes to comparing the cost of living in Sarasota and Fort Myers, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Both locations have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the decision of where to live will depend on your budget and lifestyle preferences.
In terms of housing, Fort Myers is typically cheaper than Sarasota. According to Zillow, the median home value in Fort Myers is $239,000, while in Sarasota it is $280,000. That said, rental prices are comparable in both cities, with average rental prices in Fort Myers standing at $1,285 per month, compared to $1,432 in Sarasota.
When it comes to utilities, Fort Myers is also cheaper than Sarasota. According to Numbeo, monthly utility bills in Fort Myers average $147.98 per month, compared to $174.90 in Sarasota. The cost of food and groceries is also slightly cheaper in Fort Myers, with the average cost of basic groceries for a family of four estimated at $362.80 in Fort Myers, compared to $386.90 in Sarasota.
In terms of transportation, Sarasota has the edge over Fort Myers. According to Numbeo, public transportation in Sarasota is cheaper than in Fort Myers, with a one-way ticket costing $1.50 in Sarasota, compared to $2.00 in Fort Myers. Additionally, the average cost of a gallon of gas in Sarasota is $2.53, compared to $2.60 in Fort Myers.
Overall, it is difficult to definitively say which city is cheaper to live in. That said, if you are looking for a place with more affordable housing and utilities, Fort Myers may be the better option. On the other hand, if you are looking for a city with better public transportation, Sarasota is the way to go.
Here is a comparison of the cost of living in Sarasota and Fort Myers:
| Cost | Sarasota | Fort Myers |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $280,000 (median home value) | $239,000 (median home value) |
| Rent | $1,432 (average monthly rent) | $1,285 (average monthly rent) |
| Utilities | $174.90 (average monthly utilities) | $147.98 (average monthly utilities) |
| Food & Groceries | $386.90 (average for family of 4) | $362.80 (average for family of 4) |
| Public Transportation | $1.50 (one-way ticket) | $2.00 (one-way ticket) |
| Gas | $2.53 (average per gallon) | $2.60 (average per gallon) |
Examining The Affordability Of Living In Sarasota And Fort Myers
Are you considering a move to the Sarasota-Fort Myers area in Florida? You’re likely wondering if you can afford it. Living in a new area can be expensive, and you want to make sure it’s within your budget.
It’s important to do some research to make sure that a move to this part of Florida is within your financial means. The costs of living in Sarasota and Fort Myers can vary greatly. Let’s take a look at the differences in affordability between the two cities.
The cost of living in Sarasota is slightly higher than in Fort Myers. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, the overall cost of living in Sarasota is about 5% higher than the national average. In Fort Myers, the cost of living is about 4% lower than the national average. This means that on average, you’ll pay slightly more for goods and services in Sarasota than in Fort Myers.
When it comes to housing costs, there is a considerable difference between the two cities. According to Numbeo, the average price for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Sarasota is $1,343 per month, while in Fort Myers, it is $1,088 per month. The difference is even more stark when looking at the cost of a three-bedroom apartment in the city center – in Sarasota, it is $2,100 per month, while in Fort Myers, it is $1,357 per month.
These prices represent a significant difference in the cost of living between the two cities. If you’re looking to save money on housing, Fort Myers may be the better option. While the overall cost of living is slightly lower in Fort Myers than Sarasota, the savings on housing can make a big difference in your budget.
In addition to housing costs, you’ll also need to consider other expenses such as healthcare, transportation, and food. Numbeo estimates that the average cost of a visit to the doctor in Sarasota is around $90, while in Fort Myers it is $80. The cost of transportation is also slightly lower in Fort Myers, with the average price of a monthly transport pass being $41 compared to $48 in Sarasota.
The cost of food is also slightly lower in Fort Myers, with the average cost of a meal at a mid-range restaurant being $17 in Fort Myers compared to $19 in Sarasota. The cost of groceries is also slightly lower in Fort Myers, with the average cost of a basic grocery basket costing around $52 in Fort Myers compared to $60 in Sarasota.
When it comes to affordability, Fort Myers is the more cost-effective option. The cost of housing in Fort Myers is significantly lower than in Sarasota, and other costs such as food, transportation, and healthcare are also slightly lower. While the overall cost of living in Fort Myers is slightly lower than the national average, in Sarasota it is slightly higher.
If you’re considering a move to the Sarasota-Fort Myers area, it’s important to do your research to make sure it’s within your budget. With a little research, you can find an affordable option that suits your needs.
The cost of living in Sarasota is higher than that of Fort Myers, although the difference is not very significant.
In Sarasota, the median home value is around $290,000 while in Fort Myers it is around $170,000.
Utility costs in Sarasota are typically slightly higher than in Fort Myers.
Grocery costs are generally lower in Fort Myers than in Sarasota.
In both cities, public transit, taxis, and ride-sharing services are available.
The costs of health care and insurance are generally similar in both cities.
Overall costs of living in Sarasota are typically slightly higher than in Fort Myers.
Both cities have sales tax and other taxes and fees.
The average cost of living in Sarasota is around 6% higher than in Fort Myers.
The cost of living index in Sarasota is 108, while in Fort Myers it is 103.