#1Bagdad
unincorporated, Santa Rosa County · 4,466 peopleStrongest: cost of living A, jobs & income A−·lowest: hazard risk D
ACost–SafetyA−SchoolsB+HealthA−JobsCWalkDHazards
Bagdad, #1 on this list · Photo: Ebyabe · CC BY-SA 3.0Florida rankings · 2026
Best small towns in Florida
Bagdad ranks first of Florida’s 284 graded small towns (2,500–9,999 residents), with an A+: cost of living (A) and jobs & income (A−) are its strongest grades; hazard risk (D) is its lowest. 19 of the 284 (7%) grade A− or better nationally, against 25% of U.S. towns.
The overall grade, sorted: cost of living, safety, schools, health, jobs & income, walkability and hazard risk, from Census, FBI, state, CDC, EPA and FEMA data. How grades work
#1A+
St. Augustine South
unincorporated, St. Johns County · 4,714 peopleStrongest: schools A+, jobs & income A−·lowest: cost of living C+
C+Cost–SafetyA+SchoolsA−HealthA−JobsB−WalkA−Hazards
Kensington Park
unincorporated, Sarasota County · 3,916 peopleStrongest: schools A−, jobs & income A−·lowest: hazard risk D
BCost–SafetyA−SchoolsBHealthA−JobsBWalkDHazards
Where they are: Four of the top 10 are in Sarasota County.
All 284 small towns
Overall score, highest first. The score (0–100) blends the seven livability grades and sets the order; the letter places that score among every U.S. town of 2,500+, and A+ is the top 5%, so neighbors on the list often share a letter. Each town links to its page, where the grade sheet shows every subject. The rank is the town’s place among all 634 Florida towns.
284 towns ranked. Not here? See why a town may be missing.
#TownScoreGradeWhat drives it
1Bagdadunincorporated, Santa Rosa County · 4,466 people72.3top 3.7%A+Strongest: cost of living A, jobs & income A−·lowest: hazard risk D
2St. Augustine Southunincorporated, St. Johns County · 4,714 people69.8top 7.1%AStrongest: schools A+, jobs & income A−·lowest: cost of living C+
4Kensington Parkunincorporated, Sarasota County · 3,916 people65.4top 15.8%A−Strongest: schools A−, jobs & income A−·lowest: hazard risk D
5Vineyardsunincorporated, Collier County · 3,849 people65.1top 16.4%A−Strongest: jobs & income A+, health A−·lowest: hazard risk D−
6Pea Ridgeunincorporated, Santa Rosa County · 3,560 people65.0top 16.7%A−Strongest: schools A−, cost of living B+·lowest: hazard risk D
9Vamounincorporated, Sarasota County · 2,936 people64.8top 17.2%A−Strongest: health A, jobs & income A·lowest: hazard risk D
10Heathrowunincorporated, Seminole County · 6,769 people64.5top 17.9%A−Strongest: health A+, jobs & income A·lowest: cost of living D
11Longboat KeySarasota County · 7,359 people64.4top 18.2%A−Strongest: walkability A+, safety A·lowest: cost of living D−
12Genevaunincorporated, Seminole County · 3,441 people63.6top 20.1%A−Strongest: jobs & income A+, health A·lowest: walkability D
13Warm Mineral Springsunincorporated, Sarasota County · 4,470 people63.5top 20.3%A−Strongest: walkability A, cost of living A·lowest: hazard risk D
14St. Augustine BeachSt. Johns County · 6,810 people63.3top 20.8%A−Strongest: schools A+, walkability A·lowest: cost of living D
16MalabarBrevard County · 3,175 people63.1top 21.1%A−Strongest: jobs & income A, schools B+·lowest: hazard risk D
20Tiger Pointunincorporated, Santa Rosa County · 3,628 people62.7top 22.3%A−Strongest: health A, schools A−·lowest: hazard risk D
23Gulf BreezeSanta Rosa County · 7,067 people62.4top 22.9%A−Strongest: safety A, health A·lowest: cost of living D
24ValparaisoOkaloosa County · 4,896 people62.4top 22.9%A−Strongest: walkability A, health A−·lowest: hazard risk D
27Naples Parkunincorporated, Collier County · 5,122 people61.8top 24.5%A−Strongest: health A, walkability A−·lowest: hazard risk D
28Pelican Marshunincorporated, Collier County · 2,617 people61.7top 24.8%A−Strongest: jobs & income A+, health A·lowest: cost of living D−
29Bay Pinesunincorporated, Pinellas County · 2,519 people61.7top 24.8%A−Strongest: jobs & income B+, health B+·lowest: hazard risk C
31Wallaceunincorporated, Santa Rosa County · 4,202 people61.7top 24.8%A−Strongest: health A, jobs & income A·lowest: hazard risk D
37Sawgrassunincorporated, St. Johns County · 4,929 people61.0top 26.8%B+Strongest: schools A+, health A·lowest: cost of living D−
38BelleairPinellas County · 4,631 people60.9top 27.1%B+Strongest: health A, safety A·lowest: cost of living D−
39Zellwoodunincorporated, Orange County · 3,228 people60.9top 27.3%B+Strongest: cost of living A, jobs & income A−·lowest: walkability D
41Lake Lorraineunincorporated, Okaloosa County · 6,903 people60.7top 27.7%B+Strongest: health A, jobs & income A−·lowest: hazard risk D
42Bay Harbor IslandsMiami-Dade County · 6,021 people60.4top 28.3%B+Strongest: walkability A+, health A·lowest: cost of living D−
43South Patrick Shoresunincorporated, Brevard County · 7,030 people60.4top 28.4%B+Strongest: health A, jobs & income A·lowest: hazard risk D
44Southgateunincorporated, Sarasota County · 5,772 people60.4top 28.4%B+Strongest: jobs & income A, schools A−·lowest: hazard risk D
47TequestaPalm Beach County · 6,299 people59.9top 29.7%B+Strongest: health A, safety A·lowest: cost of living D−
48Zephyrhills Westunincorporated, Pasco County · 5,980 people59.9top 29.8%B+Strongest: cost of living A, walkability B+·lowest: hazard risk C−
50Lake Clarke ShoresPalm Beach County · 3,597 people59.7top 30.1%B+Strongest: health A−, jobs & income A−·lowest: cost of living C−
51Orangetreeunincorporated, Collier County · 6,084 people59.4top 30.9%B+Strongest: jobs & income A, health A·lowest: hazard risk D−
53FellsmereIndian River County · 5,025 people59.2top 31.4%B+Strongest: walkability A−, safety A−·lowest: hazard risk D−
55Melbourne BeachBrevard County · 3,260 people58.9top 32.3%B+Strongest: health A, walkability A−·lowest: hazard risk D
56Holden Heightsunincorporated, Orange County · 3,286 people58.5top 33.1%B+Strongest: walkability A, jobs & income B·lowest: hazard risk B−
57St. Augustine Shoresunincorporated, St. Johns County · 9,462 people58.5top 33.1%B+Strongest: schools A+, health B+·lowest: cost of living C−
58Fern Parkunincorporated, Seminole County · 7,981 people58.4top 33.4%B+Strongest: schools A−, walkability A−·lowest: cost of living C−
59WestlakePalm Beach County · 9,042 people58.4top 33.4%B+Strongest: health A+, jobs & income A·lowest: cost of living D−
60Lake Sarasotaunincorporated, Sarasota County · 3,595 people58.4top 33.5%B+Strongest: schools A−, health A−·lowest: hazard risk D
61OaklandOrange County · 3,774 people58.4top 33.5%B+Strongest: jobs & income A, health A·lowest: cost of living D
63Indian Harbour BeachBrevard County · 8,914 people58.1top 34.5%B+Strongest: health A−, jobs & income A−·lowest: cost of living D
64Siesta Keyunincorporated, Sarasota County · 5,525 people57.9top 34.9%B+Strongest: health A, schools A−·lowest: cost of living D−
65Taftunincorporated, Orange County · 2,730 people57.8top 35.3%BStrongest: hazard risk A−, health B·lowest: schools B−
67Ospreyunincorporated, Sarasota County · 5,943 people57.4top 36.2%BStrongest: walkability A, schools A−·lowest: cost of living D−
68BushnellSumter County · 3,157 people57.3top 36.4%BStrongest: cost of living A, schools A·lowest: jobs & income C
70SurfsideMiami-Dade County · 5,591 people57.0top 37.4%BStrongest: walkability A+, health A−·lowest: cost of living D−
76WindermereOrange County · 3,344 people56.7top 38.1%BStrongest: jobs & income A+, health A+·lowest: cost of living D−
81Palm BeachPalm Beach County · 9,423 people56.2top 39.7%BStrongest: walkability A+, health A·lowest: cost of living D−
83Lauderdale-by-the-SeaBroward County · 6,280 people56.1top 40.0%BStrongest: walkability A, health A·lowest: cost of living D−
84The Meadowsunincorporated, Sarasota County · 5,492 people56.0top 40.0%BStrongest: schools A−, walkability A−·lowest: hazard risk D
85Miramar Beachunincorporated, Walton County · 8,902 people56.0top 40.2%BStrongest: schools A, health A−·lowest: cost of living D−
87South Beachunincorporated, Indian River County · 3,063 people55.9top 40.2%BStrongest: health A, jobs & income A−·lowest: hazard risk D−
88Crawfordvilleunincorporated, Wakulla County · 5,732 people55.9top 40.4%BStrongest: schools A, jobs & income B+·lowest: hazard risk D
89Orange ParkClay County · 8,953 people55.8top 40.6%BStrongest: walkability A, schools A−·lowest: cost of living C+
91Williamsburgunincorporated, Orange County · 9,063 people55.5top 41.3%BStrongest: jobs & income A, health B+·lowest: cost of living C
92Nokomisunincorporated, Sarasota County · 3,452 people55.5top 41.4%BStrongest: schools A−, health B·lowest: hazard risk D
94North Bay VillageMiami-Dade County · 8,099 people55.4top 41.7%BStrongest: health A, jobs & income A−·lowest: cost of living D−
96Zephyrhills Southunincorporated, Pasco County · 5,008 people55.3top 41.9%BStrongest: cost of living A, walkability A−·lowest: hazard risk C−
101Mary EstherOkaloosa County · 4,093 people54.9top 43.0%BStrongest: schools A−, health B+·lowest: hazard risk D
102Highland BeachPalm Beach County · 4,328 people54.9top 43.0%BStrongest: jobs & income A+, health A·lowest: cost of living D−
104Plantationunincorporated, Sarasota County · 4,531 people54.8top 43.1%BStrongest: schools A−, health B+·lowest: hazard risk D
107Venice Gardensunincorporated, Sarasota County · 3,280 people54.8top 43.3%BStrongest: walkability A, schools A−·lowest: hazard risk D
108June Parkunincorporated, Brevard County · 4,255 people54.8top 43.3%BStrongest: health A−, schools B+·lowest: hazard risk D
111Southwest RanchesBroward County · 7,773 people54.7top 43.5%BStrongest: jobs & income A+, health A·lowest: cost of living D−
112Pelican Bayunincorporated, Collier County · 6,159 people54.7top 43.5%BStrongest: health A−, schools A−·lowest: cost of living D−
113De Leon Springsunincorporated, Volusia County · 2,687 people54.6top 43.7%BStrongest: walkability A+, cost of living B·lowest: hazard risk C−
116Tangerineunincorporated, Orange County · 4,326 people54.5top 43.9%BStrongest: jobs & income A−, health B+·lowest: cost of living C
118West Bradentonunincorporated, Manatee County · 3,991 people54.4top 44.2%BStrongest: jobs & income A, walkability A−·lowest: hazard risk D
120Neptune BeachDuval County · 7,020 people54.3top 44.5%BStrongest: jobs & income A+, health A·lowest: cost of living D
124Ridge Wood Heightsunincorporated, Sarasota County · 5,366 people54.2top 44.7%BStrongest: schools A−, jobs & income A−·lowest: hazard risk D
126Bay Hillunincorporated, Orange County · 4,512 people54.2top 44.7%BStrongest: jobs & income A+, health A+·lowest: cost of living D−
129IndialanticBrevard County · 3,096 people54.2top 44.9%BStrongest: health A, walkability A−·lowest: cost of living D−
133Juno BeachPalm Beach County · 3,935 people53.9top 45.6%B−Strongest: health A, safety B+·lowest: cost of living D−
134North Sarasotaunincorporated, Sarasota County · 2,824 people53.7top 46.2%B−Strongest: walkability A, schools A−·lowest: hazard risk D
136Vero Lake Estatesunincorporated, Indian River County · 6,559 people53.6top 46.4%B−Strongest: jobs & income A−, schools A−·lowest: hazard risk D−
140Flagler Estatesunincorporated, St. Johns County · 4,321 people53.4top 46.9%B−Strongest: schools A+, cost of living B·lowest: walkability D
143Ponce InletVolusia County · 3,470 people53.4top 47.1%B−Strongest: walkability A−, health A−·lowest: cost of living D
146Loxahatchee GrovesPalm Beach County · 3,549 people53.3top 47.5%B−Strongest: health A−, walkability A−·lowest: cost of living D
148Feather Soundunincorporated, Pinellas County · 3,476 people53.2top 47.6%B−Strongest: health A, jobs & income B+·lowest: cost of living D−
149Laguna Beachunincorporated, Bay County · 3,830 people53.2top 47.7%B−Strongest: walkability A, health B+·lowest: hazard risk D−
158Pretty Bayouunincorporated, Bay County · 2,906 people52.8top 48.9%B−Strongest: health A, jobs & income B+·lowest: hazard risk D−
162South Gate Ridgeunincorporated, Sarasota County · 5,310 people52.6top 49.5%B−Strongest: schools A−, health B+·lowest: cost of living D
163Woodlawn Beachunincorporated, Santa Rosa County · 3,414 people52.5top 49.7%B−Strongest: health A, schools A−·lowest: hazard risk D
164Ellentonunincorporated, Manatee County · 5,133 people52.4top 49.8%B−Strongest: walkability A, health B·lowest: hazard risk D
166Butler Beachunincorporated, St. Johns County · 4,610 people52.3bottom 49.8%B−Strongest: schools A+, health A−·lowest: cost of living D
167Lelyunincorporated, Collier County · 3,804 people52.3bottom 49.7%B−Strongest: schools A−, jobs & income B+·lowest: hazard risk D−
171River Ridgeunincorporated, Pasco County · 5,149 people52.1bottom 49.3%B−Strongest: walkability B+, schools B·lowest: cost of living C
173Eglin AFBunincorporated, Okaloosa County · 2,778 people51.9bottom 48.6%B−Strongest: health A, schools A−·lowest: cost of living D−
174Indian River ShoresIndian River County · 4,467 people51.9bottom 48.6%B−Strongest: health A−, schools A−·lowest: cost of living D−
175HypoluxoPalm Beach County · 2,954 people51.7bottom 48.1%B−Strongest: walkability A+, health B+·lowest: cost of living C−
177South Sarasotaunincorporated, Sarasota County · 4,837 people51.7bottom 48.0%B−Strongest: schools A−, health A−·lowest: cost of living D−
178Odessaunincorporated, Pasco County · 8,381 people51.7bottom 48.0%B−Strongest: health A, jobs & income B+·lowest: cost of living D
179Harbor Bluffsunincorporated, Pinellas County · 3,076 people51.6bottom 47.8%B−Strongest: jobs & income A, health A−·lowest: cost of living D
180Lake HelenVolusia County · 2,994 people51.4bottom 47.4%B−Strongest: jobs & income A−, safety A−·lowest: cost of living C−
187Moon Lakeunincorporated, Pasco County · 4,638 people51.0bottom 46.4%B−Strongest: cost of living A, walkability A·lowest: health D−
188FreeportWalton County · 7,543 people51.0bottom 46.3%B−Strongest: schools A, health B+·lowest: hazard risk D
189Gulf Gateunincorporated, Sarasota County · 7,998 people50.9bottom 46.1%B−Strongest: walkability A, schools A−·lowest: hazard risk D
190Island Walkunincorporated, Collier County · 2,722 people50.8bottom 45.8%B−Strongest: schools A−, jobs & income A−·lowest: hazard risk D−
191Lely Resortunincorporated, Collier County · 8,582 people50.8bottom 45.8%B−Strongest: health A, schools A−·lowest: cost of living D−
195High Pointunincorporated, Hernando County · 3,548 people50.7bottom 45.4%B−Strongest: cost of living A−, schools B−·lowest: jobs & income C
196Cedar Groveunincorporated, Bay County · 3,802 people50.6bottom 45.2%B−Strongest: walkability A−, cost of living B+·lowest: hazard risk D
198EdgewoodOrange County · 2,845 people50.6bottom 45.1%B−Strongest: jobs & income A, health B·lowest: cost of living D
201Grant-ValkariaBrevard County · 5,982 people50.6bottom 45.1%B−Strongest: jobs & income A, schools B+·lowest: hazard risk D−
203Palm Springs Northunincorporated, Miami-Dade County · 5,410 people50.5bottom 45.0%B−Strongest: jobs & income A, schools B+·lowest: cost of living D−
206Ave Mariaunincorporated, Collier County · 8,258 people50.4bottom 44.7%C+Strongest: schools A−, health A−·lowest: hazard risk D−
207Tierra Verdeunincorporated, Pinellas County · 4,108 people50.4bottom 44.7%C+Strongest: health A, jobs & income A−·lowest: cost of living D−
208Inverness Highlands Northunincorporated, Citrus County · 2,830 people50.4bottom 44.7%C+Strongest: walkability A, jobs & income B·lowest: hazard risk D−
209Islamorada, Village of IslandsMonroe County · 6,955 people50.4bottom 44.7%C+Strongest: walkability A, health A−·lowest: cost of living D−
218Biscayne ParkMiami-Dade County · 3,062 people50.0bottom 43.8%C+Strongest: walkability A+, schools B+·lowest: cost of living D−
220Flagler BeachFlagler County · 5,595 people50.0bottom 43.7%C+Strongest: walkability A−, health B+·lowest: cost of living D−
227Clarconaunincorporated, Orange County · 3,850 people49.8bottom 43.0%C+Strongest: health B, schools B−·lowest: walkability C−
237Brookridgeunincorporated, Hernando County · 4,923 people49.5bottom 42.2%C+Strongest: cost of living A, schools B−·lowest: walkability C−
239St. Pete BeachPinellas County · 8,553 people49.4bottom 42.0%C+Strongest: walkability A, health A−·lowest: cost of living D−
240Indian Rocks BeachPinellas County · 3,563 people49.4bottom 41.9%C+Strongest: walkability A+, health B+·lowest: cost of living D−
242MacclennyBaker County · 8,251 people49.2bottom 41.5%C+Strongest: walkability A, cost of living B·lowest: schools C−
246McGregorunincorporated, Lee County · 8,490 people49.1bottom 41.2%C+Strongest: health A, jobs & income A−·lowest: hazard risk D
247Lake Panasoffkeeunincorporated, Sumter County · 4,768 people49.0bottom 41.0%C+Strongest: schools A, cost of living A−·lowest: jobs & income D
248Belle IsleOrange County · 7,688 people49.0bottom 41.0%C+Strongest: health A−, jobs & income B+·lowest: cost of living D
249North Merritt Islandunincorporated, Brevard County · 9,025 people49.0bottom 40.9%C+Strongest: health A−, schools B+·lowest: hazard risk D
250Hurlburt Fieldunincorporated, Okaloosa County · 2,951 people48.8bottom 40.3%C+Strongest: health A−, schools A−·lowest: cost of living D−
254Quail Ridgeunincorporated, Pasco County · 2,916 people48.7bottom 40.0%C+Strongest: jobs & income A−, schools B·lowest: walkability D−
255HilliardNassau County · 3,161 people48.6bottom 39.9%C+Strongest: schools A, hazard risk B−·lowest: jobs & income C−
260Ocean Cityunincorporated, Okaloosa County · 5,941 people48.4bottom 39.0%C+Strongest: schools A−, health B·lowest: hazard risk D
263Holmes BeachManatee County · 3,027 people48.3bottom 38.8%C+Strongest: walkability A+, health A−·lowest: hazard risk D−
264Williston Highlandsunincorporated, Levy County · 3,666 people48.3bottom 38.7%C+Strongest: cost of living A−, schools B·lowest: walkability D−
267Zephyrhills Northunincorporated, Pasco County · 2,831 people48.1bottom 38.2%C+Strongest: cost of living B+, schools B·lowest: hazard risk D
268West DeLandunincorporated, Volusia County · 3,632 people48.1bottom 38.2%C+Strongest: jobs & income B+, schools B−·lowest: hazard risk C−
269Lower Grand Lagoonunincorporated, Bay County · 4,287 people48.1bottom 38.1%C+Strongest: walkability A, health B+·lowest: hazard risk D−
273Three Oaksunincorporated, Lee County · 6,144 people48.0bottom 37.8%C+Strongest: health A, walkability A−·lowest: hazard risk D
275Wedgefieldunincorporated, Orange County · 8,851 people47.9bottom 37.7%C+Strongest: jobs & income A, health B+·lowest: cost of living D
276Kenneth CityPinellas County · 4,868 people47.9bottom 37.7%C+Strongest: walkability A, schools B·lowest: hazard risk D
279Winter Beachunincorporated, Indian River County · 4,985 people47.8bottom 37.3%C+Strongest: health A−, schools A−·lowest: hazard risk D−
280Meadow Oaksunincorporated, Pasco County · 3,705 people47.7bottom 37.2%C+Strongest: schools B, jobs & income B−·lowest: hazard risk C−
286Big Pine Keyunincorporated, Monroe County · 4,258 people47.4bottom 36.4%C+Strongest: walkability A−, schools B·lowest: hazard risk D−
289East Bronsonunincorporated, Levy County · 2,649 people47.2bottom 36.0%C+Strongest: cost of living A, schools B·lowest: health D
292Sharpesunincorporated, Brevard County · 2,840 people47.2bottom 35.7%C+Strongest: schools B+, walkability B+·lowest: hazard risk D
296Samsula-Spruce Creekunincorporated, Volusia County · 4,852 people47.2bottom 35.7%C+Strongest: jobs & income A, health B+·lowest: cost of living D−
297ParkerBay County · 4,832 people47.1bottom 35.6%C+Strongest: walkability A, schools B·lowest: hazard risk D−
300West MiamiMiami-Dade County · 7,125 people47.0bottom 35.5%C+Strongest: walkability A+, schools B+·lowest: cost of living D−
301Madeira BeachPinellas County · 3,940 people47.0bottom 35.5%C+Strongest: walkability A+, jobs & income A−·lowest: cost of living D−
302Fort Myers BeachLee County · 5,287 people46.9bottom 35.2%C+Strongest: walkability A+, jobs & income A−·lowest: cost of living D−
306Mimsunincorporated, Brevard County · 7,610 people46.9bottom 35.1%C+Strongest: schools B+, cost of living B+·lowest: hazard risk D
307Connertonunincorporated, Pasco County · 7,650 people46.7bottom 34.6%CStrongest: health A, schools B·lowest: cost of living D
308Whiskey Creekunincorporated, Lee County · 5,371 people46.6bottom 34.3%CStrongest: jobs & income A−, health A−·lowest: hazard risk D
310Rio Pinarunincorporated, Orange County · 4,985 people46.5bottom 34.2%CStrongest: jobs & income A−, health B+·lowest: cost of living D
311Treasure IslandPinellas County · 6,397 people46.5bottom 34.2%CStrongest: health A, jobs & income B+·lowest: cost of living D−
312Bal HarbourMiami-Dade County · 3,036 people46.5bottom 34.2%CStrongest: walkability A+, health A−·lowest: cost of living D−
316Daytona Beach ShoresVolusia County · 5,187 people46.4bottom 34.0%CStrongest: walkability A, health B·lowest: cost of living D−
324Stock Islandunincorporated, Monroe County · 4,162 people46.1bottom 33.1%CStrongest: walkability A+, schools B·lowest: hazard risk D−
327Clevelandunincorporated, Charlotte County · 2,683 people46.0bottom 32.8%CStrongest: walkability B+, health B·lowest: hazard risk D−
329Broadview Parkunincorporated, Broward County · 7,119 people45.9bottom 32.6%CStrongest: walkability A, schools B·lowest: cost of living C−
331IndiantownMartin County · 6,826 people45.9bottom 32.5%CStrongest: cost of living A−, schools B+·lowest: hazard risk D
336Doverunincorporated, Hillsborough County · 3,009 people45.8bottom 32.3%CStrongest: walkability A−, cost of living B·lowest: health C−
337Seffnerunincorporated, Hillsborough County · 8,885 people45.8bottom 32.2%CStrongest: jobs & income B+, walkability B·lowest: cost of living C−
338UmatillaLake County · 4,199 people45.7bottom 32.2%CStrongest: hazard risk B, schools B·lowest: cost of living C
339Miccounincorporated, Brevard County · 8,896 people45.6bottom 31.9%CStrongest: schools B+, cost of living B−·lowest: hazard risk D−
340Beacon Squareunincorporated, Pasco County · 7,895 people45.6bottom 31.8%CStrongest: walkability B+, schools B·lowest: health C−
342Pembroke ParkBroward County · 6,425 people45.5bottom 31.6%CStrongest: walkability A+, schools B·lowest: health D−
347South PasadenaPinellas County · 5,169 people45.3bottom 31.0%CStrongest: walkability B+, jobs & income B·lowest: cost of living D
348Hill 'n Daleunincorporated, Hernando County · 3,083 people45.3bottom 30.9%CStrongest: cost of living A−, schools B−·lowest: walkability D
352Fruitland ParkLake County · 9,543 people45.1bottom 30.4%CStrongest: hazard risk B, schools B·lowest: cost of living C−
353North Brooksvilleunincorporated, Hernando County · 4,227 people45.0bottom 30.3%CStrongest: cost of living A−, jobs & income B−·lowest: health D
358Lochmoor Waterway Estatesunincorporated, Lee County · 6,511 people44.9bottom 30.0%CStrongest: walkability B+, health B+·lowest: cost of living D
362North River Shoresunincorporated, Martin County · 3,633 people44.7bottom 29.4%CStrongest: health A−, schools B+·lowest: hazard risk D
373Richmond Heightsunincorporated, Miami-Dade County · 9,992 people44.2bottom 28.3%CStrongest: walkability A−, schools B+·lowest: cost of living D
374South Highpointunincorporated, Pinellas County · 4,174 people44.1bottom 28.2%CStrongest: walkability A, hazard risk B·lowest: health C−
376SanibelLee County · 6,303 people44.1bottom 28.0%CStrongest: health A−, walkability A−·lowest: hazard risk D
377Watertownunincorporated, Columbia County · 3,068 people44.1bottom 27.9%CStrongest: schools A−, cost of living B+·lowest: health D−
382Sky Lakeunincorporated, Orange County · 8,116 people43.9bottom 27.5%CStrongest: walkability A−, jobs & income B·lowest: health C−
385Ticeunincorporated, Lee County · 4,758 people43.8bottom 27.3%CStrongest: walkability A−, cost of living B+·lowest: health D
400Point Bakerunincorporated, Santa Rosa County · 3,976 people43.4bottom 26.4%CStrongest: schools A−, cost of living B·lowest: walkability D
403Mount Plymouthunincorporated, Lake County · 4,604 people43.3bottom 26.1%CStrongest: health B, schools B·lowest: walkability C−
405DeFuniak SpringsWalton County · 7,338 people43.2bottom 25.9%CStrongest: schools A, cost of living B+·lowest: jobs & income D−
407NewberryAlachua County · 8,618 people43.1bottom 25.7%CStrongest: health A−, jobs & income B·lowest: walkability C−
408MulberryPolk County · 4,573 people43.0bottom 25.4%CStrongest: walkability B+, cost of living B·lowest: schools D
409Dade City Northunincorporated, Pasco County · 2,803 people43.0bottom 25.4%CStrongest: schools B, cost of living B·lowest: jobs & income D
410Buckinghamunincorporated, Lee County · 4,311 people42.9bottom 25.2%CStrongest: jobs & income A−, health B·lowest: hazard risk D
416Nassau Village-Ratliffunincorporated, Nassau County · 4,737 people42.7bottom 24.7%C−Strongest: schools A, cost of living B·lowest: walkability D−
419Ormond-by-the-Seaunincorporated, Volusia County · 7,146 people42.4bottom 24.0%C−Strongest: walkability B+, health B·lowest: cost of living D
420White Cityunincorporated, St. Lucie County · 5,744 people42.3bottom 23.8%C−Strongest: jobs & income B+, walkability B−·lowest: hazard risk D
424South Apopkaunincorporated, Orange County · 7,300 people42.0bottom 23.3%C−Strongest: walkability A, hazard risk B−·lowest: jobs & income C−
429Memphisunincorporated, Manatee County · 9,185 people41.8bottom 22.9%C−Strongest: walkability A−, cost of living B−·lowest: hazard risk D
430Cocoa Westunincorporated, Brevard County · 5,923 people41.8bottom 22.8%C−Strongest: schools B+, cost of living B·lowest: health D−
431Verona Walkunincorporated, Collier County · 2,695 people41.8bottom 22.8%C−Strongest: schools A−, jobs & income B·lowest: cost of living D−
435Big Coppitt Keyunincorporated, Monroe County · 3,109 people41.5bottom 22.2%C−Strongest: schools B, jobs & income B·lowest: hazard risk D−
436BunnellFlagler County · 4,298 people41.5bottom 22.1%C−Strongest: walkability A, schools B+·lowest: jobs & income D
439Fort Pierce Northunincorporated, St. Lucie County · 7,224 people41.3bottom 21.7%C−Strongest: cost of living B+, walkability B+·lowest: hazard risk D
441Balmunincorporated, Hillsborough County · 7,181 people41.2bottom 21.5%C−Strongest: jobs & income B+, health B·lowest: walkability D
442Cortezunincorporated, Manatee County · 5,205 people41.2bottom 21.5%C−Strongest: walkability A, health B+·lowest: hazard risk D
443Westgateunincorporated, Palm Beach County · 8,151 people41.1bottom 21.4%C−Strongest: walkability A+, schools B+·lowest: health D
444South Brooksvilleunincorporated, Hernando County · 5,099 people41.0bottom 21.0%C−Strongest: walkability B, cost of living B−·lowest: jobs & income C−
451WillistonLevy County · 3,456 people40.5bottom 20.1%C−Strongest: walkability B, schools B·lowest: health D
456Timber Pinesunincorporated, Hernando County · 5,007 people40.3bottom 19.6%C−Strongest: health B−, schools B−·lowest: walkability C−
460Suncoast Estatesunincorporated, Lee County · 4,369 people40.0bottom 18.9%C−Strongest: walkability A, cost of living B·lowest: health D−
461Whitfieldunincorporated, Manatee County · 4,261 people39.8bottom 18.7%C−Strongest: walkability B+, jobs & income B·lowest: hazard risk D
464Alvaunincorporated, Lee County · 3,389 people39.6bottom 18.4%C−Strongest: jobs & income A−, health B·lowest: hazard risk D
467Giffordunincorporated, Indian River County · 4,668 people39.5bottom 18.2%C−Strongest: schools A−, walkability B·lowest: hazard risk D−
469Charlotte Harborunincorporated, Charlotte County · 4,239 people39.4bottom 18.0%C−Strongest: walkability B−, schools B−·lowest: hazard risk D
470Ridge Manorunincorporated, Hernando County · 3,935 people39.4bottom 17.9%C−Strongest: cost of living B+, schools B−·lowest: hazard risk D
477Seminole Manorunincorporated, Palm Beach County · 2,678 people39.0bottom 17.2%C−Strongest: schools B+, walkability B−·lowest: cost of living C−
481San Castleunincorporated, Palm Beach County · 3,052 people38.9bottom 16.8%C−Strongest: walkability A, schools B+·lowest: health D
485ChipleyWashington County · 3,804 people38.7bottom 16.4%C−Strongest: cost of living A−, schools C+·lowest: hazard risk D
486Silver Springsunincorporated, Marion County · 2,712 people38.7bottom 16.4%C−Strongest: walkability B+, cost of living B·lowest: schools D
487Orlovistaunincorporated, Orange County · 6,890 people38.6bottom 16.3%C−Strongest: walkability A−, schools B−·lowest: health D−
491Naples Manorunincorporated, Collier County · 5,501 people38.5bottom 16.0%C−Strongest: schools A−, jobs & income C+·lowest: hazard risk D−
494PahokeePalm Beach County · 5,794 people38.4bottom 16.0%C−Strongest: walkability A, cost of living B+·lowest: jobs & income D−
495Port RicheyPasco County · 3,655 people38.3bottom 15.6%C−Strongest: schools B, walkability B−·lowest: hazard risk D
499SpringfieldBay County · 8,551 people38.0bottom 15.1%C−Strongest: walkability B+, schools B·lowest: hazard risk D−
500Watergateunincorporated, Palm Beach County · 3,782 people37.9bottom 15.0%C−Strongest: walkability B+, schools B+·lowest: hazard risk C−
502Hernando Beachunincorporated, Hernando County · 2,675 people37.7bottom 14.7%DStrongest: jobs & income B, health B−·lowest: cost of living C−
505Live OakSuwannee County · 7,248 people37.5bottom 14.4%DStrongest: walkability B+, cost of living B−·lowest: jobs & income D
506High SpringsAlachua County · 6,762 people37.5bottom 14.4%DStrongest: health B, jobs & income B·lowest: cost of living D
509South BayPalm Beach County · 5,140 people37.4bottom 14.2%DStrongest: walkability A, schools B+·lowest: jobs & income D−
514Citrus Hillsunincorporated, Citrus County · 9,304 people37.1bottom 13.7%DStrongest: jobs & income B+, health B+·lowest: hazard risk D−
516Lecantounincorporated, Citrus County · 7,398 people37.0bottom 13.6%DStrongest: walkability C+, jobs & income C+·lowest: hazard risk D−
517Pensacola Stationunincorporated, Escambia County · 5,281 people37.0bottom 13.6%DStrongest: walkability A+, health A·lowest: cost of living D−
519Hutchinson Island Southunincorporated, St. Lucie County · 4,175 people37.0bottom 13.5%DStrongest: health B+, jobs & income B−·lowest: hazard risk D
520North Weeki Wacheeunincorporated, Hernando County · 8,979 people36.9bottom 13.4%DStrongest: walkability B, schools B−·lowest: hazard risk C−
521Lake ParkPalm Beach County · 9,125 people36.8bottom 13.3%DStrongest: walkability A, schools B+·lowest: safety D−
523River Parkunincorporated, St. Lucie County · 5,714 people36.7bottom 13.1%DStrongest: walkability B−, schools B−·lowest: hazard risk D−
524Lake Belvedere Estatesunincorporated, Palm Beach County · 2,672 people36.6bottom 13.0%DStrongest: schools B+, walkability B−·lowest: cost of living D−
525Olgaunincorporated, Lee County · 3,282 people36.4bottom 12.6%DStrongest: jobs & income A−, walkability C+·lowest: hazard risk D
530Samosetunincorporated, Manatee County · 5,284 people35.8bottom 11.7%DStrongest: walkability A−, cost of living B−·lowest: hazard risk D
531FrostproofPolk County · 3,519 people35.8bottom 11.6%DStrongest: cost of living A−, walkability A−·lowest: health D
534Ridgecrestunincorporated, Pinellas County · 3,571 people35.5bottom 11.3%DStrongest: walkability B, schools B·lowest: cost of living C−
535Roosevelt Gardensunincorporated, Broward County · 3,031 people35.5bottom 11.2%DStrongest: walkability A+, schools B·lowest: health D−
536InvernessCitrus County · 7,796 people35.5bottom 11.2%DStrongest: walkability A, cost of living C+·lowest: hazard risk D−
537West Samosetunincorporated, Manatee County · 7,429 people35.2bottom 10.8%DStrongest: walkability A, cost of living C+·lowest: health D−
541Fort Myers Shoresunincorporated, Lee County · 5,946 people34.7bottom 10.3%DStrongest: walkability A−, schools C+·lowest: hazard risk D
543MariannaJackson County · 7,289 people34.5bottom 10.0%DStrongest: walkability B, cost of living B·lowest: hazard risk C−
544Eastpointunincorporated, Franklin County · 3,163 people34.4bottom 9.9%DStrongest: walkability A−, cost of living B+·lowest: jobs & income D
546Gouldingunincorporated, Escambia County · 3,734 people34.2bottom 9.8%DStrongest: walkability A, cost of living B+·lowest: health D−
547St. James Cityunincorporated, Lee County · 3,412 people34.1bottom 9.6%DStrongest: health B, walkability B−·lowest: hazard risk D
548Fort Pierce Southunincorporated, St. Lucie County · 5,028 people34.1bottom 9.5%DStrongest: walkability B, schools B−·lowest: hazard risk D
552Fussels Cornerunincorporated, Polk County · 5,682 people33.7bottom 9.0%DStrongest: cost of living A−, jobs & income C·lowest: health D
553Alturasunincorporated, Polk County · 4,581 people33.6bottom 8.8%DStrongest: cost of living A−, jobs & income C+·lowest: health D
554Loughmanunincorporated, Polk County · 7,591 people33.4bottom 8.7%DStrongest: health B+, jobs & income B·lowest: cost of living D−
558Woodvilleunincorporated, Leon County · 3,722 people32.8bottom 7.9%DStrongest: cost of living B, schools B−·lowest: walkability D
559Floral Cityunincorporated, Citrus County · 5,437 people32.8bottom 7.8%DStrongest: cost of living B, schools C·lowest: hazard risk D−
564Mangonia ParkPalm Beach County · 2,667 people32.1bottom 7.0%DStrongest: walkability A+, schools B+·lowest: safety D−
571Inverness Highlands Southunincorporated, Citrus County · 7,449 people30.9bottom 5.8%DStrongest: cost of living C+, health C·lowest: hazard risk D−
573Crystal RiverCitrus County · 3,618 people30.7bottom 5.6%DStrongest: walkability A, schools C·lowest: hazard risk D−
574WauchulaHardee County · 4,946 people30.6bottom 5.5%DStrongest: walkability A, cost of living C+·lowest: health D−
576Beverly Hillsunincorporated, Citrus County · 9,650 people30.4bottom 5.3%DStrongest: walkability B+, cost of living C+·lowest: hazard risk D−
577Port St. JoeGulf County · 3,995 people30.3bottom 5.1%DStrongest: health B, walkability B·lowest: hazard risk D−
579Crystal Lakeunincorporated, Polk County · 5,451 people30.0bottom 4.9%D−Strongest: walkability A, hazard risk C+·lowest: health D
585Pine Manorunincorporated, Lee County · 3,660 people29.2bottom 4.1%D−Strongest: walkability A+, schools C+·lowest: hazard risk D
586Indian River Estatesunincorporated, St. Lucie County · 7,685 people28.9bottom 3.9%D−Strongest: schools B−, walkability C·lowest: hazard risk D
587CarrabelleFranklin County · 2,572 people28.9bottom 3.9%D−Strongest: cost of living B, walkability B−·lowest: jobs & income D−
588Harbour Heightsunincorporated, Charlotte County · 4,289 people28.8bottom 3.9%D−Strongest: health B−, schools B−·lowest: hazard risk D−
589ClewistonHendry County · 7,594 people28.8bottom 3.8%D−Strongest: walkability A, jobs & income C·lowest: schools D
590OkeechobeeOkeechobee County · 5,811 people28.6bottom 3.7%D−Strongest: walkability A, cost of living C+·lowest: hazard risk D
591Polk CityPolk County · 3,082 people28.4bottom 3.6%D−Strongest: jobs & income B, cost of living C·lowest: schools D
592MonticelloJefferson County · 2,767 people28.4bottom 3.6%D−Strongest: cost of living B, walkability B−·lowest: schools D−
595ChattahoocheeGadsden County · 3,011 people27.6bottom 3.0%D−Strongest: cost of living A+, hazard risk C·lowest: health D−
597Fort MeadePolk County · 5,379 people27.3bottom 2.8%D−Strongest: cost of living B, walkability B·lowest: health D−
598BonifayHolmes County · 2,839 people26.9bottom 2.5%D−Strongest: walkability B+, cost of living C+·lowest: jobs & income D−
599Wahnetaunincorporated, Polk County · 3,876 people26.6bottom 2.4%D−Strongest: cost of living A−, hazard risk C−·lowest: health D−
600Hernandounincorporated, Citrus County · 9,299 people26.3bottom 2.2%D−Strongest: cost of living C+, schools C·lowest: hazard risk D−
601Inwoodunincorporated, Polk County · 7,556 people26.3bottom 2.2%D−Strongest: walkability B−, cost of living B−·lowest: health D−
602Crooked Lake Parkunincorporated, Polk County · 2,641 people26.2bottom 2.1%D−Strongest: cost of living C+, jobs & income C+·lowest: health D
604Rainbow Lakes Estatesunincorporated, Levy County · 3,762 people25.6bottom 1.9%D−Strongest: cost of living B, hazard risk C·lowest: walkability D
605MidwayGadsden County · 3,482 people25.6bottom 1.9%D−Strongest: walkability B−, cost of living C+·lowest: schools D−
606StarkeBradford County · 5,963 people25.5bottom 1.9%D−Strongest: cost of living B−, walkability C·lowest: health D
608MadisonMadison County · 2,988 people25.1bottom 1.6%D−Strongest: walkability A, cost of living C·lowest: health D−
611Jan Phyl Villageunincorporated, Polk County · 5,708 people24.6bottom 1.5%D−Strongest: walkability B, cost of living C·lowest: schools D
612QuincyGadsden County · 8,162 people24.4bottom 1.4%D−Strongest: cost of living B, walkability C+·lowest: health D−
613JasperHamilton County · 3,444 people24.3bottom 1.4%D−Strongest: cost of living A−, hazard risk C−·lowest: jobs & income D−
614Rainbow Springsunincorporated, Marion County · 6,082 people24.3bottom 1.3%D−Strongest: health C, jobs & income C·lowest: schools D
616Lake HamiltonPolk County · 3,007 people23.6bottom 1.1%D−Strongest: walkability C+, safety C+·lowest: health D
618BelleviewMarion County · 6,512 people23.5bottom 1.1%D−Strongest: walkability C+, hazard risk C+·lowest: schools D
619LaBelleHendry County · 5,754 people23.3bottom 1.1%D−Strongest: walkability B+, cost of living C·lowest: schools D
620Combee Settlementunincorporated, Polk County · 5,242 people22.4bottom 0.8%D−Strongest: walkability B−, cost of living C+·lowest: health D−
621Willow Oakunincorporated, Polk County · 7,454 people22.0bottom 0.7%D−Strongest: cost of living C, jobs & income C·lowest: walkability D
623ArcadiaDeSoto County · 8,046 people21.7bottom 0.7%D−Strongest: walkability B+, cost of living C+·lowest: health D−
625Kathleenunincorporated, Polk County · 7,201 people21.5bottom 0.7%D−Strongest: cost of living C+, jobs & income C·lowest: walkability D−
626PerryTaylor County · 7,330 people21.4bottom 0.6%D−Strongest: walkability A−, cost of living C+·lowest: jobs & income D−
627Lake PlacidHighlands County · 2,599 people21.2bottom 0.6%D−Strongest: walkability A−, hazard risk C·lowest: jobs & income D−
628Southeast Arcadiaunincorporated, DeSoto County · 7,555 people20.8bottom 0.5%D−Strongest: walkability B−, cost of living B−·lowest: health D−
629Eagle LakePolk County · 6,415 people20.1bottom 0.5%D−Strongest: jobs & income C+, hazard risk C·lowest: schools D
630DundeePolk County · 6,424 people19.2bottom 0.4%D−Strongest: walkability C+, jobs & income C·lowest: health D−
631Taylor Creekunincorporated, Okeechobee County · 4,457 people18.9bottom 0.3%D−Strongest: cost of living B−, walkability C·lowest: hazard risk D−
632Grenelefeunincorporated, Polk County · 2,797 people16.7bottom 0.1%D−Strongest: jobs & income B−, cost of living D·lowest: walkability D−
633Port LaBelleunincorporated, Glades County · 7,923 people15.7bottom 0.1%D−Strongest: jobs & income C, cost of living C−·lowest: health D
634Monturaunincorporated, Hendry County · 4,121 people13.8bottom 0.1%D−Strongest: cost of living C+, hazard risk D·lowest: walkability D−
Method
How this list is made
Each town’s overall grade blends seven livability grades: cost of living (weight 18), safety (18), schools (16), health (14), jobs & income (12), walkability (8) and hazard risk (4). A town needs 2,500+ residents and three of the first four. Letters are national, so an A here means the same as an A in any state; the list is the same towns in the same order, ranked within Florida. Towns without their own FBI figures are graded on the rest and their page says why.
Data years: crime 2023–2025 (FBI), Census ACS 2020–2024, CDC PLACES 2025, state school tests. How grades work
Quick answers
Questions people ask
What is the best small town in Florida?
Among 284 graded towns of 2,500 to 9,999 residents, Bagdad (Santa Rosa County) ranks first, with an A+; cost of living (A) and jobs & income (A−) are its strongest grades; hazard risk (D) is its lowest. St. Augustine South and Kensington Park follow.
How are these towns ranked?
By the overall grade, which blends seven livability grades from public data. The letter is national; the rank is within Florida. The full method is on How grades work.
Why isn’t my town on this list?
The list covers towns of 2,500 to 9,999 residents with an overall grade (284 in Florida). 141 smaller places have subject grades only; 3 towns of 2,500+ lack enough data for a grade; Larger towns are on the best places to live list. Every town is on the Florida page.
Go deeper
All Florida rankings →More Florida lists
Every list ranks the same 2,500+ towns, so a town’s rank means the same thing on each.
Best places to live634 towns · #1 BagdadMost affordable towns637 towns · #1 ChattahoocheeSafest towns128 towns · #1 NicevilleTowns with the best schools638 towns · #1 Butler Beach and Flagler Estates and Fruit Cove and Nocatee and Palm Valley and Sawgrass and St. Augustine and St. Augustine Beach and St. Augustine Shores and St. Augustine South and World Golf VillageHealthiest towns636 towns · #1 Bay HillBest towns for jobs & income638 towns · #1 Southwest RanchesMost walkable towns638 towns · #1 Miami BeachTowns with the lowest natural-hazard risk638 towns · #1 TaftBest towns for the outdoors638 towns · #1 Juno BeachMost historic towns638 towns · #1 St. AugustineTowns with the most civic life273 towns · #1 Marco IslandTowns with the mildest winters555 towns · #1 Key West and Stock IslandDescribed, no lettersTowns with the hottest summers555 towns · #1 Ave MariaDescribed, no lettersTowns with the coolest summers555 towns · #1 Key LargoDescribed, no lettersTowns with the highest incomes638 towns · #1 PinecrestDescribed, no lettersTowns with the lowest property taxes623 towns · #1 Silver SpringsDescribed, no lettersFastest-growing towns272 towns · #1 Eagle LakeDescribed, no lettersTowns with the most-used libraries19 towns · #1 North Miami BeachDescribed, no letters
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