Bradenton, FL vs Clearwater, FL

Bradenton, FL and Clearwater, FL have a very similar cost of living, with only a 4.5% difference in their overall index. Bradenton scores 104 while Clearwater scores 109 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Bradenton is $1,475/month compared to $1,539/month in Clearwater — a 4% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Bradenton is more affordable at $282,500 median vs $326,100.

Median household income in Bradenton is $60,964 compared to $64,440 in Clearwater (-5.4%). While Clearwater is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Bradenton spend roughly 29% of their income on rent, more than the 28.7% in Clearwater.