Here’s How Much Gen Z Will Shell Out on Rent Before Turning 30: Top 5 Metros in Florida

As they cruise through their 20s, Gen Zers are quickly figuring out the ropes of renting in some of the most popular cities in Florida. Living in cool places like Miami, Orlando, Sarasota, Tampa, and Jacksonville means rent is a significant slice of Zoomers’ budget between the ages of 22 and 29. But just how big a slice are we talking by the time they hit 30?

Our curiosity led us to dive into the spending habits of Gen Zers who rent in these bustling metro areas. Turns out, Gen Z renters in Florida will have shelled out slightly more than $142,000, on average, on rent before reaching their 30th birthday.

Let’s delve into the details and see how much of Zoomers’ hard-earned money is set to go toward rent in these five metros in Florida between the ages of 22 and 29.

Miami is a cool yet pricey paradise for Gen Z renters in Florida

In the Miami metro area, Gen Z renters can expect to make about $520,000 by the time they turn 30. However, they are also likely to shell out close to $184,000 of that on rent between the ages of 22 and 29.

While apartments in Miami may be hard to come by, this place compensates Gen Z renters with a mix of lively nightlife, cultural diversity, and endless beaches. But this experience also involves dedicating a substantial part of their earnings to rent, as they search for the right balance of affordability, comfort, and location in the nation’s most competitive rental market.

Orlando beckons Gen Z renters seeking a fun oasis

Known for its theme parks and entertainment options, Orlando offers Gen Z renters an unmatched lifestyle. With projected earnings of almost $508,000 before hitting the big 3-0, Zoomers in Orlando will have spent almost $159,000 on rent in their 20s.

Orlando’s unique vibe, coupled with a growing job market, makes it an attractive place for the Gen Z crowd. Yet, the challenge remains to secure apartments in Orlando that allow them to enjoy all the attractions in the area without stretching their budgets too thin.

Sarasota Zoomers will fork out slightly less on rent

Gen Z renters in the Sarasota metro area enjoy a slightly higher earning potential, with more than $516,000 expected by age 30. Their rental expenses, however, are projected to total almost $156,000 during their 20s, less than what they would spend in Miami or Orlando.

Sarasota presents a blend of coastal charm, arts, and culture, appealing to those seeking a quieter life away from the hustle of large cities. Gen Z renters here balance the tranquility of coastal living with the costs of apartments in Sarasota associated with being so close to the shore.

Tampa offers a balanced mix for Gen Z renters

The Tampa metro area offers Gen Z renters a balance of urban and suburban living. With expected earnings of about $518,000 and rental expenses nearing $150,000 by age 30, Gen Zers in Tampa get a more budget-friendly alternative compared to Miami, its eastern neighbor.

The growing tech and healthcare sectors, combined with the area’s rich cultural heritage and outdoor offerings, make it an appealing spot for Gen Z renters. The challenge lies in finding apartments in Tampa that provide the convenience of city life without the hefty price tag.

Jacksonville is increasingly popular for budget-conscious Zoomers

Jacksonville, the largest city by area in the continental U.S., offers Gen Z renters more breathing room, both physically and financially. With projected earnings slightly above $477,000 by age 30 and about $137,000 of that spent on rent, Jacksonville stands as the most affordable metro on our radar.

Jacksonville’s ample parks, rivers, and beaches provide a backdrop for a lifestyle that merges urban living with nature. For Gen Z, renting in Jacksonville offers the chance to be part of a place that promises growth and opportunity.

For Gen Zers renting in Florida, the path through their 20s is a delicate dance between income and expenses, especially when it comes to housing. Each metro area offers its own mix of opportunities and challenges. Understanding these dynamics is essential for Zoomers looking to rent in Florida, as it helps them navigate the rental market successfully. So, as they edge closer to a future where homeownership may come into play, the experiences and insights gained in Florida’s apartment scene will undoubtedly hold significant sway.

Curious to know how much Gen Z is anticipated to spend on rent before turning 30 in other parts of the country? Here’s our projection for the top 5 metros in Texas.