Daytona Beach attracts retirees with its warm weather, no state income tax, and affordable coastal living. However, hurricane risks and tourist crowds are drawbacks. Why retirees love living in Daytona Beach is evident in its golf courses, beaches, and active community. While budget-friendly, potential residents should weigh the pros and cons to determine if it’s the right fit
Why Do Retirees Move to Daytona Beach?
The warm weather, affordable cost of living, and no state income tax make Florida a top destination for retirees. And Daytona Beach? It’s got its own appeal.
- Beach Life: If you’ve always wanted to live near the water, Daytona Beach has miles of shoreline, plus a boardwalk and plenty of oceanfront dining.
- Affordable Housing: Compared to places like Miami or Naples, homes in Daytona Beach are more affordable.
- No State Income Tax: If you’re living off a pension, Social Security, or investments, Florida won’t take a cut.
- Plenty of Activities: Golf courses, fishing spots, and a ton of community events make it easy to stay active.
- Healthcare Access: Several hospitals and highly rated healthcare providers are nearby.
But it’s not all sunshine and ocean breezes. There are some downsides, too.
Downsides of Retiring in Daytona Beach
Nothing’s perfect, and that includes Daytona Beach.
- Hurricane Risk: If you live in Florida, you have to deal with hurricanes. Period. Home insurance can get expensive because of it.
- Tourist Season Gets Crazy: Daytona Beach is a vacation hotspot. Traffic, crowded restaurants, and noise pick up when visitors roll in.
- Humidity and Heat: The summers are brutal. If you hate humidity, this might not be the place for you.
- Some Areas Have Higher Crime Rates: Like any city, some neighborhoods are better than others. You’ll want to research before buying.
Is Daytona Beach Affordable for Retirees?
Compared to other Florida beach towns, Daytona Beach is more budget-friendly. The median home price is lower than places like Sarasota or Boca Raton.
Here’s what you can expect to spend on essentials:
| Expense | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $300,000 – $350,000 |
| Rent for a 2-Bedroom Apartment | $1,500 – $2,000/month |
| Groceries | About 5% lower than the national average |
| Healthcare | On par with the national average |
So, is it cheap? Compared to other coastal cities in Florida, yes. But prices have been going up, so it’s smart to plan ahead.
What Are the Best Areas in Daytona Beach for Retirees?
Daytona Beach has a mix of neighborhoods. Some cater more to retirees, while others are geared toward younger crowds.
- LPGA International: Golf, quiet streets, and a solid community vibe.
- Pelican Bay: A gated community with great amenities.
- Ormond Beach: Just north of Daytona Beach, a little quieter but still close to the action.
- Daytona Beach Shores: Oceanfront living with plenty of condos.
Each has its pros and cons. Think about what matters most—proximity to the beach, affordability, or community events.
Things to Do for Retirees in Daytona Beach
You won’t get bored here. Whether you’re into outdoor activities, social clubs, or just relaxing by the ocean, there’s something for you.
- Golf Courses: Plenty of options for all skill levels.
- Fishing: Deep-sea fishing, river fishing, and pier fishing are all solid choices.
- Live Music and Events: The Bandshell has free concerts, and there are festivals year-round.
- Farmer’s Markets: Fresh produce and local goodies.
- State Parks: If you like hiking or bird-watching, check out Tomoka State Park.
It’s easy to stay active without feeling like you have to “fill your schedule.” Just pick what you actually enjoy.
FAQs
Is Daytona Beach a good place to retire?
For some retirees, it’s perfect. The no state income tax and affordability are huge perks. But the hurricane risk, humidity, and tourism might be negatives for others.
What’s the best time of year in Daytona Beach?
October through May. The weather is cooler, and there are fewer tourists.
What is the biggest downside to retiring in Daytona Beach?
Hurricane season. If you’re not ready to deal with storms and higher insurance costs, you might want to look elsewhere.
Is healthcare good in Daytona Beach?
Yes. There are solid hospitals and plenty of doctors nearby. If you need specialized care, Orlando is about an hour away.
Do a lot of retirees live in Daytona Beach?
Yes. While it’s known as a vacation destination, there’s also a big retiree community here.
Conclusion
Retirement living in Daytona Beach has its perks and downsides. If beach life, warm weather, and affordability sound good to you, it might be worth looking into.