Cost of Living in Tallahassee 2026: A Complete Guide for Students
Your Budget-Friendly Guide to Life in Tallahassee
Table of Content
As if juggling classes wasn’t already enough, now you also need to budget, manage bills, and figure out life in a new city! If you're planning to study in Florida’s capital, understanding the cost of living in Tallahassee is one of the first steps to settling in comfortably. Whether you're heading to Florida State University or Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, knowing your expenses early on will help you plan your new chapter with ease.
To make things simple, here’s a complete breakdown of the cost of living in Tallahassee for students, including groceries, rent, travel, entertainment, and more — all structured to help you build a realistic budget before you arrive.
About Tallahassee
Tallahassee, the capital city of Florida, is known for its lush greenery, warm weather, welcoming student culture, and strong educational environment. Home to more than 70,000 college students, the city truly revolves around student life, making it one of the most affordable and comfortable student cities in the United States.
But before anything else, you'll need to understand the Tallahassee living cost. A new city always feels unfamiliar, and between classes, commuting, and settling in, budgeting can feel overwhelming at first. As you get used to the city, you’ll naturally find your rhythm — but until then, here’s a guide to help you map out your living expenses in Tallahassee for students effectively.
Cost of Living in Tallahassee Florida: Overview
Tallahassee offers a lifestyle that’s much more affordable compared to major US college cities. From student accommodation in Tallahassee and transportation to groceries, dining, and entertainment, it’s important to understand how much you’ll spend monthly.
Average Cost of Living in Tallahassee Florida: $900 – $1,500/month
This budget generally covers rent, food, utilities, and transport. By understanding the average cost of living, you’ll be able to manage your expenses smartly and enjoy your student life without stress.
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $450 – $900 | Depends on location & room type |
| Groceries & Food | $150 – $250 | Weekly spend: $35–$60 |
| Transportation | $40 – $100 | Student bus passes are available |
| Utilities & Internet | $80 – $150 | Included in many student housing options |
| Entertainment | $50 – $150 | Events, nightlife, movies |
| Personal Expenses | $50 – $120 | Gym, toiletries, clothing, etc. |
Common Expenses & Ways to Save
Tallahassee offers a laid-back, youth-friendly lifestyle without being expensive. Here’s how to manage each category of spending while reducing your overall cost of living for students in Tallahassee.
Grocery Expenses
Groceries make up a major part of your living expenses for students. The city has multiple budget-friendly supermarket options like Walmart, Target, Publix, and Aldi.
Average weekly grocery spend: $35 – $60 per student
| Grocery Item | Average Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Milk (1 litre) | $1.20 – $1.60 | Cheaper in large stores |
| Bread loaf | $1 – $3 | Store-brand = best value |
| Eggs (12 pack) | $2 – $4 | Prices vary by brand |
| Pasta/Rice (1 kg) | $2 – $4 | Bulk buying is cheaper |
| Fruits & veggies | $2 – $4/kg | Local markets = best deals |
| Chicken (1 kg) | $5 – $8 | Depends on the cut/brand |
How to Save on Groceries?
1. Buy in bulk at Costco or Walmart
- Choose store-brand items
- Visit the Tallahassee Farmers Market on weekends
- Split grocery runs with roommates
Smart grocery planning can significantly reduce the Tallahassee cost of living.
Travel Expenses
Tallahassee has a well-connected public transport system operated by StarMetro, making it easy for students to commute to Florida State University or Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University.
| Mode | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Bus Pass | $40 – $60 | Best for daily commuting |
| Single Bus Ticket | $1.25 – $1.50 | Affordable for short trips |
| Uber/Lyft | $6 – $15 per ride | Varies by distance |
| Bike | Free | Tallahassee is bike-friendly |
How to Save on Transportation?
- Walk or bike for short distances
- Use student-discount bus passes
- Avoid peak-time ride-sharing apps
Following these tips helps cut down the cost of living.
Accommodation / Housing
One of the biggest factors in the cost for students is accommodation. Thankfully, Tallahassee offers a wide variety of student-friendly housing options — from university dorms to private rooms and shared apartments.
Average Rent: $450 – $900/month
| Housing Type | Average Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| On-campus housing | $500 – $850 | Basic & convenient |
| Off-campus shared apartment | $450 – $700 | Most affordable choice |
| Studio / Private apartment | $700 – $1,000 | More expensive |
| PBSAs (Purpose-Built Student Housing) | $600 – $900 | Fully furnished with amenities |
If you want comfortable and convenient student accommodation in Tallahassee, amber’s PBSAs offer features like gyms, study lounges, social areas, and 24/7 support at a reasonable living cost in Tallahassee Florida.
How to Save on Housing?
- Choose double occupancy rooms
- Live slightly away from campus
- Share an apartment with friends
- Look for early-bird student housing deals
Accommodation choices will largely determine your overall average cost of living.
Food & Eating Out
Tallahassee has an exciting food scene for students, offering everything from fast food to cheap cafés and popular sit-down restaurants.
| Dining Option | Cost per Meal | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fast-food / Street food | $6 – $10 | Extremely student-friendly |
| Café meals | $8 – $12 | Ideal for casual meals |
| Mid-range restaurant | $15 – $30 | Excluding drinks |
| Coffee / Tea | $3 – $6 | Loyalty programs help save |
How to Save on Food?
- Cook at home often
- Avoid frequent coffee runs
- Use student discounts
- Explore meal-prep routines
These habits can significantly reduce your Tallahassee cost of living.
5. Personal Care & Clothing
Personal care expenses vary depending on lifestyle and the brands you prefer.
| Expense Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Men’s haircut | $15 – $30 |
| Women’s haircut | $30 – $60 |
| Gym membership | $15 – $50/month |
| Toiletries | $10 – $30/month |
| Clothing (basic items) | $10 – $40 per item |
How to Save?
- Shop during seasonal sales
- Use student discounts
- Try budget-friendly salons
6. Entertainment Expenses
The city has a lively atmosphere thanks to its huge student population.
| Activity | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Movies | $10 – $18 | Student deals available |
| Concerts | $30 – $80 | Varies by venue |
| Sports events | $20 – $40 | FSU games are popular |
| Streaming services | $5 – $15/month | Affordable alternative |
Ways to Save on Entertainment
- Attend free campus events
- Use discounted weekday cinema tickets
- Explore parks and free outdoor spots
These small steps lower the living expenses for students.
7. University / Tuition Fees
Tallahassee is home to two major institutions:
1. Florida State University (FSU)
2. Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU)
| Student Type | Tuition Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (in-state) | $6,000 – $7,500 | Most affordable |
| Undergraduate (out-of-state) | $18,000 – $22,000 | Higher for non-residents |
| International students | $21,000 – $25,000 | Varies by course |
| Graduate programs | $12,000 – $30,000 | Depends on specialization |
How to Save on Tuition?
- Apply for university scholarships
- Seek assistantship roles
- Explore government-funded scholarships
- Check international student grants
While costs vary depending on the program level and residency status, Tallahassee remains budget-friendly when compared to other cities. By applying for scholarships, students can significantly reduce their overall cost of living.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tallahassee expensive for students?
Not at all. The cost of living in Tallahassee is affordable for students, especially compared to other major US college cities.
What is the average cost of living in Tallahassee Florida per month?
The average cost of living in Tallahassee Florida ranges from $900 to $1,500, depending on accommodation and lifestyle.
Is Tallahassee good for international students?
Yes — with Florida State University and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, the city has a diverse student community and plenty of cultural activities.
How much do students spend on rent in Tallahassee?
Most students spend $450–$900/month, depending on whether they choose shared housing or student apartments Tallahassee.
How can I reduce my living expenses in Tallahassee for students?
Cook at home, use student bus passes, share housing, and shop during sales — all of which lower overall expenses.