Cost of Living in Jay, FL

With a cost of living index of 75, Jay, FL is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 25% cheaper than the national average and 36% below the Florida state average of 110. Jay is a small community of 706 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Jay's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,008 (24% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $126,800 (58% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.4x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Jay is $36,964, which is 51% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 33% of household income on rent. This exceeds the recommended 30% threshold, meaning many renters here are cost-burdened. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Jay. The area sees an average annual temperature of 65.5°F, with summers averaging 79°F and winters around 51°F. Annual rainfall totals 61.5 inches spread over roughly 110 days. The mild climate is a draw for many residents and keeps utility costs moderate year-round.

Everyday prices in the Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent, FL (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.