Sebastian, FL Utility & Living Guide

⚡ Featured Deal

Essentials for Your New Home

🛒 Shop This Deal Now

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Tier 3 Location

Sebastian, FL Utility & Living Guide

Sebastian is the most populous city in Indian River County, Florida. It is located at the confluence of the St.

Last updated: July 9, 2026
Total Utilities$305/mo
1BR Rent$1172/mo
Sales Tax7.5%
COL Index105 (+5% above national average)
Family Score6/10
Median Home$255,900
📷 Live Cameras — Sebastian
Live camera
Live · refreshing...
🌤️ Live Weather — Sebastian
Loading weather...
Living in Sebastian, summers are hot, with Jul highs around 87.3°F, while winters stay mild, with Jan lows rarely below 58.5°F. At just 2 heating degree days per year, home heating costs are minimal. The area receives 54.5 inches of rainfall per year. Within 5 miles: 28 parks, 21 dining spots and 1 school. For hospital care, the nearest facility is in a neighboring city. Median household income: $65,650. With a 8.8% poverty rate and 83.2% homeownership, the community reflects a stable residential mix. Nearby cities: Gifford (10mi SE), Vero Beach (13mi S), Palm Bay (16mi NW). Air quality is Good — avg AQI 43 over the past week.
🚨 City In The News
The city of Sebastian is on the cusp of significant growth, with two proposed housing developments considered by the City Council at its recent meeting. One of these developments would introduce over 500 new homes to the area, with the other adding nearly 200 more. For individuals and families considering relocating to Sebastian, this news is noteworthy as it indicates a potential shift in the city's housing landscape. As the city continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these developments impact the local cost of living and overall quality of life. The addition of nearly 700 new homes could bring new amenities, services, and community resources to the area, making Sebastian an even more attractive option for those looking to put down roots. While the city's charm and natural beauty have long made it a desirable destination, the prospect of new housing developments may also lead to increased economic activity and job opportunities. As Sebastian navigates this period of growth and development, it is worth watching to see how the city balances its small-town character with the needs and demands of a expanding population, making it a city worth keeping an eye on as it continues to grow and evolve.
⚠️ Natural Hazard History — Sebastian
Loading hazard data...
💼 Calculate Your Future Retirement Income

Moving Your Assets to Sebastian?

Moving to Sebastian? Find out how much retirement income you could generate based on your current savings, age, and goals. Calculate Your Retirement Income → Free · Takes 2 minutes · No personal data required
💰 Budget Calculator
🔌 Utilities
🏠 Housing
📊 Cost of Living
💰 Taxes
👨‍👩‍👧 Families
🧮 Tools

Monthly Utility Costs

⚡ Electric

$120/mo

Florida Power & Light (FPL)
🔥 Gas

$50/mo

N/A - Electric only
💧 Water

$45/mo

Sebastian City Utilities
🗑️ Garbage

$25/mo

Waste Management
📶 Internet

$65/mo

Combined Average Overhead$305/month

Housing Market

Rent & Property
1 Bedroom$1172/mo
2 Bedrooms$1303/mo
3 Bedrooms$1628/mo
Median Home Price$255,900
Property Tax Rate1.2%
Avg Childcare/mo$1000

Sebastian’s housing market is competitive, with rising demand for waterfront properties. Prices have increased steadily due to its desirable location near the Indian River Lagoon.

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 marine, tourism, and healthcare
Top Local Concerns
Flooding, traffic congestion, rising housing costs
🚌 Transit for Families

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

🎡 Top Kid Attractions
  • 🎯
    Sebastian Inlet State Park
  • 🎯
    Capt. Butcher's Eco Tours
  • 🎯
    Riverview Park

Best Neighborhoods for Families

The neighborhoods near Riverview Park are popular for families due to good schools and parks. Waterfront areas like Sebastian Shores offer scenic views but are pricier.

Household Budget Calculator

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

Financial Tools

Calculators
Planning Tools

Find Another City Guide

Search by city name or ZIP code to find utility costs, housing data and cost of living guides.

📊 Sebastian — Census & Demographic Data

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

💰 Median Household Income
$65,650
👤 Median Age
56.7
🏠 Homeownership Rate
83.2%
🔑 Renter Rate
16.8%
📉 Poverty Rate
8.8%
💼 Unemployment Rate
9.6%
📡 Internet Access
86.3%
🎓 College Educated
27.3%

☀️ Seasonal Utility Costs

Summer months see higher electric bills due to AC usage, while winter utility costs are lower with mild temperatures reducing heating needs.

🏛️ Local Tax Details

Property tax millage rates vary by ZIP; Sebastian (32958) has a base rate of 1.2% with no additional surtaxes.

👶 Family & Stroller Friendliness

7/10: Sidewalks are decent in newer areas, parks are accessible, but public transit lacks family-friendly features.

📍 Sebastian City Stories

Sebastian, Florida — City Overview

Living in Sebastian, summers are hot, with Jul highs around 87.3°F, while winters stay mild, with Jan lows...

Read more →

Sebastian, Florida — Florida city considers developments to bring almost 700 home

The city of Sebastian is on the cusp of significant growth, with two proposed housing developments considered by...

Read more →
📰 Latest FL Stories
Florida Living Report — July 27, 2026

Florida Living Report — July 27, 2026

With a population now exceeding 21.6 million, Florida has become more than just a retirement destination; it is...

Read more →
Florida Living Report — July 26, 2026

Florida Living Report — July 26, 2026

For anyone weighing a move to Florida, the numbers paint a picture of a state that is both...

Read more →
Florida Living Report — July 25, 2026

Florida Living Report — July 25, 2026

When considering a move to Florida, you are stepping into the nation’s third most populous state, with over...

Read more →
Florida Living Report — July 24, 2026

Florida Living Report — July 24, 2026

Florida, with a population surpassing 21.6 million, has long been a magnetic destination for Americans seeking a change...

Read more →
Amazon

Get your home essentials, storage, and moving supplies delivered.

Shop Moving Essentials

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.