Cheapest Cities Near Lakeland (2026)

Lakeland has a cost of living index of 87 (US avg = 100). Here are 8 more affordable metros to consider as alternatives.

More affordable alternatives

1
Flint, MI11% cheaper
COL: 771BR: $880/moSave $570/mo on rent
2
McAllen, TX10% cheaper
COL: 781BR: $950/moSave $500/mo on rent
3
Jackson, MS9% cheaper
COL: 791BR: $1,000/moSave $450/mo on rent
4
Springfield, MO9% cheaper
COL: 791BR: $950/moSave $500/mo on rent
5
Laredo, TX9% cheaper
COL: 791BR: $950/moSave $500/mo on rent
6
Evansville, IN8% cheaper
COL: 801BR: $990/moSave $460/mo on rent
7
Topeka, KS8% cheaper
COL: 801BR: $940/moSave $510/mo on rent
8
El Paso, TX8% cheaper
COL: 801BR: $1,050/moSave $400/mo on rent

Lakeland at a glance

87
COL index
100 = US avg
$1,450
1BR rent
per month
$285K
Home price
median
None
State tax
income

Cities with similar cost of living

COL index sourced from Numbeo, Zillow, and BLS data ยท Q1 2026 ยท For general guidance only