How Much Does It Cost to Rent a House in Florida?

Renting a house in Florida involves more than just the monthly rent. Understanding the various financial aspects, from market trends to additional upfront and ongoing costs, is essential for prospective tenants. This guide aims to clarify the financial landscape of renting a house in the Sunshine State, helping individuals budget effectively and make informed decisions.

Understanding Florida’s Rental Landscape

Florida’s rental market for houses is characterized by strong demand and evolving supply, leading to varied pricing. As of 2025, the average fair market rent for a residential property in Florida is around $1,752. This statewide average does not fully capture the significant differences in rental costs within Florida’s diverse regions.

Demand for housing in Florida has been consistently high, fueled by population growth and in-migration. While multifamily rental supply saw substantial growth, the supply of single-family homes for rent has declined. This dynamic contributes to continued competition among renters, particularly for houses. Housing affordability remains a challenge for many.

Key Factors Influencing Rental Prices

Several variables significantly impact the cost of renting a house in Florida. The most prominent factors include the property’s location, its characteristics, and seasonal demand fluctuations.

Location

Location is a primary determinant of rental costs, with prices varying significantly by region and city. High-cost areas typically include South Florida counties like Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach. Major metropolitan areas such as Miami, Orlando, and Tampa generally command higher rents. Areas like Jacksonville and Cape Coral tend to offer more affordable options.

Proximity to amenities, job centers, and desirable schools also drives up rental prices. Homes near popular attractions or in desirable neighborhoods often have higher pricing. Community amenities like pools or clubhouses can contribute to the overall rent.

Property Characteristics

The features and attributes of a house directly influence its rental value. The size of the property, including the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, along with total square footage, are fundamental considerations. Larger homes with more rooms typically command higher rents.

Amenities play a substantial role in determining rental appeal and price. Features such as private pools, fenced yards, updated kitchens and bathrooms, smart home technology, and in-unit laundry facilities can increase a property’s desirability and, consequently, its rent. The age and overall condition of the house are also important; newer construction or recently renovated homes generally achieve higher rental rates. Whether a home is furnished or unfurnished can also impact the monthly cost, with furnished homes often costing more.

Seasonal Demand

Rental prices in Florida can fluctuate based on the time of year, particularly in areas heavily reliant on tourism or those with a significant “snowbird” population. During peak tourist seasons or colder months in other parts of the country when seasonal residents flock to Florida, demand for rentals can increase, leading to higher prices. Conversely, during off-peak seasons, some areas might see a slight softening of rental rates. While some markets are seeing rents stabilize or even slightly decrease after a period of rapid growth, others continue to experience modest increases, reflecting the varied seasonal patterns and local market conditions.

Additional Costs Beyond Rent

Beyond the monthly rent, tenants in Florida should anticipate several other financial obligations. These additional costs can significantly impact a property’s overall affordability.

Security Deposits

Landlords in Florida typically require a security deposit to cover potential property damage beyond normal wear and tear or unpaid rent. While Florida law does not impose a limit on the amount a landlord can charge for a security deposit, it is common practice for deposits to range from one to two months’ rent. Landlords must store these funds in a separate account, which can be non-interest-bearing or interest-bearing, located in a Florida bank.

If held in an interest-bearing account, landlords must pay the tenant either 75% of the annualized average interest or 5% simple interest per year. Deductions from the security deposit are legally permissible for unpaid rent, unpaid utility bills, and damages exceeding normal wear and tear, but not for routine cleaning or minor scuffs. Landlords must provide an itemized list of deductions within 30 days of the tenant vacating the property.

First and Last Month’s Rent

It is a common practice for landlords in Florida to require the first and last month’s rent upfront in addition to the security deposit. This means a tenant might need to pay three months’ worth of rent upon signing a lease. The collection of the last month’s rent provides landlords with an added layer of financial security, ensuring that the final rent payment is covered even if a tenant defaults. While Florida law allows landlords to require this, the lease agreement should clearly specify these upfront payment terms.

Application Fees

When applying for a rental house, prospective tenants will typically encounter application fees. These fees are charged to cover the costs associated with processing the application, including background checks, credit checks, and checking landlord references. Although Florida does not legally cap the amount landlords can charge for application fees, they are generally advised to keep them within a reasonable range, typically between $30 and $50. Application fees are usually non-refundable, even if the application is rejected or withdrawn.

Pet Fees/Deposits

For tenants with pets, additional costs are almost always incurred. Florida law permits landlords to collect both refundable pet deposits and non-refundable pet fees. Pet deposits, which cover potential pet-related damage, commonly range from $200 to $500. Non-refundable pet fees, often a one-time charge, typically fall between $100 and $300.

In addition to these, some landlords may charge monthly “pet rent,” which averages between $20 and $50 per month, designed to offset increased wear and tear. It is important to note that landlords cannot charge pet fees or deposits for service animals or emotional support animals, as these are not considered pets under the law.

Utilities

Utilities represent a significant ongoing expense beyond the monthly rent. Common utilities include electricity, water, sewer, trash, internet, and cable. These are typically not included in the rent and are the tenant’s responsibility. The average utility costs in Florida can be substantial, with residents potentially paying upwards of $400 per month for all utilities combined. Specifically, the average electric bill for a 3-bedroom house in Florida can range from $150 to $200 monthly, influenced by factors like energy usage, appliance efficiency, and the need for air conditioning in Florida’s warm climate.

Homeowners Association (HOA) Fees

If the rental house is located within a community managed by a Homeowners Association, tenants may be responsible for HOA fees, though this is less common for single-family home rentals compared to condominiums. In most lease agreements for single-family homes, the landlord remains responsible for HOA fees. However, if a tenant is required to pay, these fees cover the maintenance of common areas, amenities like pools or clubhouses, and sometimes services such as trash removal. Average HOA fees in Florida can range from $150 to $600+ per month, varying based on the community’s amenities and location.