Average Rent in Hardee County, FL↓ Rents falling 9.9% YoY
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 25,508
Market Overview
Hardee County, FL has rental prices ranging from $953/month to $1,885/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $958/month — 32% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $54,231/year, spending $958/month on a 1-bedroom represents 21% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Hardee County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,124/month, Hardee County ranks #36 most expensive of the 56 cities tracked in Florida — pricier than 67% of all US cities in our data.
The Hardee County Rental Market
The Hardee County, FL area has a population of about 25,508 and 29% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Hardee County, FL have fallen by $124/month (9.9%) over the past year, from $1,248 to $1,124. This rate of decrease is significant and reflects softening demand or increased inventory in the local market.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Hardee County, FL without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $38,320. The local median household income of $54,231 exceeds that threshold by $15,911, making Hardee County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Hardee County, FL has an unemployment rate of 6.0%, 2.1 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2027Is Hardee County, FL Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in FLlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Lauderdale | $1,759 | $1,902 | $2,321 | $3,172 | — |
| West Palm Beach | $1,907 | $2,008 | $2,349 | $3,052 | — |
| Miami | $1,953 | $2,121 | $2,564 | $3,277 | — |
| Tampa | $1,597 | $1,648 | $1,917 | $2,448 | — |
| Orlando | $1,658 | $1,726 | $1,959 | $2,445 | — |
| Jacksonville | $1,401 | $1,421 | $1,694 | $2,077 | — |
Rent or Buy in Hardee County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Hardee County data
Buying breaks even after 2 years — worth it if you stay 2+ years.
Living in Hardee County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Hardee CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in FLSee how Hardee County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Hardee CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
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