Florida continues to attract new residents year after year, driven by its sunny climate, tax-friendly policies, and relaxed pace of life. While cities like Miami and Orlando often grab the spotlight, a different side of Florida is quietly gaining attention.
Beyond the busy metro areas, smaller towns are offering something harder to find: affordable homes, lower living costs, and strong community values. These destinations provide the lifestyle many buyers want, without the high prices or heavy traffic.
In 2025, smart homebuyers are shifting their focus to these hidden gems. They offer a balance of value, safety, and long-term potential. Here are three underrated Florida towns where more people are choosing to call home.
Bronson – Florida’s Most Affordable Gem
Bronson is one of Florida’s most affordable small towns. The median home price is just $228,000, and the cost-of-living index sits at 85. It means residents spend about 15% less than the national average on essentials like housing, groceries, and utilities.
The area offers a quiet lifestyle, access to nature, and a close-knit community. Families, retirees, and remote workers are drawn to the space, slower pace, and lower expenses. Nearby outdoor escapes like Goethe State Forest and the Suwannee River add to the appeal.
If you’re exploring Bronson homes for sale, Houzeo, America’s best home buying website, provides up-to-date listings and market information. This makes it easier to compare properties and identify opportunities for long-term value in this affordable, emerging market.
Clearwater Beach – Coastal Beauty with Strong Value
Clearwater Beach combines the charm of a Gulf Coast vacation town with strong real estate value. The median home price is around $737,500, offering a range of options from cozy condos to luxury waterfront homes. Many Clearwater Beach homes for sale give buyers the chance to enjoy a personal retreat while also building long-term investment value.
With a cost-of-living index of 130, expenses are about 30% above the national average. This reflects the area’s prime coastal setting, walkable neighborhoods, and active tourism economy. Residents enjoy access to world-famous beaches, vibrant dining, and a year-round vacation atmosphere.
The town reports a crime rate of 8.69 per 1,000 residents, which is considered low for a high-traffic tourist destination. That mix of lifestyle, safety, and long-term value makes Clearwater Beach a smart choice for buyers seeking more than just a seasonal getaway.
Pace – Suburban Growth with Lasting Appeal
Pace, in Santa Rosa County, is one of Northwest Florida’s fastest-growing suburbs. The median home price is around $360,450, with options ranging from modern subdivisions to large-lot properties ideal for families.
When exploring houses for sale in Pace, buyers will find neighborhoods with top-rated schools, expanding retail options, and family-friendly amenities. The town also has a cost-of-living index of 99, meaning residents spend slightly less than the national average on essentials like housing, groceries, and utilities.
Safety is another advantage: Pace reports a low crime rate of 19.4 per 1,000 residents, giving homeowners peace of mind. Combined with affordability, steady home values, and a growing community, Pace is an appealing choice for long-term suburban living.
How Are These Towns Preparing for the Future?
These Florida towns are not just affordable. They are also investing in long-term livability and growth:
- Bronson is improving rural infrastructure with better road access and expanded community health services. These upgrades enhance daily life while preserving the town’s quiet charm.
- Pace is seeing thoughtful suburban growth with the addition of new schools, shopping centers, and modern public facilities. These developments are making the area more attractive to families and new residents.
- Clearwater Beach is investing in tourism and livability through beach restoration, improved traffic flow, and pedestrian-friendly streets. These efforts are elevating the visitor experience and overall quality of life.
Each of these communities is laying the groundwork for a stronger future and enhancing its long-term real estate potential.
Why These Hidden Towns Are Gaining Attention
Bronson, Clearwater Beach, and Pace may not appear on every relocation list, but they offer clear advantages for buyers in 2025. Bronson provides affordable homes with a median price of $228,000. Clearwater Beach attracts buyers seeking coastal living, from condos to waterfront properties. Pace features suburban neighborhoods with modern homes at a median price of $360,450.
As Florida’s population grows, competition increases in major markets. These towns give buyers more options at lower price points. Each location combines affordability, community resources, and stable housing markets. This makes them strong choices for first-time buyers and long-term investors.
To explore listings in these towns and others like them, start your search with Houzeo, America’s best home buyer app. It provides real-time property alerts, detailed listing information, and tools to schedule tours and submit offers. Houzeo helps you stay up to date on new listings and make informed decisions as you find the right Florida home.