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FLORIDA - A recent study reveals that Florida's middle-class income range is relatively affordable compared to other states, despite the state's high cost of living.
A report by PODS, a moving and storage company, shows that although people are still moving to the Southeast, many are now choosing Appalachian states like North and South Carolina and Tennessee due to financial factors.
Florida’s high cost of living, severe weather impacts, congestion, inflation, and high insurance premiums have driven this trend.
Despite these challenges, Florida's middle-class income range remains lower than many other states.
According to a study by GOBankingRates using U.S. Census Bureau data, middle-class income requirements for families in Florida are more accessible than in states such as California and Massachusetts.
The middle-class income range for a two-person family in Florida is between $51,690 and $155,070, for a three-person family it's $58,572 to $175,716, and for a four-person family, it's $68,709 to $206,126.
In terms of affordability, Chattahoochee, Florida, stands out.
Ranked as one of the top five most affordable towns in the U.S. by Niche, this small town offers significantly lower housing costs compared to larger cities like Tallahassee.
The average home price in Chattahoochee is about $116,000, compared to Tallahassee's average of $294,000.
Florida’s overall cost of living varies, but small towns like Chattahoochee provide affordable alternatives to higher-cost urban areas, making it an attractive option for those seeking to live in the state on a budget.