Is Gainesville, FL a Good Place to Live in 2024?

What is Gainesville, FL known for?

Gainesville is located in north-central Florida. In Gainesville, the natural springs hold an ethereal allure, drawing both young and old to their waters. The city is a hub for academia, often making education a shared communal value. Small businesses, usually owned by locals, offer unique products that give the city a distinct flavor.

The city, which tends to be liberal, fosters a diverse community encompassing multiple races and minority groups. The atmosphere is generally open-minded, making space for varying sexual orientations. While the overall vibe leans towards the younger generation due to the influence of academic institutions, the demographic mix is still eclectic.

Students find the city's academic culture stimulating and rich. Families are drawn to the mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, which provides a varied setting for raising children. Retirees appreciate the quieter, leafy neighborhoods and the arts and cultural scenes. Couples and singles often gravitate towards the city's thriving nightlife and social events. People of all backgrounds, beliefs, and genders generally find Gainesville an accepting and inclusive community.

Highlights

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Pros and Cons

The Pros of living in Gainesville, FL, include natural beauty, academic culture, diverse communities, and more. While some Cons are around seasonal weather, student-centric, and constrained career options.
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Safety and Crime

Gainesville, FL is ranked 257th out of the top 333 most populated cities in the US for highest overall safety, is ranked 281st on safety from violent crime, and 208th on safety from property crime.
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Cost of Living

Compared to the rest of the US, the cost of living in Gainesville, FL is 23% lower than the national average.
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Discretionary Income

A gross annual salary of $80,000 in Gainesville, FL leaves $2,357 of “money in the pocket” per month on average.
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Climate and Weather

The average daily temperature in Gainesville, FL in January is 56°F and 84°F in July. Compared to the rest of the 333 most populated cities in the US, this city is on average +13°F warmer in January and is on average +5°F warmer in July.
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Politics and Voting

Gainesville, FL voted for the Democrat party in the 2020 Presidential election, with 62.9% of the votes counted going to this party.
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