The Hollywood FL cost of living remains one of South Florida's most talked-about topics for anyone considering a move to the coast. Positioned between Fort Lauderdale and Miami, Hollywood offers a unique blend of beachfront living, suburban neighborhoods, and urban convenience — but understanding what it actually costs to live here is essential before you make the leap. This guide breaks down the real numbers behind housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and more for 2026.
Housing Costs Drive the Hollywood FL Cost of Living
Housing is the single largest expense for Hollywood residents, and the 2026 market reflects a city in transition. According to Redfin's housing market data for the three months ending May 2026, the median sale price of a home in Hollywood was $490,000 — up 1.0% year-over-year. While that is a modest increase, it signals stabilization after the volatile swings of recent years.
For renters, the picture varies significantly by location. According to Numbeo's cost-of-living data (last updated June 2026), a one-bedroom apartment in Hollywood's city center averages $2,294 per month, while the same unit outside the center runs about $1,850. Families needing more space can expect to pay approximately $4,167 monthly for a three-bedroom apartment in the city center or $3,583 outside the center. These rental rates reflect Hollywood's growing appeal as a coastal alternative to pricier Miami-Dade markets.
For those comparing options across South Florida, our guide to the Coral Springs cost of living offers a useful suburban comparison point, where housing costs run somewhat lower than Hollywood's beachfront premium.
Everyday Expenses That Shape the Hollywood FL Cost of Living
Beyond housing, everyday expenses in Hollywood remain manageable relative to other South Florida coastal cities. Numbeo's June 2026 data provides a granular look at what residents pay:
- Groceries: Milk at $1.19 per liter, eggs at $5.17 per dozen, chicken fillets at $15.64 per kilogram, and bread at $3.91 per loaf
- Dining out: A meal at an inexpensive restaurant averages $30, while a three-course dinner for two at a mid-range establishment runs about $120
- Fitness and leisure: A monthly gym membership averages $41, and a cinema ticket costs approximately $16.50
- Childcare: Private preschool or kindergarten costs approximately $1,488 per month per child
These figures place Hollywood's everyday spending comfortably within the range expected for a mid-sized South Florida coastal city. The grocery costs, in particular, are on par with national averages, which helps offset the premium renters and buyers pay for proximity to the beach.
Utilities and Transportation in Hollywood, FL
Utility costs in Hollywood are notably reasonable. According to Numbeo, basic utilities — electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for an 85-square-meter apartment — average $144.18 per month. Broadband internet with speeds of 60 Mbps or higher runs about $68.19 monthly, and a mobile phone plan with calls and 10GB or more of data costs approximately $64.
Transportation costs are another area where Hollywood residents can find savings. A one-way local transit ticket costs $1.50, and a monthly public transportation pass runs $70 — significantly lower than what commuters pay in larger metros. For drivers, gasoline averages $0.92 per liter (approximately $3.48 per gallon), in line with Florida state averages. The city's relatively compact layout and walkable downtown corridor also mean many residents can reduce their transportation expenses by choosing neighborhoods close to work and amenities.
How the Hollywood FL Cost of Living Compares
According to Salary.com, Hollywood's overall cost of living runs approximately 16% higher than the U.S. national average. A single person can expect to spend about $2,860 per month on basic living expenses, while a family of four faces roughly $6,299 in monthly costs. The average monthly net salary after tax in Hollywood is approximately $3,528, according to Numbeo — which means a single earner living alone would need to budget carefully, as rent alone can consume over 50% of take-home pay.
Florida's lack of a state income tax is a significant offsetting factor. Residents keep more of their gross income compared to counterparts in high-tax states like New York or California, which partially explains why Hollywood continues to attract relocating families and remote workers despite the coastal price premium.
Mortgage Rates and Affordability in Hollywood
For those considering homeownership, the current mortgage rate environment is a key factor. As of the week ending July 16, 2026, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 6.55%, according to Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey. For a buyer purchasing Hollywood's median-priced home at $490,000 with a 20% down payment ($98,000), the monthly principal-and-interest payment would be approximately $2,500 — before property taxes, insurance, and potential HOA fees.
Given the average net salary of $3,528, purchasing a median-priced home as a single earner would be challenging without a second income or a larger down payment. However, for dual-income households earning a combined $7,000+ per month, homeownership in Hollywood remains achievable, especially given Florida's tax advantages and the city's lifestyle appeal.
Quick Facts: Hollywood FL Cost of Living at a Glance
- Median home sale price: $490,000 (up 1.0% year-over-year — Redfin, 3 months ending May 2026)
- Average 1-bedroom rent (city center): $2,294/month (Numbeo, June 2026)
- Average 1-bedroom rent (outside center): $1,850/month (Numbeo, June 2026)
- Basic monthly utilities: $144.18 (Numbeo, June 2026)
- Average monthly net salary (after tax): $3,528.40 (Numbeo, June 2026)
- 30-year fixed mortgage rate: 6.55% (Freddie Mac, week ending July 16, 2026)
Frequently Asked Questions About the Hollywood FL Cost of Living
Is Hollywood, FL expensive to live in?
Hollywood's overall cost of living runs about 16% above the U.S. national average, according to Salary.com. Housing is the primary driver, with median home prices at $490,000 and one-bedroom rents averaging $1,850 to $2,294 per month. However, Florida's lack of state income tax helps offset some of these costs.
How much do I need to earn to live comfortably in Hollywood, FL?
Based on Numbeo data, a single person needs a net monthly income of at least $3,500 to cover basic expenses, while Salary.com estimates monthly costs of $2,860 for singles and $6,299 for a family of four. A gross annual salary of $60,000 or more is generally recommended for a single person, while families should target $90,000 or higher.
Are utilities expensive in Hollywood, FL?
Utilities in Hollywood are actually quite reasonable. Basic utilities for an 85-square-meter apartment average $144.18 per month, which is below the national average for comparable climates. Electricity costs are suppressed at approximately 14.14 cents per kWh, compared to the U.S. average of 16 cents.
Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Hollywood, FL?
With a median home price of $490,000 and current mortgage rates at 6.55%, the monthly cost of homeownership often exceeds renting for single earners. However, for those who can afford the down payment and plan to stay long-term, building equity in a stable, appreciating market like Hollywood can be financially advantageous over time.
Understanding the Hollywood FL cost of living is the first step toward making a confident decision about your future. At True Oak Realty, we help buyers and renters navigate South Florida's real estate landscape with data-driven insights and local expertise. Call us at (954) 280-7778 or visit trueoakrealty.com to find your perfect home in Hollywood or anywhere across Broward and Palm Beach counties.
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