Thinking of Moving to Florida? Here's the Real Deal.
So, you're thinking about packing up and heading to the Sunshine State. Maybe it's the weather. Maybe you're tired of shoveling snow. Maybe your cousin moved to Tampa and won't shut up about it. Whatever your reason, Florida is calling—and before you answer, let’s cut through the brochure fluff and get real about what moving to Florida actually means.
Sunshine, Yes. But Also Sweat.
Let’s start with the obvious: the weather. Florida boasts an average of 230+ sunny days per year. That’s great for beach days, golfing, boating, and just sitting outside with a cold drink. But don’t forget, the flip side of that sunshine is heat—and lots of it. Summers are hot, humid, and sticky. Think "walking into a sauna" vibes from June through September. And yes, hurricane season is real. You’ll want a plan, a generator, and maybe a therapist after your first Cat 4 scare.
No State Income Tax – That’s a Big Deal
One of the biggest draws? Florida doesn’t take a dime of your income. That’s right—no state income tax. If you’re coming from California, New York, or anywhere else with high taxes, it’s a financial breath of fresh air. Combine that with relatively low property taxes and it’s easy to see why so many retirees, remote workers, and entrepreneurs are making the move.
Real Estate: A Mixed Bag of Gold and Gotchas
The Florida housing market is hot—still. But don’t expect 2012 prices. Coastal towns like Merritt Island, Naples, and Sarasota have seen significant appreciation. Inventory can be tight, especially in high-demand markets, but deals exist if you’ve got a sharp eye (or a sharp agent). HOAs are common and vary wildly, so read the fine print. And yes—flood insurance is a thing, and it’s not cheap if you’re near the water.
The Vibe? Pick Your Flavor
Florida isn’t one-size-fits-all. You’ve got:
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South Florida – Fast-paced, flashy, and multicultural. Think Miami glam and Fort Lauderdale canals.
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Central Florida – Theme parks, booming suburbs, and space launches. Great for families and tech workers.
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North Florida – More southern than southern. Think Georgia with palm trees.
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The Gulf Coast – Slower pace, beautiful beaches, and heavy retirement communities.
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The Space Coast (yep, Merritt Island) – A hidden gem. Oceanfront meets aerospace. Less chaos, more charm.
Choose your spot wisely. Each region has its own culture, cost of living, and pace of life.
What No One Tells You (But Should)
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Bugs are a thing. Palmetto bugs, mosquitos, no-see-ums. Get pest control on speed dial.
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Tourist seasons can clog your roads and restaurants. You’ll learn to plan around snowbirds and spring breakers.
Final Thought: Florida Isn't for Everyone—But It Might Be for You
Florida is beautiful, diverse, tax-friendly, and full of opportunity—but it's not perfect. It’s wild, weird, and unpredictable. If you can handle the heat (literally and figuratively), it might just be the best move you’ll ever make.
Want a personalized take on where in Florida might be right for you? Drop me a line—I live and work here, and I don’t just sell the dream. I help you live it.