Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Gainesville, FL
Thinking of moving to Gainesville, FL? With a lively population of 146,000, affordable median home prices around $295,000, and average rents near $1,380, Gainesville is an energetic college town known for its youthful vibe and top-ranked University of Florida. The cost of living is below the national average, commutes are quick at under 20 minutes, and the city enjoys warm weather and 65% sunny days each year. While crime is higher than average, the city’s strong educational opportunities, abundant healthcare, and vibrant culture make it an appealing choice for students, families, and professionals alike.
Demographics - Gainesville, FL
Demographics - Gainesville, FL
Gainesville is home to about 146,000 residents, with a notably young median age of 26.6 years, reflecting its status as a college town. The population is diverse, with significant White, Black, and Asian communities, and about 18.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The city also maintains a balanced gender ratio and moderate population density, contributing to its energetic and inclusive atmosphere.
Population:
146,000
Density:
2,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
26.6
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
18.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
56.2%
Black:
20.5%
Asian:
7.1%
Others:
16.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Gainesville, FL?
Living in Gainesville is relatively affordable, with a median home value of $295,000 and average rents around $1,380 per month. The overall cost of living index sits just below the national average, and Florida’s lack of state income tax helps residents keep more of their earnings. Utilities and transportation costs are modest, making Gainesville an attractive option for budget-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$295,000
Gross Rent:
$1,380
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$2,150
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,575
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$525
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
97.4
Grocery:
97.8
Housing:
91.5
Utilities:
104.5
Transportation:
98.2
Health Care:
94.7
Miscellaneous:
96.1
Crime
Is Gainesville, FL a safe place to live?
Gainesville experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with a chance of property crime at about 1 in 35 and violent crime at 1 in 240. While these rates are above national averages, many neighborhoods remain safe and community-focused. Awareness of local crime trends can help new residents choose the best areas for their needs.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
417
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,850
Crime Index:
3,267
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 240
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 35
Weather
What is the weather like in Gainesville, FL year-round?
Gainesville enjoys a warm and sunny climate, with summer highs reaching the low 90s and mild winters rarely dipping below the mid-40s. The area receives about 50.5 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 65% sunny days, making outdoor activities popular year-round. Seasonal changes are gentle, contributing to a comfortable living environment.
Winter
Min:
44°F
Max:
70°F
Spring
Min:
57°F
Max:
83°F
Summer
Min:
72°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
58°F
Max:
83°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
50.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
65%
Neighbors
Gainesville’s community is shaped by a median household income of $42,600 and a notable poverty rate of 26.2%, influenced by its large student population. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly half hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Commutes are short, averaging under 20 minutes, and public transportation is available for those who prefer not to drive.
Median Income:
$27,900
Household Income:
$42,600
Family Income:
$61,200
Per Capita Income:
$25,100
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$29,500
Poverty Rate:
26.2%
Non English Speakers:
18.5%
Rent:
$1,380
Unemployment Rate:
3.6%
Public Transport Usage:
4.2%
Commute Time:
19.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.4%
Bachelors or More:
47.0%
Education
How are the schools in Gainesville, FL?
Gainesville is renowned for its outstanding educational institutions, including the University of Florida and Santa Fe College, which attract thousands of students each year. The city features a mix of public and private schools, such as Gainesville High School and Oak Hall School, providing strong K–12 options. Educational attainment is high, with nearly half of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Public Schools
Name:
Gainesville High School
Street:
1900 NW 13th St
Phone:
352-955-6707
Students:
1,750
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.5
Name:
J.J. Finley Elementary
Street:
1912 NW 5th Ave
Phone:
352-955-6706
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.8
Private Schools
Name:
Oak Hall School
Street:
8009 SW 14th Ave
Phone:
352-332-3609
Students:
800
Colleges
Name:
University of Florida
City:
Gainesville
State:
FL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
55,800
Name:
Santa Fe College
City:
Gainesville
State:
FL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
15,200
Healthcare
Gainesville offers excellent healthcare access, anchored by major hospitals like UF Health Shands Hospital and North Florida Regional Medical Center. With 3.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% health insurance coverage, residents benefit from strong medical resources and emergency services. The city’s healthcare index indicates quality care is readily available.
Major Hospitals
Name:
UF Health Shands Hospital
Address:
1600 SW Archer Rd, Gainesville, FL 32608
Phone:
(352) 265-0111
Type:
General & Teaching
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
North Florida Regional Medical Center
Address:
6500 W Newberry Rd, Gainesville, FL 32605
Phone:
(352) 333-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.4%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Gainesville, FL?
The housing market in Gainesville is competitive yet approachable, with the median home price at $295,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom at $1,380. Home values have appreciated by 7.2% in the past year, and nearly 39% of homes are owner-occupied. Rental options are plentiful, thanks to a moderate vacancy rate and ongoing new construction.
Median Home Price:
$295,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,380
Owner Occupied Rate:
38.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle and licensing needs in Gainesville are managed by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, conveniently located on NW 34th Blvd. Residents can access a full range of services, from driver’s licenses to vehicle registration, both in person and online. The DMV offers helpful resources to make relocation and compliance easy.
State:
Florida
Department:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Address:
5830 NW 34th Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32653
Phone:
(352) 374-5236
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.