Bay County is reportedly the 21st most expensive land in the state

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) – Everyone has expenses, namely household bills, things like mortgage, rent and utilities.

Well, a company called Doxo Insights recently did a national report on these numbers, and News Channel 7 looked at the bills locally.

The report shows a tale of two cities.

Panama City is the 147th most expensive city in the state and across the bridge, Panama City Beach is the 73rd most expensive.

What does this mean on a larger scale?

Panama City Beach pays about 9% more on household bills compared to the national average. Panama City, on the other hand, is 8% below average.

Bay County as a whole ranks in the top third of all Florida counties in spending and ranks 21st in the state.

Panama City Beach residents weren’t very surprised by the findings.

“I mean, it’s the price of living on the beach. I wouldn’t say it’s worth it, but when you look at the beach every day and live in this beautiful state, it kind of makes sense,” said Patrick H., a Panama City Beach resident.

Those on the city side say they would also expect higher prices on the beach.

“I feel like I don’t experience that compared to them. I think there is a higher rate there because of the tourism factor,” said Katrina S., a Panama City resident.

While the total amount of money spent may vary between the two cities, the percentage of their income they use for bills has not changed significantly: 38% in Panama City versus 37% in Panama City Beach.

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