10-05-2025
Gorgeous homes cost peanuts in under-the-radar Florida town named one of the best places to retire
Sebring in Florida - nestled just 90 miles south of Orlando - is emerging as a retirement haven for those seeking budget-friendly living without sacrificing quality of life.
Known as the 'City on the Circle' for its unique downtown layout, Sebring offers a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities, making it an attractive option for retirees looking to stretch their savings.
'There's tons to do in Sebring,' Sue Clark, a real estate agent with Century 21 Lake & Land Myers Realty, told the
'We have 100 lakes in the immediate area, orange groves that are endlessly beautiful and the quality of the area really draws people here.'
The serene city boasts an uncommonly low cost of living, with housing costs significantly below the national average and some houses listed for as little as $60,000.
'We have always had a lot of people coming to the area for the many lakes and recreation - and its still affordable,' Clark added.
A two-bedroom, two-bathroom property located at 420 Town And Country Boulevard in Sebring is currently listed for just $39,900 and offers a prime spot in the heart of Sebring's suburbs.
The beautiful home, set with a pristinely kept lawn and a stunning floral bed, 'featuring a new roof, a large carport, a covered front porch, and two generously sized sheds for extra storage,' according to the listing.
For just $60,000, buyers can purchase a modern two-bedroom, two-bathroom mobile home located inside the manicured Woodhaven Estates.
Set with a Spanish style front porch area for sitting and enjoying the outside, the sprawling 2140 Burning Tree Circle home also boasts an extra large shed at the back of the home attached to the screen room.
The Southern town's affordability is complemented by the state's retiree-friendly tax policies, including no personal income, estate or inheritance taxes - which can significantly boost retiree's purchasing power.
Healthcare access is another draw for retirees as Sebring is home to more than 200 healthcare establishments, including highly-rated hospitals like Florida Highlands Hospital and Florida Raulerson Hospital.
The town's inland location also means the area is less susceptible to severe coastal natural disasters, providing peace of mind to those concerned about climate-related risks.
For those seeking recreation, Sebring offers a variety of options.
Residents can enjoy events at the renowned Sebring International Raceway, which features professional and amateur racing events, test facilities for teams and racing schools.
'Every year they do the 12 Hours of Sebring, a big race on the famous track that draws a huge crowd to see the high-rollers and expensive sports cars. It's a real staple for the area,' the experienced real estate professional said.
Set with a garage in a gated community with a pool and club house, 1969 Pine Key Blvd is being sold for $179,000 in Sebring
The famously known racetrack hosts major endurance races like the 12 Hours of Sebring and is a popular location for teams to test and prepare for races.
Sebring locals can also indulge in the city's pristinely kept golf courses - both public and private - and other cultural attractions such as the Highlands Museum of the Arts.
Deemed a Historic District, Sebring's distinctive downtown 'on the Circle,' only adds to its appeal, providing a picturesque setting equipped with charming architecture and a variety of unique shops and businesses.
'The city recently underwent renovations to the historic town circle, renovating and refurbishing the 100-year-old buildings, it's a very quaint area,' Clark, who has been serving the Sebring area for more than 30 years, told the
As inviting as the downtown area is, Sebring is just as proud of its lakeside appeal.
Lake Jackson, the city's crown jewel, hugs the downtown and offers top-tier bass, sunfish, and crappie fishing alongside water sports like jet skiing and waterskiing.
'People come for the recreation, it is incredible and there are no shortage of options: Swimming, air-boating, jet skiing, and so much more,' Clark said.
With three public beaches and a boat ramp on its 3,200-acre expanse, it's a paradise for water lovers.
Residents looking to get some sultry Florida sun can also enjoy Hidden Beach Park on the north side of the lake.
Known as the 'City on the Circle' for its unique downtown layout, Sebring offers a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities, making it an attractive option for retirees looking to stretch their savings
2755 Bolin Ln in Sebring, is being sold for only $12,000
Residents can enjoy events at the renowned Sebring International Raceway, which features professional and amateur racing events, test facilities for teams and racing schools
'There's tons to do in Sebring,' Sue Clark, a real estate agent with Century 21 Lake & Land Myers Realty, told the 'We have 100 lakes in the immediate area, orange groves that are endlessly beautiful and the quality of the area really draws people here'
While the city is a beautiful destination in its own right, Sebring is surrounded by some incredible sights that might be more in tune with outdoor lovers, including wildlife watchers and birders who can appreciate an old-growth cypress swamp and the primal beauty it offers.
Highlands Hammock State Park, just a 13-minute drive west of town, is home to more rare and endemic species than any other state park in Florida.
There are nine trails in the park, and, while alligators are easily the park's most visible wild animal, the 9,000-acre park is also home to endangered Florida panthers, black bears, white-tail deer, and a broad assortment of birds, both resident and migratory.
From the quiet, old-Florida feel of the downtown circle to the manic atmosphere at the historic raceway, the under-the-radar community offers a little something for everyone.
