What to know when moving to Tallahassee, FL
TL;DR: Tallahassee at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A highly educated ZIP where 45% of residents hold a bachelor's degree and 71.6% rent.
- The Major Draw:
- Median household income is $50,412, providing a solid economic base.
- The Reality Check:
- 23.7% of residents live below the poverty line, indicating economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 2.3% of the population uses public transit, suggesting a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $1,200/month in rent to find a place that fits your needs.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Tallahassee is characterized by its educational focus, with 45% of residents holding a bachelor's degree. The community is largely comprised of renters, with 71.6% of the population renting their homes. However, with a poverty rate of 23.7%, there are economic challenges present, which newcomers should be aware of.
Probably not your spot if you are seeking a strong public transit system, as only 2.3% of residents commute using public transportation.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $1,200, which is quite affordable compared to many urban areas.
- Median home value is $211,900, providing options for homebuyers.
- 45% of residents have a bachelor's degree, contributing to a well-educated community.
- 23.7% of residents live below the poverty line, indicating economic challenges.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Schools & Higher Ed
In Tallahassee, there are seven postsecondary institutions, providing a range of educational opportunities.
- Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University
- Florida State University
- Keiser University-Tallahassee
- Lively Technical College
- North Florida Cosmetology Institute
- Tallahassee State College
- World Class Academy of Beauty Careers
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Tallahassee experiences about 40.4 inches of rainfall annually, spread over 99 rainy days. This means you might want to invest in some rain gear. The climate is mild, with no snowfall, making outdoor activities possible year-round.
- Cascades Park (4.7 stars, 5,145 reviews)
- Tallahassee Museum (4.7 stars, 2,830 reviews)
- Lake Ella Park (4.5 stars, 2,399 reviews)
- Tom Brown Park (4.7 stars, 1,832 reviews)
- Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park (4.8 stars, 1,767 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Leon County, where Tallahassee is located, the unemployment rate is 4.9% as of December 2025, with 157,743 employed individuals out of a labor force of 165,840.
- Unemployment rate: 4.9% (December 2025)
- Employed: 157,743
- Labor force: 165,840
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.