A new ConsumerAffairs (Consumer Affairs study on renter rankings and tenant protections) study ranks State of Florida (Florida tenant protection laws and rental policy context) as the worst state for renters in the country, with housing costs consuming 37.4% of income — the highest share in the United States. The findings place Florida dead last among all states for renters. For a deeper look at the study’s methodology and implications, see the Consumer Affairs report on Florida’s ranking for renters.
Florida Rent Costs by the Numbers
The median rent in Florida is $1,669, the eighth highest nationally. That figure is 18% above the national median and climbing. If you’re curious about how far $1,500 in rent goes in different parts of the region, check out this analysis of rent value across Treasure Coast cities.
Florida renters spend 37.4% of their income on rent, the highest percentage in the U.S. The traditional housing affordability benchmark is 30% of income. Florida renters are exceeding that threshold, leaving less money for groceries, gas, and other expenses.
The state’s rental vacancy rate is 7.6%, the sixth highest in the country.
Florida Ranks Last for Tenant Protections
Florida ranks dead last for tenant protections, according to the Consumer Affairs study. The state has no rent control, no limits on rent increases, no just cause eviction protections, and no limits on tenant fees.
Consumer Affairs evaluated four areas of tenant protection laws. Florida has no state laws to protect renters in any of those four areas.
Vacancy Rate and Pricing in Florida
Florida has the sixth highest rental vacancy rate in the country. According to the study, this is not a supply problem — it is a price problem.
Rent in Florida is rising faster than in most states. The median rent is already 18% above the national median. For those considering age-restricted housing, recent updates on Port St. Lucie 55+ communities and trends for 2025 may offer valuable insights.
Best States for Renters
North Dakota ranked best for renters for the third year in a row. Typical rent in North Dakota is almost a third lower than the national median, and renters there spend only 23.7% of income on housing.
Colorado jumped 42 spots to rank second, largely due to strong tenant protection laws.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Renters
What is the median rent in Florida?
The median rent in Florida is $1,669, which is the eighth highest in the country.
How much of their income do Florida renters spend on rent?
Florida renters spend 37.4% of their income on rent, the highest percentage in the United States. The traditional affordability benchmark is 30% of income.
Are there tenant protection laws in Florida?
Florida has no state laws protecting renters in any of the four areas Consumer Affairs evaluated. There is no rent control, no limits on rent increases, no just cause eviction protections, and no limits on tenant fees.
What state ranked best for renters?
North Dakota ranked best for renters for the third year in a row. Typical rent there is almost a third lower than the national median, and renters spend only 23.7% of income on housing.
What is Florida’s rental vacancy rate?
Florida’s rental vacancy rate is 7.6%, the sixth highest in the country. According to the Consumer Affairs study, this is not a supply problem but a price problem.
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