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FLORIDA - Florida’s rapid population growth, which peaked between 2021 and 2023, has slowed significantly in recent years.
As the state grapples with higher costs of living, more people are choosing to relocate to places like the Carolinas and Tennessee.
According to a May 2025 PODS report, financial concerns such as rising inflation, severe weather, and home insurance premiums are driving many to leave Florida.
However, not all of Florida is unaffordable.
One small town in Gadsden County, Chattahoochee, has emerged as a surprise contender for affordability.
With a population just under 3,000, Chattahoochee ranked third on Niche’s list of the most affordable places to live in the U.S.
The town’s average home price is $116,000, significantly lower than Tallahassee’s $294,000.
Niche's rankings are based on cost-of-living factors such as housing, healthcare, and utilities, making Chattahoochee stand out among larger cities.
Despite its small size, Chattahoochee offers an affordable lifestyle compared to Florida's bigger metropolitan areas.
The town is just an hour’s drive from Tallahassee, providing easy access to larger city amenities without the hefty price tag.
In addition to its affordability, Chattahoochee offers a rural, tight-knit community, perfect for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Its location along the Chattahoochee River, made famous by Alan Jackson’s hit song, adds to its charm.
With costs rising elsewhere, Chattahoochee is becoming a popular destination for those seeking financial relief and a peaceful lifestyle.