Cost of Living in Palatka, FL
Population 10,558 · Florida · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Household incomes in Palatka run well below national norms — a median of $33,628 versus the $74,580 US figure. Housing costs partially offset that gap (typical home values around $112,000). Unemployment has stayed elevated relative to the national figure — 7.3% as of the most recent ACS release — which shows up in household-income and poverty figures as well.
Geographically, Palatka is about 40 miles east of Gainesville, the nearest large metro. Median home values run roughly 52% lower than Gainesville's $235,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Palatka
The median home value in Palatka is $112,300 — 63% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $914/month, 30% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $33,628/year is 55% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 7.3%, above the national average of 4.8%. Florida charges no state income tax, a meaningful advantage for take-home pay. Overall, Palatka has a cost of living index of 50 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 50% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Palatka, FL?
Palatka has a cost index of 50 (100 = national average). It is 50% below the national average.
What is average rent in Palatka, FL?
The median gross rent in Palatka is $914 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Palatka?
The median home value in Palatka is $112,300 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Palatka?
The median household income in Palatka is $33,628 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Palatka, FL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Palatka is 7.0%. Florida has no state income tax.
Is Palatka, FL affordable?
Yes, Palatka is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 50 — about 50% below the US national average of 100.
Palatka at a Glance
- Population
- 10,558
- Median Income
- $33,628
- Home Value
- $112,300
- Median Rent
- $914/mo
- Unemployment
- 7.3%
- Sales Tax
- 7.0%
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Explore county-level cost of living data
Florida Rankings
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