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The Cost of Living Diaries: Greater Daytona Beach, FL

How much does living in the Greater Daytona Region of Florida cost? We asked a local to give us ALL the details.

By Brittany Anas on June 7, 2022

Daytona Beach FL
Daytona Beach / iStock/SeanPavonePhoto

Ahh, Greater Daytona — this region offers an envious lifestyle, complete with great jobs, high-quality education institutions, must-try restaurants and, of course, beaches. But just how much does it cost to live in this beautiful place? We sat down with Michelle Caudell, a 30-year-old commercial insurance adviser in Ormond Beach. She gave us the 4-1-1 on life in the region and how much it costs to live here.

How long have you lived in Volusia County?
Volusia County is my home, and it has been from the moment I was born. I moved away for college, but I knew I would always come back. I love it here.

“I love the small-town feel. I like being in the grocery store and knowing who I am shopping next to.”

Michelle Caudell, commercial insurance adviser and Ormond Beach, FL resident

What are some of your favorite things about living in the area?
I love the small-town feel. I like being in the grocery store and knowing who I am shopping next to. I enjoy grabbing dinner and knowing the owners of the restaurant. I love all the opportunities to be involved in and that I have a say in my community. I love that it is sunny and beautiful year-round and that you can go to the beach or out on the boat all year long. Ormond Beach is a gem, and I am lucky to call it home.

What are your monthly housing expenses?
I bought my house in 2020 when the real estate market was starting to heat up. From the moment I saw my newly renovated, perfect beach bungalow, I knew it had to be mine. It is a 1,000-square-foot, two-bedroom, two-bath bungalow with the most charming front porch. My mortgage is the same price as renting a one-bedroom apartment in the area, which is why I decided to buy. Being in a 1,000-square-foot house, my electric bill is under $100 every month, and I am on a septic tank, so my water bill is roughly $25 a month.

Do you need a car in Volusia County?
Yes, you do need a car here. While everything has a small-town feel, there are only a few things within walking distance. A lot of beach residents have golf carts, and it is on my list of wants!

Hand holding a coffee mug, which is filled with a latte from Gold Leaf Coffee Co., located in the Greater Daytona Region of Florida.
Gold Leaf Coffee Co.

Where’s your favorite coffee shop? What’s your coffee order, and how much does it cost? 
Gold Leaf Coffee Co. is in the heart of downtown Ormond Beach. It is locally owned and serves the most delicious mocha latte and housemade bagels ($3 a piece).

Where’s your favorite spot for dinner?
Hands down, my favorite dinner spot is 63 Sovereign. It is locally owned and serves dishes from around the world. (Bao buns are four for $18; ceviche is $13). The outside seating with bistro lights is stunning on a Friday night!

What’s your favorite free activity in Volusia County?
I have a German shepherd named Cooper, and we love to go to the dog beach on Saturday mornings. I also love riding my bike to the beach.

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Array ( )
Array ( [0] => 178233 [1] => 159685 [2] => 159839 [3] => 159646 [4] => 159613 [5] => 159698 [6] => 111775 [7] => 111780 )

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