DeLand, FL, United States Hero Image
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DeLand, FL, United States

🌊 Coastal

Data updated Aug 28, 2026

Follows United States Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →

📊 Scores

63
FIRE
63
Retiree
69
Digital Nomad

Best fit: Digital Nomad (score: 69)

Stetson University dominates DeLand's economy as the largest employer, anchoring education, healthcare, and professional services. The university's law school and liberal arts programs drive steady job creation in administration, research, and support roles. Beyond campus, retail, small business, and light manufacturing fill gaps. Tourism trickles in from nearby Daytona Beach, but DeLand isn't a destination economy—it's a regional hub where people work for institutions or commute to Orlando (45 minutes away) for higher-paying tech and corporate jobs.

Rent for a one-bedroom downtown runs $1,500/month, reasonable for Florida but not cheap for a college town. Public transit is minimal; you need a car. Healthcare access is solid through AdventHealth and Stetson's medical partnerships. Bureaucracy is standard American—no major friction. The real friction: summer heat and humidity are brutal (90°F+ with 80% humidity June–September), and the subtropical climate means occasional freezes that still rattle locals. Internet and utilities are reliable.

Summers are oppressively hot; winters are mild and pleasant. The food scene revolves around university dining, casual chains, and a handful of farm-to-table spots—nothing remarkable. The downtown arts district (Athens Theatre, galleries, festivals) attracts a modest creative crowd, but nightlife is quiet. The expat community is tiny; most residents are American retirees, students, or university staff. DeLand suits remote workers seeking affordable, safe small-town living with university culture and easy access to Orlando—not those craving vibrant nightlife or coastal living.

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🏚️ Cost of Living

💰 Budgets and Costs

$2357/mo
Selected: mid-range lifestyle
This mid-range budget allows for a comfortable lifestyle in DeLand, FL. Housing is a one-bedroom apartment outside the centre ($1,320/mo), with home cooking ($248/mo on groceries) and dining out a few times a week ($264/mo). A gym membership is included ($30/mo). Utilities and connectivity round out to $495/mo.

Budgets (excl. rent)

Single person$1100/mo
Family of 4$3900/mo

These exclude rent. The tiers above are all-in monthly budgets.

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L)$1.34
Bread (loaf)$3.55
Eggs (12)$2.92
Rice (1kg)$2.67
Chicken (1kg)$14.33

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive)$28
Meal (Mid-range)$80.5
Cappuccino$6
Water (0.33L)$3
Restaurant Density0.1 /km²

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo)$268.55
Mobile Plan (mo)$150
Gym (mo)$30
Cinema Ticket$15

Housing

1BR Center (mo)$1500
1BR Outside (mo)$1320
3BR Center (mo)$2650
3BR Outside (mo)$1800

A 1BR in the center runs about $1500/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.

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🛡️ Safety & Crime

70
Safety Index

(Higher is safer)

30
Crime Index

(Lower is safer)

DeLand is a college town with a notably safe, walkable downtown centered around Stetson University. Day-to-day life feels secure, and evening walks are generally comfortable in the main commercial areas. The Safety Index of 70 reflects a genuinely low-crime environment compared to Florida averages, though like any small city, situational awareness remains prudent.

Property crime (vehicle break-ins, package theft) occurs occasionally but isn't epidemic. Violent crime is rare. Petty theft from unlocked vehicles or homes is the primary concern. The university presence means some weekend rowdiness downtown, but serious crime is uncommon. Solo female travelers and residents report feeling safe; standard precautions (avoiding isolated areas after dark, securing valuables) suffice.

DeLand benefits from stable local governance and reliable police presence. No significant geopolitical risks or corruption concerns affect daily life. The city is politically conservative and socially stable. For Americans considering relocation, DeLand offers genuine safety with small-town character—it's a legitimate choice for remote workers or retirees seeking a secure, affordable Florida community without the crime pressures of larger metros.

🏥 Healthcare

Good
Public Hospitals
Yes
Private Clinics
Yes
English-Speaking Doctors
Widely Available

🌤️ Climate

Climate Zones
Subtropical
Summer Temp
28°C
Winter Temp
13°C
Humidity
74%
Air Quality Index
45
Annual Rainfall
1427 mm

Best Months

OctNovMarApr

Climate Notes

DeLand has a humid subtropical climate with hot, wet summers (June-September) and mild, dry winters, typical of central Florida with afternoon thunderstorms and occasional freezes.

💻 Digital Nomad

Avg Internet Speed
65 Mbps
Internet (monthly)
$70/mo
Coworking Availability
Moderate
Coworking Spaces Nearby
0
Digital Nomad Score
69/100

Community Notes

NamePrice/moNotes
The DeLand Hive$150A locally owned coworking space in Downtown DeLand, offering a collaborative environment with various membership options. It's a good option for those seeking a community-focused workspace.
Regus DeLand$200Located on Woodland Blvd, Regus provides a professional and established coworking environment with flexible options. It's suitable for those who prefer a more corporate setting with reliable amenities.

Working remotely from DeLand, FL? Nomad health insurance covers you across borders, month to month.

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🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Downtown DeLand
Banks Nearby
11
ATMs Nearby
7

Expat Life Notes

A historic college town home to Stetson University. Charming and safe.

Pros

  • ✓ Historic charm
  • ✓ Stetson university vibe
  • ✓ Safe and quiet

Cons

  • ✗ Isolated from coast
  • ✗ Quiet nightlife
  • ✗ Limited job variety

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Could living/working in DeLand, FL cut years off your work life?

With a 1-bedroom in the center at $1500/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about DeLand, FL

Click any question to expand the answer.

DeLand, FL has a population of approximately 37,351 people.
A single person can expect to spend around $3,750 per month in DeLand, FL, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1500/month.
The nearest airport to DeLand, FL is DAB, approximately 4.9km away.
DeLand, FL is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 70.0. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.
DeLand, FL has an average internet speed of 65 Mbps. It is considered a well-established digital nomad destination.
Yes, relatively. The safety index is 70 (moderate-to-good for Florida). Downtown and university areas are well-lit and patrolled. Crime exists but isn't a major concern compared to larger Florida cities. Standard urban precautions apply.
Getting by without a car is challenging but possible for some. DeLand has a walkability score of 65, meaning some errands can be done on foot, and biking is feasible downtown. However, for most groceries and longer trips, a car is still needed due to limited public transit.
Limited unless you work remotely or target Stetson University jobs (which often require US work authorization). Most expats here are digital nomads or retirees. Orlando (45 min away) offers better employment options if you're willing to commute.
DeLand is generally more affordable than larger Florida cities. Expect to pay around $1,200-$2,000 per month for rent depending on the neighborhood, and groceries are comparable to the national average. Dining out can range from budget-friendly diners to more upscale restaurants on Woodland Boulevard.
While DeLand doesn't have a large, formally organized expat community, you'll find many friendly locals and opportunities to connect through community events and organizations. Stetson University also brings a diverse population to the area, which can provide connections.
Internet speeds in DeLand average 65 Mbps, which is generally sufficient for remote work and video conferencing.
DeLand has AdventHealth DeLand hospital and several clinics, offering a range of medical services. You'll find plenty of English-speaking doctors and specialists. Healthcare costs are comparable to the US average, so factor that into your budget.
DeLand has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. Expect temperatures in the 90s during the summer and lows in the 50s in the winter. Hurricane season runs from June to November, so be prepared.
For a historic feel, look at homes near Downtown DeLand. Victoria Park offers newer construction and community amenities. For a more rural setting, consider areas further west of town. Your budget will influence your options.
DeLand is generally a safe city, but like any urban area, there are some areas with higher crime rates. It's best to research specific neighborhoods and consult local crime statistics before making a decision. Downtown is generally safe, but be aware of your surroundings at night.
Yes, DeLand has numerous ATMs and branches of major US banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo. You shouldn't have any trouble accessing your funds. However, be mindful of international ATM fees if you're using a foreign card.
DeLand can be a viable option for retirees on a fixed income, especially if you own your home outright or have a comfortable pension. The lower cost of living compared to other parts of Florida can help your money stretch further. Social Security income is not taxed in Florida.
While having a car is generally recommended, DeLand does have public transportation options through Votran. However, service can be limited, especially outside of the main areas. Biking is also an option, but be aware of the Florida heat and humidity.
Even if you live abroad, as a US citizen, you're still required to file US taxes. You may be able to take advantage of the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) or the Foreign Tax Credit to reduce your tax burden. Be sure to consult with a tax professional specializing in expat taxes.
DeLand offers a relaxed and slower pace of life compared to larger cities. It has a charming, small-town feel with a focus on community and local events. This can be a great benefit for retirees or those seeking a less hectic lifestyle.
Yes, DeLand has several coffee shops with reliable Wi-Fi that are suitable for remote work. While dedicated coworking spaces are limited, the Chamber of Commerce and Stetson University may offer resources for entrepreneurs and remote workers.

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