Lake Mary, FL vs University CDP (Hillsborough County), FL

The cost of living difference between Lake Mary, FL and University CDP (Hillsborough County), FL is dramatic. University CDP (Hillsborough County) is 60% cheaper than Lake Mary, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Lake Mary has a cost index of 134 while University CDP (Hillsborough County) sits at 84, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Lake Mary is $1,999/month compared to $1,185/month in University CDP (Hillsborough County) — a 69% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: University CDP (Hillsborough County) is more affordable at $146,400 median vs $462,200.

Median household income in Lake Mary is $116,944 compared to $36,483 in University CDP (Hillsborough County) (+220.5%). While Lake Mary is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Lake Mary spend roughly 20.5% of their income on rent, less than the 39% in University CDP (Hillsborough County). The Lake Mary ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (73.2°F vs 74.5°F). Lake Mary receives more rainfall at 49.6" per year compared to 49.5" in University CDP (Hillsborough County).