Cost of Living in Venice, FL (2025 Edition): A Detailed Breakdown

Cost of Living in Venice, FL (2025 Edition): A Detailed Breakdown

Moving to a new place always comes with questions, and "How much does it really cost to live there?" is often at the top of the list. Venice, Florida, offers a wonderful coastal lifestyle, but understanding the financial landscape is key to a smooth transition.

While Venice can feel like paradise, it's not immune to the economic shifts affecting the rest of the country. Here's a detailed breakdown of what you can expect regarding the cost of living in Venice, FL, in 2025, from housing to your daily coffee.

Overall Picture

Generally, the cost of living in Venice tends to be slightly higher than the national average, primarily driven by housing costs. However, it's often more affordable than some of its larger coastal neighbors like Sarasota or Naples, striking a balance between desirable location and relative value.

1. Housing: Buy or Rent?

This is typically the largest component of anyone's budget, and Venice offers a range of options, from charming island bungalows to modern suburban homes and condos.

• Buying a Home (2025 Data):

  • As of May 2025, the median sold price for homes in Venice was approximately $429,471, according to Rocket Homes. This reflects a decrease from the previous year, suggesting a slight cooling in the market compared to recent peaks.
  • The median price per square foot was around $256.
  • Prices vary significantly by property type and location. For example, 1-bedroom homes had a median of $170K, while 3-bedroom homes were around $497K.
  • Market Trend: In May 2025, over 82% of homes sold below asking price, indicating some room for negotiation for buyers.
  • Further Reading: If you're considering purchasing, our blog post on Navigating Florida Flood Insurance as a Venice Homeowner is a must-read, as flood insurance costs can impact your overall housing expense.

• Renting a Home (2025 Data):

  • As of May 2025, the average rent in Venice, FL, is around $1,707 per month for an apartment, with a slight decrease over the last year (Apartments.com).
  • Breakdown by size:
    • Studio: approximately $1,280/month
    • One-bedroom: approximately $1,707/month
    • Two-bedroom: approximately $2,083/month
    • Three-bedroom: approximately $2,832/month
  • House rentals can be significantly higher, with 3-bedroom houses averaging over $3,800/month.
  • Tip: Rental prices can fluctuate seasonally, often peaking during the winter "snowbird" months (November-April).

2. Taxes: What You'll Pay

Florida has a reputation for being tax-friendly, and for good reason!

• No State Income Tax: This is one of Florida's biggest draws! You won't pay state income tax on your wages.
• Sales Tax: Florida has a statewide sales tax of 6%. Sarasota County may add a local discretionary sales surtax, bringing the combined rate higher depending on the specific product/service.
• Property Taxes: These vary by county and your home's assessed value.
  • The median effective property tax rate in Venice (considering exemptions) is around 1.11% of the assessed value.
  • The median annual tax bill in Venice is estimated around $3,375.
  • Homestead Exemption: If you purchase a primary residence, make sure to apply for the Homestead Exemption with the Sarasota County Property Appraiser's Office. This can significantly reduce your taxable value.
    • Website: Sarasota County Property Appraiser - Homestead Exemption

3. Utilities: Keeping Cool and Connected

Your utility bills will largely depend on your home's size, age, and most importantly, your air conditioning usage!

• Electricity (FPL): The average monthly electric bill in Venice is around $221 (EnergySage, 2025 data), which is slightly higher than the national average, primarily due to the need for continuous AC use in the heat.
• Water & Wastewater: Costs vary based on usage and whether you're serviced by the City of Venice or Sarasota County.
  • More Info: Our blog post on Understanding Venice's City Services (Water, Trash, Recycling) provides specific contacts.
• Internet/Cable: Expect to pay standard rates for these services, typically ranging from $60-$100+ per month depending on speed and package.
• Waste Collection: Included with your utility bill or paid separately depending on your location (City vs. County).

4. Food & Groceries: Filling Your Pantry

Grocery costs in Venice are generally in line with or slightly above the national average (around 4% higher for Florida overall). This slight bump is common in coastal areas due to transportation.

• Expect prices for staples like bread, milk, and eggs to be similar to what you'd find across the U.S., with some fluctuations. Major grocery chains like Publix, Winn-Dixie, and Aldi serve the area.

5. Healthcare: Access and Costs

Venice has excellent healthcare facilities, including Sarasota Memorial Hospital-Venice.

• While specific costs depend heavily on your insurance plan (Medicare, private, etc.) and individual needs, Florida's overall healthcare costs are often cited as being slightly lower than the national average.
• For those on Medicare, there are various Medicare Advantage plans available in Venice, some with $0 premiums, though Part B premiums still apply.
  • Resource: You can find information on 2025 Medicare Advantage plans for Venice through local health insurance advisors.

6. Transportation: Getting Around

Venice is largely a car-dependent community.

• Gas Prices: Subject to national and global trends, but Florida gas prices are generally close to the national average.
• Car Insurance: Florida car insurance rates can be higher than the national average due to factors like high population density, uninsured drivers, and hurricane risk. Rates vary widely based on your driving record, vehicle, and coverage.
• Public Transportation: While Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) provides bus services, they are not as extensive as in larger metropolitan areas. Most residents rely on personal vehicles.
  • More Info: Our Venice FAQ: 15 Questions Answered for Curious Future Residents touches on this.

7. Miscellaneous & Entertainment

• Dining Out: Venice offers a wide range of restaurants, from casual beachside cafes to upscale dining. Costs are comparable to similar establishments in other desirable areas.
• Entertainment: Enjoying the beaches, parks, and many community events can be very affordable or even free! Golfing, fishing charters, and cultural events will add to your budget depending on your interests.
• Seasonal Impact: Remember that during peak tourist season (roughly November to April), demand for services, dining, and some activities can increase, potentially affecting prices and wait times.

Budgeting for Your Venice Life

Living in Venice offers a fantastic lifestyle, but it's important to budget wisely. By considering these categories and factoring in your personal spending habits, you can create a realistic financial plan for your move to the Sunshine State.

Ready to make the move? Check out our full New Resident Checklist for Venice, FL to ensure you don't miss a step!