$70,000 per year after taxes is what you need to live comfortably in Orlando. However, the average household income in Orlando is $88,000. After taxes my analysis of $70,000 is very close. The median price of a rental property is around $2,200 per year. You will be want savings to help pay for a downpayment on larger purchases.
The minimum wage in Florida is currently $12 and is scheduled to increase every October 1st until reaching $15 in 3 more years. We are currently #9 in the nation and far over the national average and federal minimum wage. That matters to everyone because people on the minimum wage also spend money and lay their part in the velocity of money. God bless you if you are working and earning $12 er hour in Orange County Florida.
Actually the cost of living index is fairly high in Orlando. The further you go south in Kissimmee the better it gets. However then you have to drive further to everything in Orlando. One area that Orlando does shine is public transportation. Many people live happily using it but many also hate it. Depending on where you work and how long your hours are it can save you a headache and money in Orlando. Flix Bus Service, Amtrak and the Brightline to South Florida may all benefit you.
I know this is tough as my wife and I have both done it. The good news is that Orlando Florida does have a decent job market and a couple of great employers. Namely, the city and county governments and Disney etc. Walt Disney World employs a lot of people. Some eventually earn a decent living.
Previous Article
Next Article