West Palm Beach, FL vs Lakeland, FL: 119 vs 82

$1,709/mo ↑ 32%

Median Rent

$1,299/mo ↓ 24%

$69,261/yr ↑ 14%

Median Income

$60,947/yr ↓ 12%

$369,800 ↑ 61%

Home Value

$229,100 ↓ 38%

$1,667/mo ↑ 45%

Owner Costs

$1,149/mo ↓ 31%

119,508

Population

117,030

Detailed Comparison

When comparing West Palm Beach, FL and Lakeland, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 119 and 82 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $410/month cheaper in Lakeland, saving renters about $4,920/year.

Median household income is $8,314/year higher in West Palm Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in West Palm Beach is $369,800 compared to $229,100 in Lakeland.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Florida.

Frequently Asked Questions

West Palm Beach vs Lakeland — common questions

Is West Palm Beach or Lakeland cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lakeland is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between West Palm Beach and Lakeland?

Median rent in West Palm Beach is $1,709/month and in Lakeland it's $1,299/month — a difference of $410/month.

Which city has higher income, West Palm Beach or Lakeland?

Median household income is $69,261 in West Palm Beach and $60,947 in Lakeland. Median household income is $8,314/year higher in West Palm Beach.

How do taxes compare between Florida and Florida?

Both cities are in Florida and share the same state tax rates: 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.

Should I move to West Palm Beach or Lakeland?

It depends on your priorities. West Palm Beach has a cost index of 119 with median rent of $1,709/mo, while Lakeland has a cost index of 82 with rent of $1,299/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: West Palm Beach, FL vs Lakeland, FL (2026)

West Palm Beach

Lakeland

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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