Nearly half of Americans are opting to work from home. With the rising availability of remote jobs, Florida has become a destination for digital nomads. The Sunshine State is ranked as one of the top five places for remote work in the U.S.
On top of the warm weather and waterfront properties, Florida offers reasonable home prices of around $406K, 25% annual appreciation, and no state taxes. As a growing population of 21 million keeps inventory at a minimum, occupancy rates have hit 93%, and annual rent increases are up by 55% in some areas.
Here is our list of the best cities in Florida for remote workers to help you find your next real estate investment.
1. Miami
Median home price: $590,000
Number of coworking locations: 53
Affordability / Cost of Living: 122.40
Avg apartment size: 887 sq. ft.
Avg monthly rent: $2,307
Access to public transportation: Bus, Monorail, Train, Trolley
As one of Florida’s major cities, Miami is a hotspot for digital nomads who thrive in a bustling metropolis with laid-back vibes. This coastal city boasts a selection of coworking spaces and cafes in popular neighborhoods like Coconut Grove, Wynwood, Brickell, and Downtown. The Metrobus and Metrorail system makes it easy for over 460K residents to travel between beachfront views and nearly 150 surrounding parks and recreation areas without wheels.
With a price-to-rent ratio of 23, about 70% of Miami real estate is renter-occupied. Two-bedroom units represent the bulk of the market, bringing in $1,750-$5,500 monthly. Average property costs are a bit steep at $590K. However, steady population growth continues to drive annual increases of 24.4% in rent prices and 27.4% in home values to help keep your cash flow in the green.
2. Orlando
Median home price: $390,000
Number of coworking locations: 11
Affordability / Cost of Living: 103.3
Avg apartment size: 962 sq. ft.
Avg monthly rent: $1,937
Access to public transportation: Bus, Rapid Transit, Monorail, Train, Trolley
Orlando is home to some of the most magical theme parks in the world, but recent growth in the tech sector is why this city welcomes 1,000 new residents per week. There is a 68-acre village dedicated to downtown high-tech clusters and shared spaces in surrounding areas that cater to freelancers, startups, and part-time job workers. Some notable coworking locations are Starter Studio, Catalyst Spaces, Citrus Club, and Novel Coworking.
Despite a 78% spike in appreciation rates over the last five years, housing costs are still relatively affordable at $390K. High demand has inventory at a one-month supply, shifting residents into rental units with a 63% market share. Listings are fairly consistent across the board, so it’s worth looking into some pricier neighborhoods. The average apartment price for two-bedroom units in Baldwin Park and Callahan neighborhoods can reach $2,618.
3. Fort Lauderdale
Median home price: $600,000
Number of coworking locations: 53
Affordability / Cost of Living: 118.5
Avg apartment size: 959 sq. ft.
Avg monthly rent: $2,719
Access to public transportation: Bus, Monorail, Train, Trolley, Water Taxi
The flex work scene in Ft. Lauderdale is just as hot as its white-sand beaches. Each coworking space has top-notch amenities like baristas, conference rooms, turnkey offices, support staff, content studios, and nap rooms. Beyond the boardroom walls is 165 miles of canals connecting 182K locals to restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues in every nook along the shoreline.
Renters take up 46% of Fort Lauderdale real estate, with most tenants paying close to $3,000 for two bedrooms. The median price tag will run you about $600K, but you can buy into some popular neighborhoods well below market value. Listings in Lake Ridge start around $200K and rent for $1,850-$6,800 a month. Harbordale is another popular neighborhood with listings in the $400K range and monthly rent prices between $1,700 and $6,000.
4. Tampa
Median home price: $430,000
Number of coworking locations: 14
Affordability / Cost of Living: 103.7
Avg apartment size: 927 sq. ft.
Avg monthly rent: $1,915
Access to public transportation: Bus, Monorail, Water Taxi, Trolley
Located on the gulf coast, Tampa is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the country and among the largest U.S. cities with the most remote work applications. Diverse communities of nearly 400,000 residents surround coworking spaces. Historic Ybor City and Seminole Heights are popular destinations for artisan markets, local music, and authentic Cuban cuisine.
Although rent prices continue to see annual increases of over 20%, occupancy rates remain steady at 94%. Single-family homes are the most common housing type, accounting for 52.35% of Tampa real estate. These units typically rent for $1,595-$3,798 per month. You can buy these properties in Ybor City for around $275K and charge up to $3,000 monthly.
5. Jacksonville
Median home price: $320,000
Number of coworking locations: 8
Affordability / Cost of Living: 94.2
Avg apartment size: 967 sq. ft.
Avg monthly rent: $1,530
Access to public transportation: Bus, Train, Monorail, Trolley, Water Taxi
Jacksonville is ranked as one of the best places for digital nomads in the U.S. This city offers more than 900,000 residents the perfect blend of coworking areas, craft breweries, and 87 miles of coastline. The area leans toward a suburban lifestyle stretched across 194 neighborhoods, all within arms reach of metropolitan amenities and over 400 national, state, and city parks.
Rising demand and low inventory levels hold the rental market share at 44% and occupancy rates at 93%. Median property prices currently sit at $320K, although most markets have listings under $200K. Rentals between $1,500-$2,000 represent 40% of the market, with 2-bedroom units being the most popular. Neighborhoods in San Marco and Windy Hill earn around $2,000 monthly for properties with two bedrooms and $2,500 for three bedrooms.
Visit our Florida State page for all of the information you need before buying
Final Thoughts
With an influx of flexible work opportunities and steady job growth of 5.1%, the Sunshine State expects to welcome 845 new residents daily all the way through April 2025. Regardless of your investment strategy, Florida real estate is primed for a profitable future.
Learn more about being a Florida landlord with our Florida Real Estate Investing Guide.
