Planning your move to the Sunshine State? You’re not alone! More than 350,000 people move to Florida annually, which is why Florida’s population has reached 22.6 million, growing 1% YoY since 2019!
Companies are also moving to Florida. The Sunshine State witnessed 86% growth in new businesses, indicating a strong economy and a robust job market. Florida’s cost of living is $4,224/mo, and the $0 state income tax appeal to potential movers, too.
6 Reasons to Move to Florida
Florida is one of the favorite relocation destinations for Americans. Here are six reasons to move to Florida.
| # | Reasons to Move to FL | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Cost of Living | The cost of living in Florida is 2% lower than the national average. |
| 2. | Tax Benefits | The Sunshine State does not impose any state income taxes. |
| 3. | Employment | Florida aims to add 2 million jobs by 2030 across different sectors. |
| 4. | Education | Florida is home to renowned educational institutes like the Ransom Everglades School and the University of Florida. |
| 5. | Healthcare | 3rd largest network of hospitals in the country with more than 350 hospitals. |
| 6. | Climate | Florida offers warm weather and mild winters. However, the state is prone to natural disasters. |
1. Cost of Living in Florida
Living in Florida is not expensive. It is 2% lower than the national average, which is pretty affordable compared to states like Massachusetts and New York, where living costs are 46% and 26% above the national average, respectively.
Here’s a breakdown of basic expenses in top metros in Florida.
| Metro | Home Price | Home Renting/mo | Public Transport/mo | Utilities/mo | Food/mo |
| Miami | $587,252 | $3,300 | $126 | $246 | $450 |
| Tampa | $385,903 | $1,975 | $58 | $217 | $462 |
| Orlando | $385,207 | $1,950 | $46 | $237 | $421 |
| Jacksonville | $301,690 | $1,550 | $63 | $253 | $388 |
2. Tax Benefits
Florida is among the top US states that levy zero state income tax. For example, if you earn $70,000 in Florida, your after-tax income totals $62,340. In California, your post-tax income comes out to $59,552. This means you can save nearly $3,000 in taxes in the Sunshine State annually.
Moreover, the property taxes in Florida are 0.71%, significantly lower than in states like New York, where they are 1.62%. The current sales tax in Florida is 6%.
3. Employment Opportunities in Florida
Florida’s robust economy offers various employment opportunities across several industries. The Sunshine State aims to add 2 million new jobs by the end of 2030.
- Technology: Florida’s tech sector is booming. Since 2023, the state has added 38,900 new jobs in the tech industry. The major employers in the state include Chewy, Magic Leap, and Ultimate Software.
- Healthcare: The predicted job growth in Florida’s healthcare sector is roughly 200,000 over the next decade.
- Tourism: The tourism industry in Florida contributes about $121.5 billion to the state’s economy and boasts over 1.5 million jobs, ranging from hospitality to entertainment. Tourist destinations like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios are the driving force of the job market in Florida.
- Agriculture: With over 9.5 million acres of farmland, agriculture in Florida can be lucrative. The sector offers more than 1 million jobs ranging from farm labor to food processing.
4. Education and Schools in Florida
Florida ranks 1st across the country in terms of education. The state has the second-highest rates of timely graduation among public institutions.
1. Schools in Florida
Florida has one of the most prominent network schools in the country. It serves over 2.8 million students across 68 districts. These are further divided into different types.
- Magnet Programs: These are free public schools that offer specialized programs in science, technology, arts, and international studies. Magnet schools like Millenium Middle School and MAST Academy draw students from various districts and provide a distinct, top-grade education.
- Charter Schools: Florida has over 700 charter schools serving over 300,000 students. These schools are run separately from the regular public system and don’t charge tuition fees. They provide specialized education in the arts or STEM fields.
- Private Schools: Florida boasts over 2,000 private schools, which are famous for their academic excellence and personalized attention. The average tuition fee for a private school in Florida is $10,526. Some notable private schools in the Sunshine State are Ransom Everglades School in Miami and the Bolles School in Jacksonville.
2. Higher Education in Florida
Florida is the best state in the country for education and is the cup-bearer of academic excellence. The Sunshine State is home to institutes like the University of Florida, Florida State University, and the University of Miami. These institutes are known for their academic excellence in science, law, business, engineering, etc.
In addition, Florida International University in Miami is famous for its research and international studies programs. For the first year, FIU awards merit-based scholarships to international students.
5. Healthcare in Florida
The Sunshine State ranks third in the list of states with the most hospitals, with a network of more than 350. Florida has many hospitals across special divisions, such as oncology, cardiology, orthopedics, etc.
The Cleveland Clinic in Weston is known for its cardiovascular care and medical research. Moreover, the state also has options for children’s hospitals. The Niklaus Children’s Hospital is recognized for its excellent pediatric care.
6. Climate
Florida offers a warm climate with 230 to 250 sunny days a year. The weather allows outdoor enthusiasts access to beaches, surfing, kayaking, and other sports like golf throughout the year without extreme seasonal changes.
Apart from this, moving to Florida can be a wise option if you like activities such as boating, hiking, biking, and fishing. You can go hiking on the infamous Florida National Scenic Trail.
Cost of Moving to Florida 💲
There are additional costs involved in moving from one state to another. Here’s a breakdown of costs you may incur while relocating to FL.
1. Moving Costs ~ $450 to $4,000
Moving to FL involves several costs, including the costs involved in moving your belongings.
- Florida movers typically cost $116 per hour. However, this figure depends entirely on your belongings and the distance traveled.
- If you want to DIY your move, renting a truck can be a better option. The average rent of a mid-size moving truck with a load capacity of 4,000-6,000 pounds ranges between $40 and $80 per day.
- 👉 Tip: Moving can be expensive, especially if you are selling your home before you move. In this case, you can use a Flat Fee MLScompany to save on listing agent commissions. This way, you can have additional cash when you move to Florida.
2. Utility Expenses ~ $400 to $500 Per Month
Apart from moving and housing costs, you will have to incur utility expenses when migrating to Florida.
- When moving to FL, you must set up utilities like gas, electricity, water, etc. The average utility bill in Florida is around $195/month.
- You will have to register your vehicle in Florida. The first-time registration cost of a passenger vehicle in FL is around $400. A typical renewal costs around $46/year.
3. Housing Costs
Housing costs in the Sunshine State can vary depending on your location.
- In popular cities like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando, you can rent between $1,950 to $3,300 on average.
- However, buying can be complex as home prices vary across the state. Make sure you find cheap houses for sale in Florida in your budget. Homes in coastal cities like Sarasota cost a median $457K, while those in Jacksonville cost $301K.
3 Things to Know Before Moving to Florida💡
Before you pack your bags for the Sunshine State, here are three essential things to know that can impact your decision.
1. Weather Conditions
Florida is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms. The most affected areas are coastal cities like West Palm Beach, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale. The hurricane season in Florida starts in June and lasts till November and peaks between August and October.
You should always have an emergency kit, including food supplies, essential medicines, and important documents, in case of a hurricane. Purchasing hazard insurance is the best way to protect your property.
2. Local Laws and Regulations
- Driving Laws: Florida has unique driving laws. For instance, FL traffic laws prioritize children’s safety. On a two-lane road, drivers from both directions must stop when a school bus displays a stop sign.
- Gun Laws: Florida operates as a ‘shall issue’ state, meaning residents who meet certain criteria are eligible to obtain a concealed carry permit.
3. Wildlife and Nature
Florida has a diverse range of wildlife, including alligators, snakes, and insects. These animals are frequently encountered in areas with water bodies. It is advised that you avoid walking near rivers or water bodies at night.
4 Tips for a Seamless Move to Florida ✅
Moving to a new place can be tough. Here are some tips to help you make a smooth transition.
- Research Cities and Neighborhoods: It’s important to research the area you want to live in. You must know if your home is in the city or suburbs. Find out where the nearby schools, hospitals, coffee shops, or restaurants are.
- Find the Living Costs: Your living costs will change once you migrate. Before moving to FL, get an estimate of the basic living expenses in your desired location.
- Visit the Neighborhood: Once you’ve decided where you want to live. You must visit that Florida neighborhood in person and see what you feel about the area.
- Meet Your Neighbors: Connect with your neighbors and socialize. Local Facebook groups can be the best way to meet your neighbors.
Is Moving to Florida a Good Idea?
Moving to Florida offers a range of benefits, from its favorable tax policies and lower cost of living to a robust job market and year-round warm weather. The state appeals to diverse lifestyles, whether you’re seeking economic opportunities, top-notch education, or outdoor activities.
However, it’s essential to be prepared for the unique challenges, like hurricane seasons and local wildlife. With thoughtful planning, moving to Florida can be a rewarding decision, providing a vibrant and affordable lifestyle in the Sunshine State.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much would it cost to move to Florida?
The average moving cost in FL can go up to $4,000. However, this depends on the quantity you're moving and how far you're moving.
Is Florida cheaper than New York?
Yes, Florida is significantly cheaper than New York. The cost of living in FL is 45% lower than in New York. Explore the cheapest places to live in Florida to get a better understanding.
What to know before moving to Florida?
A few things to know before moving to FL include a thorough study of local ordinances and gun laws. Apart from that, Florida experiences extreme weather like hurricanes and storms, so you should be prepared for that.
What are some of the good places to live in Florida?
Tampa, Sarasota, and Naples are some of Florida's best places to live. Tampa is known for its modern city life, historic charm, and beach access. Sarasota County is often considered an excellent place to live, work, vacation, and raise a family.
What are some cheap places to live in Florida?
Lake City and Deltona are some of Florida's cheapest places to live. The median home price in Lake City and Deltona is $256K and $313K, respectively. Living costs are 16% and 5.1% below the national average.
