7 of the Best Small Towns in Florida for Home Buyers

When it comes to finding the perfect place to settle down, Florida's small towns offer charm, affordability, community spirit, and real estate opportunities that larger cities simply can’t match. Whether you’re a first-time home buyer, retiree, or investor looking for promising property value appreciation, Florida’s smaller locales deliver big benefits.

At Midwest Mortgage, we’ve helped countless homebuyers find their dream homes in hidden gems across the Sunshine State. We’ve analyzed market trends, community highlights, and livability factors to bring you 7 of the best small towns in Florida for home buyers, each with a unique personality and promising real estate outlook.

Seven of the Best Small Towns in Florida for Home Buyers

1. Dunedin – The Gulf Coast's Best-Kept Secret (Pinellas County, FL)

Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, Dunedin combines coastal living with small-town comfort. Located in Pinellas County, this scenic town is known for its walkable downtown, Scottish heritage, and proximity to pristine beaches like Honeymoon Island.

Median Home Price: ~$390,000

Population: ~36,000

Home Buyer Perks:

• No HOA restrictions in many neighborhoods
• Access to the Pinellas Trail for biking/walking
• Weekly farmers markets and festivals

Dunedin’s real estate market is competitive yet attainable, making it perfect for home buyers looking to invest near the coast without paying Clearwater Beach prices.

2. Mount Dora – Lakeside Living with Antique Charm (Lake County, FL)

Located just north of Orlando, Mount Dora is a picture-perfect small town known for its art festivals, antique shops, and charming historic homes. With its quaint downtown and scenic views of Lake Dora, it’s no surprise that Mount Dora is often named among Florida’s most livable small towns.

Median Home Price: ~$370,000

Population: ~16,000

Why Buyers Love It:

• Affordable homes with historic character
• Growing arts and culinary scene
• Easy access to Orlando without the city congestion

Mount Dora is ideal for those looking for a balance of peaceful living and cultural richness, with strong potential for long-term property value growth.

3. Fernandina Beach – Quiet Coastal Elegance (Duval County Border, FL)

Perched on Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach offers a serene beach lifestyle, a quaint historic district, and access to one of the best-preserved coastal towns in Florida. Although just north of Jacksonville (Duval County), it retains its own charm and identity.

Median Home Price: ~$485,000

Population: ~13,000

What Makes It Shine:

• Victorian architecture and historic inns
• Quiet beaches with low crowds
• Excellent schools and outdoor lifestyle

If you're a buyer looking for upscale coastal living without the hustle of South Florida, Fernandina Beach delivers luxury with a laid-back lifestyle.

4. DeLand – Affordable, Artsy, and Central (Volusia County, FL)

DeLand, located between Orlando and Daytona Beach, is one of Florida’s most underrated towns. Home to Stetson University, it brings a youthful, creative vibe to an otherwise tranquil setting. This area is ideal for families and retirees alike.

Median Home Price: ~$320,000

Population: ~39,000

Why Consider DeLand:

• Thriving arts and music culture
• Historic downtown with local restaurants and boutiques
• Proximity to major highways and Orlando attractions

This Central Florida gem offers affordable real estate, strong community engagement, and convenient access to both coast and city.

5. Venice – Gulf Coast Retirement Paradise (Sarasota County, FL)

Venice, south of Sarasota, is a beach town known for its Mediterranean-style architecture, calm beaches, and fossil-rich shores. It’s extremely popular among retirees, yet still offers a variety of homes suitable for young families and working professionals.

Median Home Price: ~$410,000

Population: ~26,000

What Buyers Get:

• Low crime rates and clean neighborhoods
• Top-notch medical facilities and healthcare access
• One of the best downtowns in Florida for walkability

If you’re seeking a beach town with structure, beauty, and comfort, Venice might be your best bet on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

6. Winter Garden – Historic and Family-Centric (Orange County, FL)

Just west of Orlando, Winter Garden has evolved from a citrus town into one of the most desirable small cities in Orange County. It offers a family-friendly environment with excellent schools, parks, and a nationally recognized downtown district.

Median Home Price: ~$475,000

Population: ~47,000

Why Home Buyers Are Drawn Here:

• One of Florida’s top-rated suburban school districts
• Weekly farmers markets and cultural events
• Direct access to Orlando via SR-429

Winter Garden provides a suburban oasis with urban convenience, perfect for families relocating from other states looking for safety and community.

7. Cooper City – South Florida’s Quiet Suburban Star (Broward County, FL)

Tucked within Broward County, Cooper City is a favorite among South Florida families. Though it's surrounded by bustling cities like Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood, Cooper City maintains a peaceful, tight-knit vibe.

Median Home Price: ~$550,000

Population: ~35,000

Highlights for Buyers:

• Excellent public and private schools
• Strong resale value and stable real estate market
• Access to I-75, I-595, and major employers

Cooper City is a safe bet for those seeking suburban calm with metro access, making it especially appealing for professionals and growing families.

Why Small Towns in Florida Are Gaining Popularity

Florida’s small towns offer a unique combination of:

• Lower home prices compared to major metros
• Stronger community bonds and lower crime rates
• Access to natural attractions like beaches, lakes, springs, and trails
• Less traffic and noise, which improves quality of life

As more remote workers, retirees, and families migrate from high-cost states like New York and California, these towns are seeing rising demand and property appreciation.

Work with Midwest Mortgage to Finance Your Florida Dream Home

At Midwest Mortgage, we understand the local markets, zoning nuances, and property values that shape Florida’s best small-town housing markets. Whether you’re looking to buy a primary residence, second home, or investment property, our experienced team is ready to help you lock in competitive mortgage rates and secure the financing you need.

Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Florida Small Town

With their affordability, livability, and future value potential, these Florida towns provide more than just a place to live—they offer a lifestyle many dream of. Whether you're drawn to the coastal serenity of Dunedin, the family charm of Winter Garden, or the cultural allure of Mount Dora, there’s a perfect place for you to call home.

For expert mortgage guidance and personalized financial solutions, reach out to Midwest Mortgage today. Let’s turn your dream of living in the Sunshine State into reality.

FAQs About Buying a Home in Florida’s Best Small Towns

1. What are the advantages of buying a home in a small Florida town versus a major city?

Small towns in Florida often provide more affordable housing, less traffic, lower crime rates, and a tighter sense of community. While major cities like Miami or Orlando can be crowded and expensive, towns like Mount Dora, Dunedin, and Winter Garden offer a higher quality of life with access to similar amenities and attractions.

2. Are mortgage rates different in smaller towns in Florida?

While mortgage rates are typically based on the borrower’s financial profile and market trends, Midwest Mortgage can sometimes offer more favorable loan options in emerging or lower-cost markets, which often include small towns. Additionally, local property taxes and insurance costs may be lower, contributing to reduced monthly payments.

3. Is it a good investment to buy property in Florida's small towns?

Yes. As remote work and lifestyle migration trends continue, demand for homes in small towns is rising. Many of these towns are seeing appreciation in home values, particularly those near coastlines, major highways, or metropolitan areas. Towns like Fernandina Beach and Cooper City have shown steady appreciation with strong resale value.

4. How do I qualify for a mortgage to buy a home in these Florida towns?

To qualify for a mortgage through Midwest Mortgage, you’ll typically need:

• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns)
• Credit score (minimums vary by loan type)
• Employment history
• Down payment (as low as 3% for some loan programs)

We offer various programs including FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans, tailored to each buyer’s situation.

5. Which Florida small town is best for families with school-aged children?

Winter Garden and Cooper City stand out for their high-performing school districts, family-focused communities, and proximity to parks and extracurricular programs. These towns offer the perfect blend of safety, education, and opportunity for growing families.