Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Dowling Park, FL
Considering a move to Dowling Park, FL? This close-knit community of about 3,200 residents offers a peaceful, affordable lifestyle with a median home price of $136,000 and average rents around $925. Crime rates are below national averages, and most commutes are a quick 18 minutes. Enjoy abundant sunshine (66% sunny days), mild winters, and proximity to essential healthcare and schools. While education and income levels are modest, Dowling Park’s quiet charm and low cost of living make it a great spot for retirees or anyone seeking a slower pace.
Demographics - Dowling Park, FL
Demographics - Dowling Park, FL
Dowling Park is a small, close-knit community of about 3,200 residents, with a notably high median age of 62.5, making it popular among retirees. The population is predominantly White, with a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers. Residents enjoy a peaceful, low-density environment ideal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Population:
3,200
Density:
250 per sq mi
Median Age:
62.5
Gender Ratio:
85 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
89.8%
Black:
6.1%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
3.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Dowling Park, FL?
Dowling Park offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $136,000 and average rents around $925 per month. The absence of state income tax and a cost of living index of 82.5 mean your dollar stretches further here than in many other Florida cities. Utilities and essential expenses remain manageable, attracting those looking for value and comfort.
Median House Value:
$136,000
Gross Rent:
$925
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,110
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
0% (no state income tax)
|
High:
0% (no state income tax)
Cost Of Living Index:
82.5
Grocery:
97.2
Housing:
68.4
Utilities:
98.7
Transportation:
92.3
Health Care:
97.8
Miscellaneous:
93.5
Crime
Is Dowling Park, FL a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Dowling Park are lower than the national average, with a chance of violent crime at just 1 in 472 and property crime at 1 in 63. The overall crime index suggests that residents can enjoy a safe and secure environment. This makes the community particularly appealing for families and retirees seeking peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
212
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,590
Crime Index:
1,802
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 472
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 63
Weather
What is the weather like in Dowling Park, FL year-round?
Dowling Park boasts a warm, sunny climate with 66% of days filled with sunshine and mild winters where temperatures rarely dip below 41°F. Summers are hot but manageable, and the area receives about 55 inches of rainfall annually, supporting lush landscapes. The pleasant weather is ideal for outdoor activities year-round.

Winter
Min:
41°F
Max:
67°F

Spring
Min:
55°F
Max:
80°F

Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
92°F

Fall
Min:
56°F
Max:
81°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
55.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
66%
Neighbors
Residents of Dowling Park enjoy a friendly, laid-back atmosphere with a median household income of $34,500 and a poverty rate of 18.9%. Most people commute less than 20 minutes to work, reflecting the town’s relaxed pace. Educational attainment is moderate, with over 80% of adults having completed high school.
Median Income:
$25,000
Household Income:
$34,500
Family Income:
$41,200
Per Capita Income:
$18,800
Income Male:
$28,000
Income Female:
$23,500
Poverty Rate:
18.9%
Non English Speakers:
4.1%
Rent:
$925
Unemployment Rate:
4.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
18.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
82.7%
Bachelors or More:
12.4%
Education
How are the schools in Dowling Park, FL?
Families in Dowling Park benefit from access to well-rated public schools in Live Oak, such as Suwannee Elementary and Suwannee High, which maintain reasonable student-teacher ratios. Private education options and nearby colleges, including North Florida College and Florida Gateway College, offer additional choices for learners of all ages. The community supports lifelong learning within a supportive, small-town setting.

Public Schools
Name:
Suwannee Elementary School
Street:
1748 South Ohio Ave, Live Oak, FL 32064
Phone:
386-647-4400
Students:
750
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.9
Name:
Suwannee High School
Street:
1314 Pine Ave, Live Oak, FL 32064
Phone:
386-647-4000
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.2

Private Schools
Name:
Melody Christian Academy
Street:
920 11th St SW, Live Oak, FL 32064
Phone:
386-362-6606
Students:
210

Colleges
Name:
North Florida College
City:
Madison
State:
FL
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
1,200
Name:
Florida Gateway College
City:
Lake City
State:
FL
Distance:
34 miles
Students:
4,000
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Dowling Park is supported by nearby facilities, including both general and long-term care centers like Shands Live Oak Regional Medical Center. With about 1.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 87% health insurance coverage, essential services are within easy reach. The community offers reliable care options for both routine and emergency needs.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Suwannee Health and Rehabilitation Center
Address:
1620 Helvenston St SE, Live Oak, FL 32064
Phone:
(386) 362-7860
Type:
Long-Term & Rehabilitation
Emergency Services:
No
Name:
Shands Live Oak Regional Medical Center
Address:
1100 SW 11th St, Live Oak, FL 32064
Phone:
(386) 362-0800
Type:
General & Emergency
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.7%
Health Care Index:
68.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Dowling Park, FL?
The housing market in Dowling Park is highly affordable, featuring a median home price of $136,000 and an owner-occupied rate of over 77%. Rental options are available with average two-bedroom rents at $925 and a low vacancy rate. Recent home appreciation and minimal foreclosure activity indicate a stable, attractive market for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$136,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$925
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in nearby Live Oak. The local DMV office provides a full range of motor vehicle services and can be contacted by phone or online. This ensures quick access to essential transportation needs for Dowling Park locals.
State:
Florida
Department:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Address:
215 Pine Ave SW, Live Oak, FL 32064
Phone:
850-617-2000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.