Best Place to Live in Daytona Beach, Florida

Daytona Beach, Florida, is a lively coastal city with beautiful beaches and rich history. From the excitement of the Speedway to the peaceful Atlantic Ocean, there's something for everyone. However, like any place, it has its pros and cons, from sunny weather to the occasional hurricane. Understanding what the city offers is key to deciding if it’s the right fit for you.

As of early 2025, Daytona Beach is a buyer's market with homes selling for around $304K to $312K, up 14.1% from last year. Homes are selling for 3% to 5% less than asking prices and are staying on the market for about 91 to 112 days. With 2,119 homes for sale, inventory has grown compared to last year.

The answer depends on your unique needs and priorities. Are you:

• A young professional seeking a dynamic community with plenty of entertainment options?

• A family looking for safe neighborhoods with top-rated schools and parks?

• A retiree searching for a warm climate, low taxes, and access to healthcare?

• A remote worker prioritizing affordability and a relaxed coastal lifestyle?

This guide will help you explore the best neighborhoods and what to consider when deciding to call Daytona Beach home.

Daytona Beach offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe, features, and housing trends. Here's a closer look at some of the top areas:

Overview: Ortona is a coastal gem offering stunning ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Housing Trends: The area has a mix of single-family homes and condos, with property values steadily rising thanks to its prime location.

Amenities: Residents enjoy easy access to beautiful beaches, parks, and a variety of dining spots.

Demographics: Ortona attracts both retirees and professionals looking for a calm, coastal lifestyle.

Safety: Known for its low crime rates, Ortona is a safe and welcoming place for families and retirees.

Lifestyle: With its relaxed vibe and close proximity to the beach, Ortona is perfect for those who love outdoor activities and beachside living.

Overview: Pelican Bay is a gated community known for its beautiful surroundings and high-end amenities.

Housing Trends: The area features mostly single-family homes, with prices reflecting its upscale appeal.

Amenities: Residents enjoy private golf courses, tennis courts, and clubhouses, creating a resort-style atmosphere.

Demographics: It attracts wealthy families and retirees looking for a secure, luxury lifestyle.

Safety: With gated access and extra security, Pelican Bay is considered one of the safest neighborhoods in Daytona Beach.

Lifestyle: The community offers privacy, comfort, and exclusive perks, perfect for those who enjoy upscale living.

Overview: This district blends historic charm with early 20th-century architecture and tree-lined streets, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere.

Housing Trends: A mix of restored historic homes and modern residences keeps property values rising, thanks to the area’s character and central location.

Amenities: Residents have easy access to cultural attractions, boutique shops, and a thriving dining scene.

Demographics: The neighborhood attracts young professionals, artists, and history lovers who appreciate its charm and energy.

Safety: With active neighborhood associations, the community maintains a strong sense of security.

Lifestyle: Seabreeze Historic District offers a lively, arts-focused atmosphere, perfect for those who love architecture, culture, and a vibrant community.

Overview: Built around a top-tier golf course, this neighborhood combines luxury living with plenty of recreation.

Housing Trends: Home options include high-end single-family houses and townhomes, with prices reflecting the upscale amenities and prime location.

Amenities: Residents enjoy championship golf courses, a clubhouse, fitness centers, and swimming pools.

Demographics: Popular among golf lovers, retirees, and families who want an active lifestyle.

Safety: The area is well-kept with low crime rates, making it a safe and peaceful place to live.

Lifestyle: Designed for those who enjoy sports, social events, and luxury living, LPGA International offers a vibrant and active community.

When looking for a neighborhood in Daytona Beach, think about location, amenities, safety, and community atmosphere to find the best fit for your lifestyle.

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Daytona Beach stands out for its lower cost of living compared to other Florida coastal cities. Still, expenses can vary based on the neighborhood and lifestyle. Here’s what to expect:

• Median Home Price: $315,000 lower than the national median of $417,700.

• Median Rent: About $1,450 for a one-bedroom and $1,800 for a two-bedroom.

• Property Taxes: No state income tax in Florida, but Daytona Beach property taxes average 0.94% of a home's value.

• Electricity & Water: Expect to pay between $140 and $180 per month for basic utilities.

• Gas Prices: Currently around $3.25 per gallon, slightly below the national average.

• Public Transit: The Votran bus system provides affordable transportation, but most residents rely on cars.

• Groceries: Food costs in Daytona Beach are a bit cheaper than the national average, with the average person spending around $400 a month on groceries.

• Dining Out: A casual meal costs about $12–$15, while a three-course dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant runs around $50.

Healthcare costs in Daytona Beach match the national average. Major hospitals like Halifax Health Medical Center offer quality care, and the city has plenty of clinics and specialists.

Beyond affordability, Daytona Beach offers a high quality of life, combining coastal beauty with small-town charm.

With lower-than-average home prices, Daytona Beach is an attractive option for buyers looking for affordable coastal living. Renters also benefit from reasonable housing costs compared to other Florida beach cities.

Daytona Beach is home to several highly rated hospitals, including Halifax Health and Advent Health Daytona Beach, ensuring access to quality healthcare.

Public schools in Daytona Beach are part of the Volusia County School District. Some of the top-rated schools include:

• Spruce Creek High School – A-rated with strong STEM programs.

• Ortona Elementary – Highly rated for early childhood education.

• Daytona State College – Affordable higher education and workforce training.

• Average commute time: 22 minutes

• Interstate 95 and U.S. Route 1 provide easy access to nearby cities

• The Daytona Beach International Airport offers convenient travel options

• Major industries: Healthcare, tourism, and aerospace. Top employers include Halifax Health, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and NASCAR.

• Average salary: $50,000 per year slightly below the national average but balanced by lower housing costs.

• Unemployment rate: 3.8%, matching Florida’s state average.

• Weather: Daytona Beach enjoys over 230 sunny days per year, with mild winters and hot, humid summers.

• Hurricane Risk: Like many coastal Florida cities, Daytona Beach is vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms, making home insurance costs higher than inland areas.

• Daytona Beach hosts famous events like Bike Week, Daytona 500, and Biketoberfest, making it a lively cultural hub.

• The city offers theater, live music, and art galleries, catering to those who appreciate the arts.

• Family-friendly attractions like Daytona Lagoon Water Park and the Marine Science Center make it a great place for families.

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The housing market in Daytona Beach, Florida, is seeing steady growth with a mix of affordable options and rising demand. Here’s a look at current trends shaping the local real estate scene.

• Current Market Status: As of 2024, Daytona Beach is transitioning from a strong seller’s market to a more balanced one, with increasing inventory giving buyers more options.

• Home Price Trends: Median home prices have increased by 12% over the past two years, but rising mortgage rates have slowed demand slightly.

• Rental Market: High demand for vacation rentals and seasonal homes keeps the rental market competitive, especially near the beach.

• New Developments: Several new residential projects are in the pipeline, including modern beachfront condos and gated communities.

• Investment Potential: Daytona Beach remains an attractive market for real estate investors due to strong tourism and rental demand.

Choosing the right place to live depends on your priorities. Daytona Beach offers:

✅ Affordable housing compared to other Florida coastal cities

✅ A vibrant culture and community events year-round

✅ A strong job market in tourism, healthcare, and aerospace

✅ Beautiful beaches and a laid-back lifestyle

⚠️ Seasonal tourism can cause traffic congestion

⚠️ Hurricane risks require higher home insurance costs

⚠️ Some neighborhoods may have higher crime rates, requiring careful research

Still unsure where to live in Daytona Beach? Whether you're looking to buy, rent, or invest, researching the right neighborhood is key. Reach out to a local real estate expert to explore your options today!

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