Are you planning to relocate to Florida? It appears that everyone is migrating to the Sunshine State these days, and for a bountiful of good reasons. With a population of 21 million inhabitants, Florida is the third most populous state in the United States.
The state’s economy is based on tourism, transportation, and agriculture, and it is the country’s fourth-biggest. There are many reasons to appreciate living in Florida, which is known for its beautiful beaches, mild weather, and popularity as a retirement destination.
Let’s take a look at a few things you would like to know about moving to Florida.
A Long and Interesting History
Ponce De Leon, a Spanish explorer, landed on the peninsula in 1513 and named it La Florida for the region’s beautiful scenery. Following that, Spain established a number of colonies in Florida, notably St. Augustine. When the British arrived in the area, the English and Spanish decided to divide the territory into two halves.
West Florida was ruled by the English, while East Florida was ruled by Spain. Years later, the area became a popular destination for fugitive slaves. Americans from the United Kingdom, Scotland, and Ireland began to settle in northern Florida.
During this period, Spain still had possession of Florida. On March 30, 1822, East and West Florida were combined to form one state as the region began to become a burden to Spain rather than an advantage.
Florida is now the most populous state in the southern United States. The state has continued to grow over the last few years as a result of the influx of out-of-state movers.
Florida’s Weather Is Warm
The beautiful warm weather and bright days are some of the top reasons to relocate to Florida. It is the hottest state in the US, with an average daily temperature of 70 degrees. It’s no surprise that a large number of visitors visit throughout the winter months.
While the summers can be extremely hot and humid, it is a tropical lover’s dream come true. Air conditioning comes to the rescue of many dwellers.
During the winter months, when the rest of the country is trapped indoors due to the cold, you’ll adore living in Florida. Southern Florida seldom experiences below-freezing weather, thus people are rarely required to wear a thick coat.
In the state of Florida, 200 of the 365 days a year are sunny. There’s a reason it’s known as “Sunshine State.” Prepare to obtain your daily dosage of Vitamin D, thanks to the warm and sunny weather.
Florida is the state to visit if you want to spend almost all of your time at the beach or in the pool.When spending the day outside, don’t forget to apply lots of sunscreens and to carry your hat and sunglasses.
It can get harsh:
While the weather may be pleasant and beautiful, severe weather is typical because the state is bordered on both sides by the sea. Florida, in fact, has one of the highest average precipitation amounts in the United States. Central Florida is also renowned as the “United States Lightning Capital.” Be on the lookout for strong thunderstorms that may appear out of nowhere.
It’s also crucial to bear in mind hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Always remember to have a rain jacket or umbrella with you since you never know when you’ll need it. Everyone wants to live near the beach, which is one of the main reasons people move to Florida.
Breathtaking Beach Life
Florida boasts having some of the most spectacular beaches on the planet. What could be better than soaking in the sun on a white-sand beach in Florida during the summer?… very few things could match the experience.
The state of Florida boasts miles of coastline and plenty of beaches. Set up your beach chair and stay for a while on some of the country’s most gorgeous and breathtaking beaches. You will have access to some of the greatest beaches in the country while living in Florida!
The Florida Beaches
Florida has 1,200 miles of coastline and 825 miles of beaches. You’re never far from a waterfront weekend of fun. Here are a few places to look for a spectacular beach experience.
- Destin: With warm Gulf seas and a laid-back attitude, Destin is one of Florida’s greatest beaches. The waterfront is frequented by dolphins, sea turtles, and other local animals. Locals take a break from the beach by exploring the dunes of Henderson Beach State Park’s nature paths.
- Sanibel Island is well-known for its sunsets, lighthouses, and shelling. Locals go to the beaches for fishing, boating, and the opportunity to reconnect with nature.
- Clearwater Beach: Clearwater Beach is known for its beautiful shoreline and white sand. Jet skiing, parasailing, and a seashore with seafood restaurants and festivals attract visitors.
- Amelia Island: Part of the Sea Islands series of barrier islands, Amelia Island is home to luxury resorts and hotels. The region has 13 miles of beaches and is home to a diverse range of animals.
- Naples: This southwest Florida city that sits on the Gulf of Mexico is a popular Florida tourist destination. It attracts high-end shopping enthusiasts as well as golfers. Locals go to the historic Naples Pier for dolphin-watching and fishing possibilities.
- Key West: Live near Key West’s shoreline and coral reefs. If you’re looking for the cheapest place to live in the Florida Keys, Key West could be ideal for you. The region draws water enthusiasts and cultural seekers due to its beautiful snorkeling and diving opportunities. The Hemingway House and a number of cruise ship stops are among the attractions in Key West.
- Panama City Beach: Panama City Beach is known for its kilometers of sandy beaches, calm seas, and lively atmosphere. Beach and souvenir stores fill the streets. St. Andrews State Park, on the other hand, has natural preserves.
Florida’s Living Expenses
Florida is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the United States, but it is also one of the cheapest. If you’re wondering how much it costs to live in Florida, the cost of the living index shows that the state’s cost of living is 1 percent cheaper than the national average. However, because the state is so large, it all depends on which city you choose to reside in.
Some Florida communities might rank higher or lower than the national average. Keeping this in mind, while deciding where to reside, it’s critical to evaluate the cost of living in the locations you’re considering. When you decide to relocate, make sure you budget appropriately so you can afford the place you intend to move to in Florida.
If you’re going from New York, for example, plan on spending between $1,700 and $3,000. Many people who relocate to Florida come considerable distances to avoid the cold and high costs of living in the north!
You may have heard that Florida’s cost of living is greater than the national average, but the fact is that it is just somewhat more. The average cost of living in the United States is given as 100. Meanwhile, the cost of living in Florida is 102.8.
It’s merely a 2% rise. While this is an important point to consider, it does not account for a significant difference in actual terms. The overall median house price in the United States is $231,200, while the typical home price in Florida is $237,000.
So, if you’re concerned about the expense of living in Florida, here’s what we have to say: it’s something to think about, but it shouldn’t quite be a deal-breaker when determining whether or not to relocate to the Sunshine State.
Florida Real Estate and Housing
Check out real estate in Kissimmee, Palm Coast, Cape Coral, Palm Bay, Orlando, or Gainesville if you want to get the most bang for your dollars. These six cities are believed to be among the most inexpensive in Florida, which is one of the main reasons why people are relocating.
For a variety of reasons, purchasing real estate in Florida might be a wise investment. Because Florida has such a large population, there is a great deal of demand for homes. Southern Florida home costs are somewhat higher than the rest of the state.
There are various architectural styles to choose from to suit your preferences, so there is a home for everyone. Purchase a beachfront Spanish-style house or a modest apartment near a marina. Because Florida is a popular retirement destination, there are several gated communities and retirement homes. Everyone can find a home in this tropical paradise, and we’re here to help you find it!
Many houses in Florida are surrounded by water and have pools, making them some of the most beautiful in the country. If you live in Florida, you will love having access to water throughout the hot months so you can cool off!
Unbeatable Theme Parks
Just two words: Disney World is a theme park in Orlando, Florida. Orlando, Florida is home to one of the world’s most recognized and recognizable attractions. Being within a short distance from this theme park is fantastic whether you have children or are a child at heart.
Furthermore, having convenient access to the park during the off-season means lesser crowds and shorter lineups.
Without the hassle of organizing a trip months in advance, opt to spend the day at Epcot or Magic Kingdom on the spur of the moment. On a weeknight, go to Disney Springs for supper and shopping. Residents of Florida can also take advantage of lower ticket rates. If you adore Disney World, being so near to the enchantment is a dream come true.
SeaWorld and Universal Orlando are also in Florida. It’s well worth it to have this much fun in your own backyard. Visit Harry Potter’s Wizarding World or Volcano Bay! Get your daily dose of roller coasters and once-in-a-lifetime thrills by living near these popular theme parks.
Florida’s theme parks are one of the state’s most popular attractions. Although it is not one of the primary reasons for people relocating to Florida, theme parks can provide excellent career possibilities!
Great Education
If you have children in school or are a college student, you will be pleased to learn one thing. Florida offers excellent school systems and some of the nation’s best top-rated institutions. Florida’s educational system is made up of both public and private institutions. There are around 3 million pupils enrolled in the state’s 4,269 public and private institutions.
Moreover, Florida was ranked second in the US for increasing high school graduation rates, which is a significant accomplishment. St. Johns County in St. Augustine is the best educational district in the state.
If you have school-aged children and want to enroll them in a school district, conduct some research on the school districts before making your decision.
For students seeking higher education, the Florida College System offers 28 community and state institutions. The student population in the University of Central Florida stood at 64,000+ ranking it top in the list of Florida’s largest universities in 2017. Other popular State universities include the following:
- Florida A&M University
- Florida Gulf Coast University
- Florida International University
- Florida Polytechnic University
- Florida State University
- New College of Florida
- University of Florida
- University of North Florida
- University of South Florida
- University of West Florida
Galaxy of Sports Fandom
Fans of sports that relocate to Florida will have no shortage of teams to cheer for each season. Florida, for example, features three NFL teams (Miami Dolphins, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers), two NBA teams (Orlando Magic, Miami Heat), two MLB baseball clubs (Tampa Bay Rays, Miami Marlins), and two NHL teams (Tampa Bay Lightning, Tampa Bay Lightning) (2020 Stanley Cup-champions Tampa Bay Lightning, Florida Panthers).
If university sports are more your style, you may choose between the University of Florida and Florida State University athletic teams, which compete on the field and court each year. One thing is certain: moving to Florida means relocating to one of the country’s sports capitals.
Outdoor Excursions
While being close to the beach is one of the most appealing aspects of living in Florida, there are plenty of things to do outside that aren’t only about sunbathing. Residents and tourists to Florida may explore and discover various landscapes. On a fan boat, spot massive alligators in the Everglades, or take a swim in one of the state’s freshwater springs.
Take a kayaking trip through the mangroves, learn to paddleboard. Go boating, ziplining, hiking, or ride in a hot air balloon to get a bird’s eye perspective of the Sunshine State. The fun activities here are endless.
Some Fun Activities to Consider:
- Madison Blue Springs: This beautiful spring situated in Tallahassee’s East is full of crystal clear water and offers tourists an ethereal experience. This transparent spring flows through limestone and even has caves beneath the surface. For swimmers, there are steps and a platform.
- Everglades Swamp Tours: Have you ever longed to get up and personal with an alligator? This swamp tour is at its best right now. Take a private trip on an airboat to see wildlife in their natural environment. At 35 miles per hour, speed deep into the marshes!
- Paradise Adventures: Sanibel and Captiva Islands are known for their tranquility and quiet. Take a sunset dolphin and wildlife cruise on a boat.
- Horseback Riding in Amelia Island: Ride a horse on the beach at Amelia Island! This is a fantastic experience that is well worth the money and is conveniently located near Jacksonville (check out moving to Jacksonville, Florida for more info). Take a cruise at sunrise, sunset, or throughout the day. This is an excellent date or special occasion suggestion.
Florida’s Public Transportation
The state of Florida isn’t renowned for having a lot of public transportation choices. You do, however, have some alternatives. It is possible to go by public bus or trolley for short distances. There are also free shuttles available in several sections of town.
Shuttles from Freebee and Circuit service locations across Southern Florida, including Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach. (You can check out our article on moving to Fort Lauderdale, Florida for more information about this great city).
Locals and visitors alike may take advantage of a free trip to the shopping, retail, and restaurant district. To travel about Miami Beach and Punta Gorda, a few localities provide bike-sharing programs. In almost every part of Florida, Uber and Lyft services are also widely available.
This means that if you don’t mind rideshares and living in the city, it is possible to live without a vehicle in Florida. However, the state is a true driving paradise. Vehicles are necessary for a flexible lifestyle and beach vacations.
Nightlife in Florida
Participate in the never-ending celebration that is Florida’s nightlife as a resident. Orlando and Miami are known for having some of the most prominent nightlife scenes in the world. Dance the night away at a club, sip a beverage in a lounge, or dine at a celebrity-owned five-star restaurant. Fort Lauderdale alone boasts 57 bars and 38 nightclubs.
Join these never-sleeping cities and experience life in Florida. When you relocate to Florida, you will have access to some of the greatest nightlife in the country.
If you enjoy beer, spend the night at one of Florida’s 200 breweries for a sample. Who knows, with so many craft breweries to select from, which one will become your new favorite. In addition, Florida is home to over 25 artisanal distilleries. Learn how to make a fresh drink while learning about the distillation process.
Best Places to Live In Florida
When planning on moving to Florida, a few things will automatically come to mind. Perhaps you’re in retirement, getting started with life, or raising a family. In either case, you could be thinking about the cheapest places to live in Florida, you are simply the ones that give you the best of both worlds. As you perform your search based on your income and preferences, here are a few cities you can’t afford to neglect.
Orlando:
From its unexpectedly low cost of living to its proximity to several of Florida’s most popular attractions, Orlando has it all. Furthermore, Orlando is known as the World’s Theme Park Capital. Disney World, a popular theme park, is among the reasons most small families consider moving to Orlando, Florida. This is not to forget SeaWorld and the famous Universal Orlando Resort, both huge attractions located in this city.
The public school system is commendable, and public transit is quite accessible across the city. What do you think the most difficult aspect of living in Orlando is? If you are like most people, that would be choosing which of the several local sports teams you will cheer for.
Tampa:
Tampa is one of Florida’s largest cities, with approximately 350,000 people living here. It is a fantastic place to live for both families and singles, owing to its high-performing schools, strong healthcare infrastructure, and a slew of large corporations that have set up shop here. When moving to Tampa, Florida, you’re literally relocating to the Sunshine State’s leading city for job development. This is not to mention the cheap living costs, which are part of why it ranks well in the best places to live on the Florida gulf coast. Moreover, the vistas are unbeatable.
Miami:
The popular South Beach is a great appeal of living in Miami, but it isn’t the only reason to call this dynamic, exciting city home. In the list of the best places to live on the east coast of Florida, Miami ranks high. Miami’s culture is vibrant, colorful, and eclectic, blending influences from across the globe to create an extraordinary variety of cuisines, entertainment options, and cultures that both residents and visitors seem to enjoy.
When you consider moving to Miami, Florida, you’ll be excited to know one thing. The city also has all of the advantages of the rest of the State, such as gorgeous, pristine beaches, warm weather all year, and tax benefits.
Coral Gables:
Located just southwest of downtown Miami, Coral Gables is one of America’s richest communities and is known as a shopping destination with a plethora of multinational firms. If you’re planning on moving to Coral Gables, Florida, be sure to encounter many spectacular restaurants with delicious cuisines from around the globe.
The Coral Gables region is a fantastic place to call home because of the beautiful weather and plenty of natural attractions. It could be your ideal home if you wish to raise your family in a beautiful, quiet, and safe area. It includes all of the companies and facilities that a city would have, yet the peaceful and serene atmosphere is excellent for developing children. The simple 20-minute drive to downtown Miami should satisfy those who wish to make the most of their time in the city.
Naples:
Naples is famed for its high-end shopping and fine eating, but it’s also a budget-friendly family vacation. Naples boasts a refined lifestyle as well as a rich culture, making it a one-of-a-kind destination. The city, which is only two hours from Miami or Tampa, provides something distinct from other Florida attractions. Another huge reason this attractive southwest Florida city ranks high on the list is its high-end shopping and lavish eating.
Moving to Naples, Florida is ideal for retirees and seasonal residents due to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and the Everglades. Furthermore, while the city is known for its affluent lifestyle and culture, Naples is also a budget-friendly location.
In Naples, Florida, there are a plethora of activities to do. This is a wonderful location for any beach lover, whether you desire views of the ocean or downtown shopping! Fresh-caught seafood may be savored with an amazing sunset view from The Turtle Club Restaurant’s wine and dine menu.
Naples, Florida inhabitants have a diverse golf course variety, a low crime rate, and top-rated schools, to name a few advantages. There are other benefits, such as year-round sunlight and mild weather, in addition to these three qualities, which many people may regard as necessary for living in any city.
Conclusion
Relocating to Florida can be an exciting endeavor for anyone despite their age or social status. From top-class beaches to amazing nightlife, adventures, nature, great shopping opportunities, and an amazing culture, Florida is quite a welcoming state. It is also very much affordable depending on where you choose to stay among the many cities and towns that promise both urban and suburban lifestyles. Use this piece as your guide to decide whether moving to Florida is a great idea for you.
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