This guide looks closely at realistic options, specific locations, and practical strategies for securing affordable one bedroom rentals across Florida without relying on guesswork or inflated promises.
Is $700 Rent Still Possible in Florida?
In most major Florida cities, $700 for a one bedroom apartment is no longer common. Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale have seen average rents climb far beyond that range. However, affordable rentals have not vanished entirely. They tend to appear in smaller towns, rural counties, and older properties where landlords focus on long term tenants rather than frequent turnover.
Renters who find success at this budget usually accept at least one of the following conditions:
- Living outside major metro areas
- Renting in older apartment complexes
- Choosing privately owned units instead of large property management firms
- Accepting limited amenities
Understanding these realities helps set expectations and prevents wasted time during the search.
Florida Cities Where $700 One Bedroom Apartments Still Appear
Affordable rentals cluster in specific parts of the state. While availability changes frequently, the locations below continue to show occasional listings near the $700 mark.
Panhandle and North Florida
North Florida remains the most realistic region for low cost rentals. Cities such as Pensacola, Panama City, and Tallahassee occasionally offer older one bedroom units within this range, particularly in neighborhoods away from downtown.
Smaller towns like Marianna, Chipley, Quincy, and Perry often have locally owned apartment buildings where rents stay lower due to limited competition and stable tenant demand.
Central Florida Rural Communities
Outside Orlando and Tampa, smaller cities such as Lake City, Arcadia, Avon Park, and Sebring may still list one bedroom apartments near $700. These markets serve local workers rather than tourists, which keeps prices more stable.
Inland South Florida
Coastal South Florida rarely supports this budget, but inland communities in Glades and Hendry counties sometimes do. Rentals here are limited and often fill quickly, making timing a major factor.
What $700 Rent Usually Includes
At this price point, renters should read listings carefully. A $700 one bedroom apartment in Florida is unlikely to include luxury features, but it can still meet basic living needs.
Typical features include:
- Older appliances
- Window or wall air conditioning instead of central air
- Limited parking options
- No in unit washer and dryer
Utilities may or may not be included. Some landlords bundle water or trash into the rent, while electricity is usually separate.
How to Improve Your Chances of Finding Affordable Rentals
Competition for low priced apartments is intense. Preparation and flexibility matter more than speed alone.
Search Beyond Major Listing Platforms
While popular rental sites remain useful, many affordable units never appear there. Local classifieds, community boards, and word of mouth referrals still play a major role in smaller Florida towns.
You can also explore housing tips and regional rental trends on The Apartment Row, which regularly covers budget focused rental options.
Contact Local Property Owners Directly
Privately owned duplexes and small apartment buildings often advertise with simple signs or local listings. Calling local property owners can reveal units that are not publicly listed.
Prepare Documents in Advance
Affordable apartments move fast. Having proof of income, identification, and references ready can make the difference between securing a unit or losing it.
Income and Credit Expectations
Many landlords offering $700 apartments prioritize reliability over high income thresholds. Some may accept lower credit scores if rental history is solid.
Common requirements include:
- Monthly income of two to three times the rent
- No recent evictions
- Basic background screening
In rural areas, requirements may be more flexible, especially when renting from individual owners.
Safety and Neighborhood Considerations
Lower rent does not automatically mean unsafe housing, but careful evaluation is important. Visit the neighborhood during the day and evening when possible. Talk to nearby residents and review local crime data.
External resources such as City-Data and NeighborhoodScout provide useful context on community conditions.
Common Scams to Avoid
Affordable listings attract scammers. Be cautious of any landlord who requests payment before showing the unit or refuses in person meetings.
Warning signs include:
- Requests for wire transfers or gift cards
- Unrealistic photos that do not match the location
- Pressure to pay immediately without a lease
Legitimate landlords will allow inspections and provide written lease terms.
Alternatives When $700 Apartments Are Unavailable
When true one bedroom apartments are scarce, renters often consider nearby alternatives.
- Studio apartments in smaller towns
- Converted garage apartments
- One bedroom units in duplexes
- Income restricted housing programs
Public housing authorities and nonprofit housing groups can also assist qualified renters. Information about subsidized programs is available through HUD.
Timing Your Search for Better Results
Rental availability fluctuates by season. Late fall and winter often bring less competition compared to spring and summer. Landlords may be more flexible during slower periods.
Staying active in the search, even when inventory seems low, increases the chance of finding a suitable opening.
Long Term Outlook for Affordable Rentals in Florida
Florida’s rental market remains tight, but affordability efforts continue at the local level. Smaller communities are expanding workforce housing, and older properties remain a key source of budget friendly units.
Renters who remain flexible, informed, and persistent still manage to secure 1 bedroom apartments for rent in Florida for $700, especially outside major cities.
Final Thoughts
Finding a one bedroom apartment at this price requires patience and realistic expectations. While luxury living is unlikely, stable and comfortable housing is still possible in the right locations.
Staying connected to reliable housing resources like The Apartment Row Cheap rental lists in California, exploring local listings, and acting quickly when opportunities appear can make affordable living achievable.