Thinking About Moving to Florida? Here's What It's Really Like
Moving to Florida sounds like a dream for a lot of people. Beaches, sunshine, no state income tax. It checks a lot of boxes. But like any place, it has its ups and downs. If you’re thinking about making the move, it helps you to know what to expect. This guide covers the cost of living, taxes, places to live, transportation, and the real pros and cons of living in Florida.
Cost of Living in Florida (2025 Update)
Florida isn’t the cheapest place, but it’s not the most expensive either. Where you live will make a big difference. Cities like Miami and Naples cost more. Smaller towns or areas farther inland tend to be easier on your budget.
Here’s a basic idea of everyday costs:
• Buying a home: Statewide, the average price is about $410,000. In Miami, it’s much higher.
• Rent: Expect to pay around $1,600 to $2,300 a month for a one-bedroom in a city. Smaller towns are usually cheaper.
• Utilities: You’ll probably spend $150 to $250 a month, especially since air conditioning runs a lot.
• Groceries: Prices are slightly above average. One person might spend around $350 to $500 each month.
• Gas: Usually around $3.40 a gallon.
• Healthcare: Florida tends to be on the expensive side, especially if you don’t have good insurance.
If you choose your location wisely, living here can be manageable.
Taxes in Florida
One big reason people move to Florida is simple. There’s no state income tax.
That means more money in your pocket. Whether you’re working or retired, the state doesn’t take a cut in your paycheck or pension.
Here’s how it looks:
• State income tax: None
• Sales tax: Around 6 percent, but some counties add more
• Property tax: Usually between 0.8 and 1.1 percent
• Retirement income: Not taxed
This tax setup can help you stretch your income, especially if you're living on a fixed budget.
Where People Are Moving in Florida
Florida is a large state with lots of different places to live. Whether you want city life, quiet beaches, or something in the middle, there’s probably a spot that fits your lifestyle.
Miami
• Fast paced and full of energy
• Strong Latin American culture
• Expensive, crowded, and hot but never boring
Orlando
• More than just theme parks
• Growing job market in healthcare and tech
• More affordable than Miami but still a busy city
Tampa Bay Area
• Includes Tampa, St. Pete, and Clearwater
• Mix of beaches, city neighborhoods, and suburbs
• Popular with families and young professionals
Jacksonville
• Big city with a slower pace
• More affordable housing and less traffic
• Close to Georgia with a mix of southern and coastal feel
Sarasota and Naples
• Smaller and quieter
• Popular with retirees
• Beautiful beaches but more expensive
Getting Around in Florida
Most people drive. You’ll want your own car. Public transportation exists in some cities, but it’s limited.
• Highways: Roads are in good shape and easy to use, but many have tolls
• Tolls: A SunPass helps save time and money
• Public transportation:
o Miami has trains and buses, but traffic is tough
o Orlando has a commuter train and bus system
o Tampa has buses but not many trains options
• Airports: Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale all have large airports
• Biking: Some cities are improving for cyclists, but the heat makes it hard to ride long distances
Pros of Living in Florida
Ask anyone who's moved to Florida, and they'll likely mention a few of the same things:
• You don’t really need winter clothes. It stays warm most of the year, even in January.
• The beach is never too far, no matter where you live. Some folks hit the sand every weekend.
• There’s no state income tax. That alone is a big deal for people who work remotely or are retired.
• You’ve got options. Whether you want city life, a quiet suburb, or a laid-back coastal town, Florida has all of it.
• It’s easy to stay busy. There’s always a festival, sports game, live music, or something going on.
• Retirees like the slower pace in some towns and all the communities built with older adults in mind.
• Traveling is simple. Big airports in places like Orlando, Miami, and Tampa mean you can get almost anywhere without a lot of hassle.
Cons of Living in Florida
Now, Florida isn’t perfect. Living here means dealing with a few things that might catch you off guard:
• Hurricanes are real, not just something you hear about on the news. June through November can be stressful if a storm rolls in.
• The heat isn’t just hot, it’s sticky. You’ll walk outside in the summer and feel like you hit a wall of steam.
• Bugs are everywhere. Mosquitoes, fire ants, even the occasional palmetto bug indoors. You get used to it, but it’s not fun.
• If you’re in a city, traffic can get messy. Between locals and tourists, things back up fast during peak times.
• Insurance can cost a lot, especially if your place is close to the water. Some people spend more than they expected just to get decent coverage.
• You’ll see wildlife in unexpected places. Alligators in golf course ponds, snakes in the backyard, raccoons in the trash.
• Healthcare can be hit or miss depending on where you are. In some towns it’s great. In others, not so much. And it’s rarely cheap.
Florida has its challenges but knowing them ahead of time helps you plan.
Things to Know Before You Move
Here are a few tips to help you get settled more smoothly:
• Visit during both summer and winter to see how the weather feels
• Compare home insurance quotes since prices vary
• Live farther inland if storms worry you
• Update your driver's license and registration right after you move
• Check the rules if you’re buying in a homeowner’s association
• Think about flood insurance even if your area doesn’t require it
Final Thoughts
Florida offers a lot. The sun, the beaches, and no state income tax are big draws. But the heat, storms, and higher insurance costs are also part of the deal.
If you know what to expect and can adjust to the lifestyle, Florida might be a good fit. Visit a few places first. Talk to locals. Think about what kind of pace and environment you want.
And when you're ready, bring sunscreen and a good pair of sandals. You'll need both.
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