Nestled in Central Florida, Windermere is an exquisite location known for its picturesque lakes, opulent neighborhoods, and proximity to major attractions. As with many luxurious locations, the cost of living in Windermere is higher than the national average. Are you considering moving to this beautiful town but worried about the expenses? Fear not, as we unveil the factors contributing to the cost of living in Windermere and answer the question, “is Windermere FL expensive?”
In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into various aspects of life in Windermere, including housing, transportation, food, taxes, and healthcare, as well as compare it to other Central Florida cities. We’ll also discuss the impact of high-income households and explore the luxurious lifestyle and amenities that Windermere has to offer.
Windermere’s cost of living is higher than the national average due to factors such as expensive housing, transportation and commuting costs.
Food and grocery costs in Windermere are In line with the national average, though various factors can affect pricing.
Living affordably in Windermere can be achieved through budgeting strategies, exploration of neighborhoods, and utilization of local amenities & resources.
Windermere’s cost of living surpasses the national average, with housing, transportation, and food costs all playing pivotal roles in the overall expenses of living in this idyllic town. The Economic Policy Institute’s county-level data has been assigned to Windermere, providing us with important living data to estimate the Windermere cost of living in this region. A single adult living in Windermere can expect a total cost of living of $37,771. For affordable housing, one should follow the 28% rule. This rule suggests that your monthly rent or the sum of your monthly mortgage, property taxes, and insurance shouldn’t go beyond 28% of your gross income. When budgeting, the 50-30-20 rule can be a helpful guideline, allocating 50% of net income to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings and investments.
Next, we will analyze Windermere’s cost of living by looking at the housing market, transportation and commuting expenses, and food and grocery costs. This information will provide a clearer understanding of the factors that contribute to the higher cost of living in Windermere, Florida.
The housing market in Windermere is rather expensive, with median home values and rental prices considerably higher than the national average. Here are some statistics to give you an idea:
The median price of a home in Windermere stands at a whopping $815,000.
The cost of housing in Windermere is $689,100, which is 103.8% higher than the national average of $338,100.
Windermere’s cost of living index for housing is 110.3% of the national average.
Renters in Windermere can expect to pay an average of $1,989 for a 2-bed home, with prices varying depending on the property’s square footage. For a two-bedroom unit, the average rent in Windermere is $2,410 per month, which may be affordable or expensive depending on the median income of the residents. On average, tenants in Windermere incur a monthly housing expense of $1,638, making housing a significant expense for residents.
The high housing prices in Windermere can be attributed to various factors, such as:
The presence of gated communities
Luxury neighborhoods
High-income households
The town’s closeness to attractions such as Disney World and downtown Orlando
These factors enhance the appeal of the fl housing market, increasing demand and property prices, while impacting housing affordability.
While the cost of living in Windermere is higher than the national average, transportation expenses in the area are relatively lower. The average annual transportation cost for a single adult in Windermere is $8,888, which contributes to the overall cost of living in Florida. The primary public transportation option in Windermere is the LYNX bus system, which provides:
Regular service buses for travel between towns in the Lake District
Mini buses for travel within the area
Combination bus and boat tickets for cruises on Windermere, Ullswater, Coniston Derwent, or Derwent water.
In addition to public transportation, car owners in Windermere can expect to pay an average of $2,055 for car insurance. Using public transportation and considering alternatives for commuting, residents can lower their transportation expenses, thus making life in Windermere more cost-effective.
When it comes to food and grocery costs in Windermere, they are fairly comparable to the national average. Data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture reveals that a family of four in Windermere spends around $9,441 annually on food, slightly higher than the national average of $9,354, indicating a small price difference.
Several factors can affect food prices in Windermere, such as:
Global trade issues
Weather events
Increases in global agricultural commodity prices
Packaging and processing costs
Transportation costs
Inflation concerns
Booths is a popular grocery store in Windermere, renowned for its selection of regional produce. Unfortunately, specific data comparing their prices to other grocery stores in the area is not readily available. Shopping smartly and benefiting from sales and discounts at local grocery stores can help residents manage their food and grocery costs in Windermere.
Windermere’s cost of living is higher than other Central Florida cities, such as Orlando and Winter Park, largely due to its high-income households and luxury neighborhoods. The typical cost of living in Central Florida cities is estimated to be $7,769 per month or $93,228 per year. Housing markets also differ between Windermere and nearby cities like Kissimmee; while both markets are competitive, Windermere is considered a seller’s market with higher prices and faster selling times.
The higher cost of living in Windermere can be attributed to its proximity to Orlando area theme parks and high-priced cities, as well as the overall higher cost of living in the area. Despite the higher cost of living, Windermere offers a luxurious lifestyle, with gated communities, luxury neighborhoods, and proximity to attractions and entertainment.
Windermere’s overall wealth and elevated cost of living are influenced by the town’s high-income households. The median household income in Windermere is notably higher than the average in Central Florida. Famous residents such as sports personalities Tiger Woods and Shaquille O’Neal have also called Windermere home.
The prevalence of high-income households in Windermere can have several effects on the local economy and living costs. These effects include:
Pushing up housing prices
Spurring demand for luxury goods and services
Increasing living costs in the area
Increasing property values due to a greater capacity to purchase higher-priced homes
Windermere offers a luxurious lifestyle with gated communities, luxury neighborhoods, and proximity to attractions and entertainment. Notable gated communities in Windermere include Lake Roper Pointe and the surrounding lakes of Lake Butler, Lake Sound, and Lake Bessie. These communities typically offer 24-hour security, golf courses, golf clubhouses, dining options, and access to other recreational facilities. Keene’s Pointe is one of the most esteemed luxury neighborhoods in Windermere, offering a variety of home styles and property types, as well as an array of amenities and features designed to enhance the living experience.
Located just 12.3 miles from downtown Orlando, Windermere is at the heart of Central Florida’s attractions and entertainment scene. With easy access to:
Walt Disney World
Universal Orlando Resort
SeaWorld Orlando
and other popular attractions
Living in Windermere offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city excitement.
Windermere FL is home to several prominent gated communities and luxury neighborhoods, such as:
The average price of homes in Isleworth, a prestigious gated community, is approximately $3.5 million. Keenes Pointe, another esteemed luxury neighborhood, provides its residents with exclusive resort-style amenities, such as The Golden Bear Club.
Lake Butler Sound is another luxurious neighborhood in Windermere, known for its exclusive gated community, opulent amenities, and remarkable waterfront properties. The neighborhood offers a sense of privacy and security with its gated entrance and 24-hour security. The homes in Lake Butler Sound are known for their luxurious features, expansive layouts, and superior craftsmanship.
Furthermore, the neighborhood is surrounded by picturesque lakes and lush landscapes, providing a tranquil and upscale living environment.
One of the many advantages of living in Windermere is its close proximity to major attractions and entertainment venues. Windermere is approximately 10 miles southwest of Walt Disney World, offering residents easy access to the theme park and its surrounding attractions. In addition to Disney World, Windermere residents can enjoy nearby attractions such as:
Universal Orlando Resort
SeaWorld Orlando
Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Amway Center
Windermere’s close proximity to Lake Butler also offers a myriad of recreational activities, such as boating, fishing, and water sports on the Butler Chain of Lakes. With its luxurious lifestyle, gated communities, and access to world-class attractions, Windermere is an attractive location for those seeking a balance between small-town living and big-city excitement.
Education and child care expenses in Windermere are lower than the national average. The annual cost for two children in Windermere is $12,062, making it more affordable for families with young children compared to other areas in the country. The typical annual expense for child care for two children in Windermere is $12,062, providing a cost-effective option for working parents.
Beyond lower child care costs, Windermere offers many educational options, including private schools with an average annual tuition of $27,195. Parents can also take advantage of after-school programs and activities in Windermere, with rates varying depending on the provider. Families can find the best fit for their needs in Windermere by considering various child care and educational opportunities.
Health care and insurance costs in Windermere are slightly higher than the national average. The yearly health care cost for a single adult in Windermere is $4,427, which exceeds both the national and state averages. The average cost of health insurance in Windermere is $599 per month for a 40-year-old purchasing a Silver plan. Factors that can influence health care costs in Windermere include health behaviors, risk factors, social determinants, lack of insurance, inappropriate use of healthcare services, age, education, income, and payment models that reward quantity over efficiency.
The cost of specific health services, such as emergency room visits, can be quite high in Windermere. Patients without health insurance can expect to pay over $2,200 for an emergency room visit, depending on the complexity of the condition. Residents can find the best fit for their needs and budget in Windermere by considering different health care and insurance options.
Taxes in Windermere are comparable to the national average. Here are some key tax figures for Windermere:
An adult working in Windermere pays $5,569 annually in state and federal income taxes, Social Security contributions, and Medicare payroll taxes.
The per capita state tax collections in Florida are $2,158 per year.
Property tax rates in Windermere can be found on the Orange County Tax Collector’s website.
The sales tax rate in Windermere is 6.5%, equivalent to the national average.
While Florida does not have an inheritance tax, residents may still be subject to the federal estate tax. By understanding Windermere’s various taxes and financial considerations, residents can plan their financial future better, make knowledgeable decisions about their living expenses, and be aware of the fl cost implications.
By implementing smart budgeting strategies, exploring various neighborhoods, and utilizing local amenities and resources, living affordably in Windermere is achievable. Some tips for living affordably in Windermere include:
Following the Orange County budget plan, which exemplifies fiscal responsibility
Using websites like Redfin and PropertyShark to find reasonably priced properties for sale in Windermere
Shopping at cost-efficient alternatives for groceries and shopping, such as Aldi and Publix at Lakeside Village.
Aside from budgeting and smart shopping, residents can use amenities and resources that can lower the cost of living in Windermere, like a free cost of living calculator and assisted living facilities for retirees. By carpooling, utilizing public transportation, and economizing on fuel, residents can also lower their transportation costs. With prudent planning and intelligent financial decisions, affordable living in Windermere can be achieved.
In conclusion, Windermere offers a luxurious lifestyle with a higher cost of living compared to the national average and other Central Florida cities. Factors such as housing, transportation, and food contribute to the overall cost, while high-income households and luxury neighborhoods add to the town’s overall wealth. Despite the higher cost of living, Windermere provides a variety of amenities, attractions, and educational opportunities for its residents.
By understanding the various aspects of living in Windermere and making informed financial decisions, residents can enjoy the luxurious lifestyle and small-town charm that the area has to offer. With its beautiful scenery, gated communities, and proximity to major attractions, Windermere is a desirable location for those seeking an upscale and comfortable living experience.
In 2021, the median household income of Windermere, FL households was $131,392.
The median price of a home in Windermere is $815,000, providing insight into the area's expensive real estate market.