Daytona Beach Area

The Daytona Beach area, located on the east coast of Florida, offers a range of opportunities for those seeking a vibrant and fulfilling lifestyle. The region is home to several cities, each with its own unique charm and amenities. Daytona Beach, known for its iconic speedway and vibrant motorsports culture, provides a lively atmosphere with diverse dining options.

Ormond Beach, a tranquil and picturesque city, boasts stunning natural beauty and a thriving arts community. Port Orange, with its friendly and welcoming ambiance, offers a variety of recreational amenities and shopping opportunities; and New Smyrna Beach is renowned for its pristine beaches and relaxed ambiance. Whether it's relaxing on the pristine beaches, exploring local shops and restaurants, or engaging in outdoor pursuits, the Daytona Beach area provides a desirable location for active adults looking to embrace a sun filled retirement experience.

Daytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau - Official website for tourism and visitor information, providing insights into the area's attractions, events, and activities.
The Daytona Beach News-Journal - As the primary daily newspaper serving the area, it provides local news, events, and lifestyle articles that can give insights into the community.
City of Ormond Beach - The official website of Ormond Beach provides useful resources and updates about the city's services, events, and recreational opportunities.
Ormond Beach Observer - A local newspaper providing news, events, and community updates for residents and newcomers in Ormond Beach.

Affordability and Cost of Living

The Daytona Beach area offers a relatively affordable cost of living, making it an attractive choice for individuals considering retirement. When it comes to housing, the region provides a range of options to suit various budgets. While beachfront properties and upscale neighborhoods may command higher prices, there are also more affordable housing options available, particularly in the surrounding cities and towns. The median home cost in the Daytona Beach area is between $245,100 and generally lower than in larger metropolitan areas in Florida, such as Miami or Orlando. The overall cost of living in the Daytona Beach area is lower than both state and national averages, primarily due to lower housing costs. Other daily costs like groceries, transportation and utilities are all 3 to 12 percent lower than the U.S. average, however healthcare costs are 3 percent higher than the national average.

Florida is a popular retirement spot partially because of the state’s tax structure. Florida has no income tax, or estate tax. Property tax varies by county and there are several exemptions for seniors and low-income residents that can reduce the property tax burden. Sales tax in Florida is 6 percent although local counties may add additional taxes. Currently the sales tax in the Daytona Beach area is 6.5 percent.

Climate and Geography

The Daytona Beach area boasts a pleasant subtropical climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. During the winter months, temperatures range from the low 50s to the low 70s offering a respite from colder climates. Summers in the Daytona Beach area bring warmer temperatures and high humidity. Average low temperatures are in the low 70s to mid-80s and highs range from the mid-80s to low 90s with 70 to 80 percent humidity. The area receives an average annual rainfall amount of approximately 50 inches, ensuring lush tropical greenery. The Daytona Beach area may occasionally experience severe weather events like tropical storms or hurricanes due to its coastal location.

The Daytona Beach area enjoys stunning Atlantic Ocean beaches that stretch for miles, offering opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The Halifax River, which runs parallel to the coast, provides picturesque views and water-based recreational activities such as boating and fishing. Residents also enjoy exploring trails, observing native plants and wildlife at local nature parks, preserves, and wildlife refuges. The proximity to the ocean and the array of natural attractions contribute to the area's charm and offer a delightful environment for active retirees to enjoy.

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment

No matter if you're an outdoor enthusiast, art lover, history buff, or avid shopper, the Daytona Beach area has something to offer everyone.

Golf and Racquet Sports

LPGA International Golf Club in Daytona Beach
Crane Lakes Golf and Country Club in Port Orange
The Club at Pelican Bay in Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach Tennis Center in Daytona Beach

Hiking, Biking, and Boating

Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail in Ormond Beach
Tiger Bay State Forest in Daytona Beach
Spruce Creek Park in Port Orange
Ponce Preserve in Ponce Inlet

Museums and Historical Sites

Halifax Historical Museum in Daytona Beach
Ormond Memorial Art Museum and Gardens in Ormond Beach
Mary McLeod Bethune Home in Daytona Beach
Southeast Museum of Photography in Daytona Beach

Performing Arts

Peabody Auditorium in Daytona Beach
Athens Theatre in DeLand
News-Journal Center at Daytona State College in Daytona Beach
Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center in Ormond Beach

Shopping

Tanger Outlets Daytona Beach in Daytona Beach
One Daytona in Daytona Beach
The Pavilion at Port Orange in Port Orange
Riverfront Shops of Daytona Beach in Daytona Beach

Parks and Gardens

Tomoka State Park in Ormond Beach
Rockefeller Gardens Park in Ormond Beach
Dunlawton Sugar Mill Gardens in Port Orange
Manatee Island Park in Daytona Beach

Festivals and Fairs

Daytona Beach Bike Week in Daytona Beach
Halifax Art Festival in Daytona Beach
Port Orange Family Days in Port Orange
Greek Festival in Daytona Beach

Health and Wellness

The Daytona Beach area is well-equipped to support the health and wellness needs of its residents, offering a range of resources and opportunities for self-care and maintaining overall well-being. Halifax Health Medical Center in Daytona Beach is a leading hospital that offers a wide range of specialties and advanced medical treatments. AdventHealth Daytona Beach is another prominent medical facility in the area, providing high-quality healthcare services with a focus on holistic care.

For self-care and staying fit, the Daytona Beach area offers numerous options. There are several fitness centers, gyms, and yoga studios that cater to various fitness levels and preferences. Additionally, the region boasts beautiful parks, such as Tuscawilla Park in Daytona Beach and Central Park in Ormond Beach, which are popular for outdoor exercise, walking, and jogging. The area is also known for its scenic bike trails, including the popular Ormond Scenic Loop and Trail, which offers an opportunity to explore nature while staying active.

For those interested in staying healthy through nutrition the Daytona Beach area has several local farmers markets. The Daytona Beach Downtown Farmers Market is a popular destination that offers a wide array of fresh fruits, vegetables, artisanal products, and more. Another option is the Port Orange Farmers Market, where visitors can find a variety of locally grown and crafted goods.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

When considering retirement in the Daytona Beach area, it's important to visit and explore the region to get a sense of its suitability for your retirement lifestyle. This two-day itinerary offers a mix of activities, dining options, and a meeting with a local 55places expert retirement community partner agent to help you gain a better understanding of the area and its offerings.

Day One

Morning:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast and coffee at the Dancing Avocado Kitchen in Daytona Beach, known for its fresh and healthy menu options.
After breakfast, head to Ormond Beach and visit Tomoka State Park, a serene natural oasis with scenic trails, perfect for a morning walk or hike.

Afternoon:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Hull's Seafood Market and Restaurant in Ormond Beach, a local favorite for its fresh seafood and waterfront views.
Spend the afternoon strolling along the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier, taking in the ocean breeze and the lively atmosphere.

Evening:

Indulge in a delightful dinner at The Cellar Restaurant in Daytona Beach, known for its upscale dining experience and extensive wine selection.
As the evening unfolds, take a relaxing walk along the Daytona Beach shoreline, enjoying the sunset and the calming sound of the waves.

Day Two

Morning:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Cracked Egg Diner in Daytona Beach Shores.
Meet with your 55places expert retirement community partner agent for a personalized tour and consultation about retirement communities in the Daytona Beach area.

Afternoon:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Stonewood Grill and Tavern in Daytona Beach, a popular eatery offering a variety of flavorful dishes and a laid-back ambiance.
Visit the Museum of Arts & Sciences in Daytona Beach to explore its diverse exhibits and collections, including fine art, science, and regional history.

Evening:

For dinner, visit The Garlic in New Smyrna Beach, a renowned restaurant offering an exquisite menu featuring garlic-infused culinary creations.
After dinner, take a stroll along Flagler Avenue in New Smyrna Beach, where you can explore unique shops, art galleries, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Getting to the Daytona Beach Area

The Daytona Beach area is easily accessible through various modes of transportation, including air, road, and rail. Here are directions for visitors considering retirement in the area:

Flying:

The closest major airport to the Daytona Beach area is Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB). It is served by multiple airlines, including:

American Airlines: Connects through hubs such as Charlotte (CLT) and Philadelphia (PHL).
Delta Air Lines: Connects through hubs such as Atlanta (ATL) and New York (JFK).
United Airlines: Connects through hubs such as Chicago (ORD) and Washington, D.C. (IAD).

Driving:

Major highways that lead into the Daytona Beach area include:

Interstate 95 (I-95): Runs along the east coast of the United States and provides easy access to the region from the north and south.
Interstate 4 (I-4): Connects Daytona Beach with Orlando and other parts of Central Florida.

By Train:

While there is no direct passenger rail service to the Daytona Beach area, Amtrak offers stations in nearby cities such as DeLand and Orlando. From there, visitors can rent a car or take a shuttle service to reach their destination in the Daytona Beach area.

By Boat:

For those arriving by boat, there are marinas and docking facilities available in the area. Popular ports of entry include the Halifax Harbor Marina in Daytona Beach and the Ponce Inlet Marina in Ponce Inlet.

Affordability and Cost of Living

Climate and Geography