Alachua, FL Utility & Living Guide

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Alachua, FL Utility & Living Guide

Alachua is the second-most populous city in Alachua County, Florida, and the third-largest in North Central Florida. According to the 2020 census, the city's population was 10,574, up from 9,059 at the 2010 census.

Last updated: July 8, 2026
Total Utilities$305/mo
1BR Rent$1007/mo
Sales Tax7.5%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score6/10
Median Home$269,300
📷 Live Cameras — Alachua
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🌤️ Live Weather — Alachua
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Living in Alachua, summers are intense — Aug highs average 90.3°F, while winters stay mild, with Jan lows rarely below 47.2°F. At just 512 heating degree days per year, home heating costs are minimal. The area receives 47.7 inches of rainfall per year. Within 5 miles: 7 parks, 3 groceries, 3 dining spots and 4 schools. For hospital care, the nearest facility is in a neighboring city. Median household income: $72,491. With a 12.9% poverty rate and 71.7% homeownership, the community reflects a stable residential mix. Nearby cities: Newberry (12mi SW), Gainesville (14mi SE), Starke (25mi E). Air quality is Good — avg AQI 36 over the past week.
🚨 City In The News
Alachua, FLAs the primary elections approach, the Alachua County Democratic Party recently hosted a candidate forum for Florida House of Representatives District 21, shedding light on the key issues that matter most to residents and potential newcomers alike. The discussion centered around GRU, housing, and schools, all of which play a significant role in determining the quality of life in Alachua. For individuals considering relocating to the area, it's essential to stay informed about the local candidates' stances on these vital matters. The cost of living in Alachua, particularly when it comes to housing, is a pressing concern that was addressed by the candidates. As the city continues to grow and evolve, its leaders' approaches to managing development, ensuring affordable housing, and supporting local schools will have a direct impact on the overall quality of life for residents. The candidates' ideas and proposals for addressing these challenges will undoubtedly shape the future of Alachua, making it an exciting time to observe the city's progress. Alachua is worth watching as it navigates these critical issues, making it a fascinating place to consider calling home.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Alachua
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💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$120/mo

Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU)
🔥 Gas

$50/mo

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$45/mo

City of Alachua Water Department
🗑️ Garbage

$25/mo

Waste Pro USA
📶 Internet

$65/mo

Combined Average Overhead$305/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1007/mo
2 Bedrooms$1119/mo
3 Bedrooms$1398/mo
Median Home Price$269,300
Property Tax Rate1.2%
Avg Childcare/mo$1000

The Alachua housing market is competitive, with steady demand due to its proximity to Gainesville. Prices have risen moderately over the past few years.

Cost of Living

Overall COL Index

105

US national avg = 100
vs National Avg

+5% above national average

Groceries

102

Transportation

98

Healthcare

100

Childcare/mo

$1000

Tax Rates

Tax Overview
Total Sales Tax7.5%
Property Tax Rate1.2%
<p>State 6% + County 1% + City 0.5%</p>

Florida has no state income tax.

Family & Relocation

Family Vibe Score
6/10
Safety Index

50

Higher = safer
School Rating

6.5/10

GreatSchools avg
Avg Childcare

$1000/mo

City Pulse

Population Trend
+8% (growing)
Political Climate
Purple (mix of Republican and Democratic voters)
Business Momentum
Moderate with key industries in healthcare, education, and agriculture
Top Local Concerns
Traffic congestion, school funding, water quality
🚌 Transit for Families

Limited public transit; most families rely on cars. Sidewalks are available in newer neighborhoods.

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park
  • 🎯
    Legacy Park
  • 🎯
    Alachua Splash Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The Town of Tioga and Country Club Estates are popular for families due to good schools and parks. Older neighborhoods near downtown offer charm but fewer amenities.

Household Budget Calculator

Estimate your real monthly cost of living in Alachua based on your household profile.

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📊 Alachua — Census & Demographic Data

Official data from the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey.

💰 Median Household Income
$72,491
👤 Median Age
40.8
🏠 Homeownership Rate
71.7%
🔑 Renter Rate
28.3%
📉 Poverty Rate
12.9%
💼 Unemployment Rate
3.9%
📡 Internet Access
88.2%
🎓 College Educated
39.1%

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Summer AC usage spikes electric bills by 20-30%. Winter heating costs are minimal due to mild temperatures.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Key ZIP code level tax info: Alachua County millage rate ~14.5 mills, no local surtaxes specific to Alachua city.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

6/10: Decent sidewalks in newer areas but limited elevator access. Good park access in family neighborhoods.

🏛️ City Heritage & History

Alachua, Florida, boasts a rich history dating back to the early 19th century when the area was first settled by Americans. The community, initially known as Dell's Courthouse and later renamed Newnansville, was a key location during the Second Seminole War and briefly thrived as one of the largest cities in the state. However, when the railroad bypassed Newnansville, the city began to decline, and its residents eventually relocated to a new site along the rail line, establishing the city of Alachua in 1884. The area that is now Alachua was once the site of the Potano tribe's primary town and the location of the first Spanish mission in the Florida interior, Mission San Francisco de Potano, in 1606. Today, Alachua is a thriving city with a strong presence in the bio and life sciences sector, and its historic Main Street features beautiful Queen Anne-style homes and brick businesses, a testament to its vibrant past.

📍 Alachua City Stories

Alachua, Florida — City Overview

Living in Alachua, summers are intense — Aug highs average 90.3°F, while winters stay mild, with Jan lows...

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Alachua, Florida — What District 21 Democratic candidates are saying about GRU,

As the primary elections approach, the Alachua County Democratic Party recently hosted a candidate forum for Florida House...

Read more →
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