Article Overview: A List of the Pros & Cons of Living in Florida (From a Local’s Perspective)
Are you considering moving to Florida? You’re in the right place. With a population reaching almost 22 million people, it’s safe to say that Florida is a great place to live (it feels like paradise!).
My name is Tony M. and I moved to Florida in 2013 because I was looking for change. I intended to stay in the Sunshine State for 3-5 years yet recently found myself celebrating a decade here.
I thought it’d be helpful to draft up a quick list of the pros and cons of living in Florida for anyone considering a similar move.
The Pros & Cons of Living in Florida
Table of Contents: Living in Florida
Table of Contents: Living in Florida
- The Benefits of Living in Florida
- #1. Reduced Tax Burden
- #2. Mild Winters
- #3. Florida is a Coveted Vacation Destination
- #4. Florida is Diverse
- #5. Affordable Housing
- #6. Strong Job Market
- #7. Daily Access to the Beach
- #8. Great Sports Culture
- #9. There’s Always Something Going On
- #10. Water-Centered Outdoor Recreation
- #11. Stunning Natural Wonders
- #12. Growing Produce is a Breeze
- Disadvantages of Moving to Florida
- Retiring in Florida (FAQ)
- Interesting Tidbits About Florida
- Things to Know About Living in Florida (Post Summary)
- Compare the Pros vs the Cons of Living in Florida
- Map of Florida
Note: As long time readers of this website will know, the fun lives in the comments. We pride ourselves on creating honest lists with no ulterior motive in mind (no fluff, no pitches, no BS). Don’t forget to take a look below to see what other locals are saying too! We update this post regularly based on feedback received to keep things as helpful as possible. Cheers!
The Benefits of Living in Florida
#1. Reduced Tax Burden
When living in Florida you can forget about the paying any state income tax because Florida doesn’t have one. For instance, if you’re earning $50,000 a year, living in a state with an average income tax rate of 5%, you’d save about $2,500 annually just by living in Florida.
This is a perk that cannot be overstated, especially for those moving to Florida from states with an even higher income tax like Oregon or California where it goes up to 10%, depending on income.
This saving can make a big difference in your budget, allowing more room for leisure or savings. It’s one of the reasons why Florida is not just a great place to live but also a smart financial choice for so many people looking to get out of debt and/or build up their savings.
#2. Mild Winters
While much of the country braces for blistering winters, the folks living in Florida find daily life mostly unchanged. That’s because mild winters are one of the biggest perks of living in Florida. The winter temperatures range from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the region.
This lovely weather means you can enjoy outdoor activities like golfing, beach walks, or gardening all year round. This doesn’t even cover the biggest benefit of all: sunshine is a mood booster (those living in gray climates know what I mean).
#3. Florida is a Coveted Vacation Destination
Florida’s 1,350 miles of coastline boast some of the most stunning beaches in the U.S., attracting an average of 110 million visitors per year, making Florida the second most-visited state in America. Plus, it’s home to world-famous attractions like Walt Disney World and Everglades National Park, which alone attract over 20 million and 1 million visitors respectively each year.
Add in the diverse cultural experiences, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife, and it’s no wonder why Florida is a magnet for tourists seeking a mix of relaxation, fun, and adventure. The best part? Those living in Florida have access to the perks of a vacation destination on a daily basis. The sun shines for both tourists and locals, Disney World is open to all and the beaches are glorious whether you’re on a week-long vacation or celebrating your first decade of living in Florida.
#4. Florida is Diverse
Florida is one of the most diverse states in America. This is largely in part to the influx of residents from the neighboring countries. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the state’s population is approximately 60% white, 22% Hispanic or Latino, 16% African American, and 2% Asian.
Taking it a step further, more than 20% of the population was born outside the U.S., which enriches the state with interesting cultural experiences that span the gamut. From the variety of food and music to top-notch festivals and an incredible art scenes, daily life in Florida is more interesting than less diverse states.
From the vibrant Hispanic influence to Caribbean flavors and beyond, the diversity in Florida fosters a dynamic and inclusive environment. You know what they say, variety is the spice of life.
#5. Affordable Housing
The median home cost in Florida is $360,000, which puts it way below the national average of $428,700. So, if you’re moving to Florida with the hopes of purchasing a home, you’ll be happy to learn that your investment is worth while.
2024 Update: It’s important to call out that Florida’s housing prices have seen a sharp increase in the past year. Home prices rose a staggering 35% in the past 2 years (highest in the country).
Worse still, it doesn’t look like these trends are slowing anytime soon. However, those moving to Florida from states with higher home prices (like large metro areas) will still find homes affordable.
#6. Strong Job Market
Over the past few years, the state’s unemployment rate has consistently been lower than the national average, hovering around 2.8%, showcasing a strong and stable economy. Key industries like tourism, healthcare, and technology are rapidly growing, contributing to a job growth rate that outpaces many other states.
For example, tech jobs in Florida have been growing at a rate of 2.9% annually, creating a hub for innovation and new opportunities. The vibrant job market means more options and better prospects for both new job seekers and those looking to advance in their careers. So, whether you’re just starting out or eyeing your next big move, Florida’s thriving job scene is definitely one of the biggest perks of living in Florida.
#7. Daily Access to the Beach
Florida’s impressive coastline (the largest in the continental US) is a big draw for folks moving to Florida. Florida offers a diverse range of beach experiences. Whether you’re into serene sunbathing, surfing, or building sandcastles, there’s a spot for you. In fact, Florida beaches consistently rank as some of the best in the country.
On average, Floridians are within a 30-minute drive to the nearest beach, making it easy to incorporate a beach visit into your regular routine. This proximity to the ocean not only means unlimited leisure opportunities but also contributes to a relaxed, health-conscious lifestyle. So, if you’ve dreamed of living by the sea then daily life in Florida is hard to beat.
#8. Great Sports Culture
Florida’s sports culture is a huge perk of living in the Sunshine State. Here’s a quick roundup of the sports teams you should get acquainted with before moving to Florida.
- 3 NFL (Football) Teams: Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers & Jacksonville Jaguars.
- 2 NBA (Basketball) Teams: Miami Heat & the Orlando Magic.
- 2 MLB (Baseball) Teams: Miami Marlins & Tampa Bay Rays.
- Hockey: Surprisingly, Florida’s also big on ice hockey with the Tampa Bay Lightning and Florida Panthers.
Sports culture is huge here, whether you’re into college football or prefer games on a professional level, there’s never a shortage of teams to root for. If you’re not a sports fan, you’ll be missing out on a ton of social events. Locals love getting together to watch big games over brews and snacks. Make an effort to get into sports and you’ll find it easier to get into new social circles (well, that’s been the case for me, at least).
#9. There’s Always Something Going On
Since moving to Florida in 2013, it feels like there’s seldom a dull moment, largely thanks to a calendar packed with events, festivals, and entertainment. The state hosts over 1,000 festivals annually, ranging from the world-famous Miami Carnival to the Key West Fantasy Fest, offering something for everyone.
Florida’s diverse population contributes to a rich array of cultural events, including music festivals, art shows, and culinary fairs. On any given weekend, you can find events like the Florida Strawberry Festival, drawing over 500,000 visitors, or the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, a must-visit for foodies.
Plus, with numerous concert venues and theaters, there’s always a concert, play, or show to catch. Living in Florida means you’re always just a step away from exciting experiences, which is why Florida is a great place to raise a family.
#10. Water-Centered Outdoor Recreation
Home to more than 7,700 lakes, 11,000 miles of rivers, and 1,350 miles of coastline, water-based activities are a huge part of daily life in Florida.
About 75% of Floridians participate in water-related recreation annually. Whether it’s fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, kayaking through the Everglades, snorkeling in the crystal-clear springs, or simply enjoying a beach day, there’s an abundance of options.
Florida is also renowned for its world-class scuba diving and boating opportunities. In fact, Florida’s reef spans 350 miles and is the only living coral barrier in the country and the third-largest in the world.
#11. Stunning Natural Wonders
Florida is a treasure trove of scenic natural wonders, offering breathtaking landscapes and unique ecosystems. The state is home to Everglades National Park, a World Heritage Site, spanning over 1.5 million acres – it’s the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S.
Florida also boasts over 700 natural springs, including the famous Crystal River, where nearly 400,000 visitors yearly swim with manatees. With over 11,000 miles of rivers, streams, and waterways, Florida offers endless opportunities for kayaking and canoeing amidst stunning backdrops.
Living in Florida means being surrounded by some of nature’s most exquisite wonders, from lush wetlands to pristine beaches, making every day an opportunity for a new and beautiful adventure.
#12. Growing Produce is a Breeze
One of my favorite parts of living in Florida is being able to actually grow fruit right in my own backyard. Because of the weather conditions (and lack of freezing temperatures), growing fruits and vegetables is a breeze. This, in turn, makes eating seasonal and fresh produce easier than more other places in the country.
Heck, you can even grow oranges and grapefruit in your yard. How cool is that?
Disadvantages of Moving to Florida
#1. The High Cost of Living in Florida
While Florida offers many perks, it’s important to note that the cost of living can be on the higher side (especially in certain areas of the state). For instance, in popular cities like Miami and Orlando, the cost of living is about 5-10% higher than the national average. Additionally, while the absence of state income tax is a bonus, this can sometimes be offset by higher sales and property taxes.
Everyday expenses like groceries and utilities also tend to be slightly above average in many parts of the state. So, while the state offers a lot in terms of lifestyle and weather, it’s wise to consider the high cost of living in Florida before making any moves.
#2. Quality Healthcare is Lacking
Navigating healthcare in Florida can be a bit challenging, especially when it comes to finding quality services. Statistically, Florida doesn’t rank in the top tier of states with the best healthcare, partly due to limited access in certain areas. For example, in rural regions, there’s roughly one primary care doctor for every 3,500 residents, which is higher than the national average.
Additionally, Florida has one of the highest rates of uninsured residents at about 13%, impacting access to healthcare services. These factors can make it tricky for some residents, particularly in less urbanized areas, to receive timely and high-quality medical care. It’s an important consideration for those living in or moving to Florida, especially for families and the elderly.
While the state boasts many excellent healthcare facilities, particularly in major cities, the overall picture of healthcare access and quality is mixed and worth keeping in mind.
#3. Crime Rates are High
Although this is an average resulting from a combination of small towns and big urban areas, the overall crime rate in Florida is higher the national average.
#4. The State is Prone to Natural Disasters
Moving to Florida might mean facing natural disasters such as hurricanes, flooding, tornadoes, drought, wildfires, and more. Indeed, every year the state has to deal with weather inclemency that can go from a mild storm all the way to a hurricane.
If you’ve ever been involved in such an event, you’ll know that it can be quite damaging to property. Thus, insurance is a must in Florida and fees tend to be higher than in most other places.
#5. You’ll Need a Car While Living in Florida
Having a car is a must while living in Florida because things are spread far apart and the public transportation leaves much to be desired. Plus, the traffic is some of the worst in the country.
Plus, as you can imagine, a state receiving over 100 million tourists every year is bound to be accident prone. Sadly, Florida has the third highest traffic fatality rate in the country.
Furthermore, there’s a higher percentage of residents in their 80s and 90s who live in Florida and choose to get a driver’s licenses even though they have reduced reflexes. If you decide to go walking or cycling while living in Florida, beware of the grizzly statistic.
#6. Summer Heat & Humidity
As much as people rely on thick clothing, warm accessories, and heating devices in most US states, Florida demands air conditioning everywhere and loose fitting fabrics.
If you’re not used to hot weather then living in Florida can be intense, especially in the summer. The weather will make you sweat even if you are relaxing in the shade.
Likewise, you need your car’s and house’s air condition system to be fully functional, a non-negotiable statement during the summer season.
Finally, humidity can turn out to be oppressive when mixed with the high temperature. Still, it is nothing a good dive into the ocean after a hectic day can’t solve.
#7. The Landscape is (Completely) Flat
The highest elevation in Florida is Britton Hill and at only 345 feet, it tells you everything you need to know about the type of landscape you can expect while living in Florida.
If you love mountains, hiking, and climbing then you will have a very hard time getting your fill after moving to Florida.
That being said, the 1,200 miles of astonishing beaches and the 2,800 hours of sunlight a year might make you want to grab the board and hit the ocean rather than getting into your hiking gear anyways.
#8. Moving to Florida? Brace for Bugs
It won’t take long after moving to Florida to realize that it’s considered the buggiest states in the country for a reason.
But the fun doesn’t stop with bugs. The list includes snakes, rats, and lizards too. Moreover, if you’ve been to Florida as a tourist and been in tourist locations only, you enjoyed the weather in places sprayed with pesticide to make your stay better.
Don’t expect the same luxury as a local though!
When living in Florida year round, you get to experience the true mosquito population in the southern part of the nation. And no, mosquitos are not the official state bird of Florida, no matter how many you see daily.
Retiring in Florida (FAQ)
FAQ – Life in Florida
Florida is an especially good place to live for folks who love sunshine, retirees, and people looking to pay less in income taxes. Natural disasters complicate the question a bit with millions (often billions of dollars in damage done each year) but overall Florida is a good place to live.
Yes, Florida is a great place to retire. In fact, Florida is the most popular place to retire in the US and for good reason. Retiring in Florida you’ll find there’s no state income tax, the weather is constantly warm (although the heat & humidity can be a bit oppressive), and the sun is almost always shining.
No, as of 2023, marijuana is not legal for recreational use in Florida. However, the state has a medical marijuana program that allows qualified patients to access marijuana for medicinal purposes. In order to participate in the program, patients must have a qualifying condition and a recommendation from a doctor. Qualifying conditions include cancer, epilepsy, and PTSD, among others. Medical marijuana is available in various forms, including oils, edibles, and vaporizers.
There are a bunch of great cities in Florida, and the best one for you depends on your personal preferences and needs. Some of the best include:
Miami: Known for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife, Miami is a popular destination for tourists and residents alike.
Tampa: Located on the west coast of Florida, Tampa is known for its beautiful beaches, diverse population, and thriving arts scene.
Orlando: Home to world-famous theme parks and attractions, Orlando is a top destination for families and tourists.
Gainesville: Located in north-central Florida, Gainesville is home to the University of Florida and has a thriving arts and music scene.
Tallahassee: As the capital of Florida, Tallahassee is home to many state government agencies and institutions of higher learning. It is also known for its beautiful parks and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Interesting Tidbits About Florida
What are people that live in Florida called?
People who live in Florida are called Floridians. The term Floridian is the preferred demonym, according to the Florida Department of State.
What is Florida’s Nickname?
Florida is known by several nicknames, including the Sunshine State, the Orange State, and the Alligator State.
What’s the population of Florida?
The population of Florida is estimated to be around 21.78 million people. Florida is the third most populous state in the United States, after California and Texas.
How is the weather in Florida?
Living in Florida, the weather can vary widely depending on the region of the state. Generally speaking, Florida has a warm and humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters.
The average summer temperature in Florida is around 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius), while the average winter temperature is around 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
What’s the cost of living in Florida?
Overall the cost of living in Florida is slightly higher than the national average by a little over 3%. However, this varies greatly depending on where you live in the state.
For example, the cost of living in coastal cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Sarasota, and Tampa is much higher than other cities in central Florida such as Ocala and Gainesville.
Is Florida a tax-friendly state?
Florida is a very tax-friendly state. Living in Florida there is no state income tax, which means that residents of Florida do not have to pay state taxes on their personal income.
Florida also has relatively low property taxes, with the average effective property tax rate in the state being 1.02%. In addition, the state has a relatively low sales tax rate of 6%.
Things to Know About Living in Florida (Post Summary)
Moving to The Sunshine State might mean starting the next chapter in your life; a chapter full of love, outdoor activities, beach, water, and endless days of fun.
Indeed, Florida has something to offer every member of the family; from Disney World to Miami Heat matches.
- Reduced taxes
- Mild winters
- Florida is a coveted vacation destination
- Affordable housing
- Florida is diverse
- Great job market
- Access to the beach
- Sports culture
- Always something to do
- Water recreation
- Stunning flora and fauna
- You can grow produce at home
- High cost of living
- The healthcare rating
- Overall crime rate
- Florida is prone to natural distastes
- You’ll need a car while living in Florida
- The heat and humidity
- The landscape is completely flat
- Bugs galore
I hope you found these pros and cons of moving to Florida helpful. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or comments, happy to help!
Cheers!
Tony (Tampa, Florida)
Compare the Pros vs the Cons of Living in Florida
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Reduced taxes | High cost of living |
| Mild winters | The healthcare rating |
| Florida is a coveted vacation destination | Overall crime rate |
| Affordable housing | Florida is prone to natural disasters |
| Florida is diverse | You’ll need a car while living in Florida |
| Great job market | The heat and humidity |
| Access to the beach | The landscape is completely flat |
| Sports culture | Bugs galore |
| Always something to do | |
| Water recreation | |
| Stunning flora and fauna | |
| You can grow produce at home |
Map of Florida
More Helpful Florida Perspectives
- Best Places to Live Florida: 15 Best Places to Live in Florida
- Cheapest Places to Live Florida: 15 Cheapest Places to Live in Florida
- Living in Florida: 20 Honest Pros and Cons of Living in Florida
- Living in Miami: 20 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Miami (Let’s Talk)
- Living in Jacksonville: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Jacksonville
- Living in Orlando: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Orlando, Florida (Local’s Guide)
Life in Other Parts of the South
- Living in Georgia: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Georgia
- Living in Mississippi: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Mississippi
- Living in Arkansas: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Arkansas
- Living in Tennessee: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Tennessee
- Living in Texas: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Texas
- Living in Alabama: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Alabama
Bugs abound, yes. Coming from Colorado 6 years ago we dealt with miller moths, field and wolf spiders. Even the occasional tarantula in the southern part of that state. But, you forgot to mention the noseeums (which apparently like me very much, leaving my skin itching and welted for hours); the lovebugs, which will turn the front of your car into a black, gooey mess in Spring and Fall… and last but definitely not least, palmetto bugs (giant flying roaches). You better believe we spray regularly.
This is a beautiful place (we are in SWFL) and the people are very friendly and welcoming here. Probably looking to move back closer to our kids in CO though, so maybe another year or two then back to drier air.
Yes, the beaches are lovely. But we sit in traffic to get there. Then there is no parking. Lots are full. Eating and drinking at beach is nearly impossible. I have lived here nearly 30 years and crowding everywhere is a problem.
I’ve been here for 8 years and I’m absolutely sick of it. I can’t stand it here. The humidity is absolutely ridiculous in the summer which is most of the year. Forget wearing your hair down or makeup. Forget wearing cute clothes too. The water sucks, and the water bill is so high, $150 a month for a family of 4. The water is hard and tastes like crap. We have to constantly buy salt for the water softener otherwise you can’t wash off all the soap and conditioner from your hair and body. There are people everywhere, it’s so overcrowded. It’s loud outside with all the bugs screaming. Everything is expensive. Outrageous homeowners insurance. Outrageous prices on groceries and forget about going to to restaurants. Long lines everywhere. You have two seasons here, extremely hot and muggy and wet, or cooler and dry. Sand EVERYWHERE… some beaches the sand doesn’t wash off easily. Can’t even swim in the east coast unless it’s a green flag (which means calm) otherwise the waves will SMASH you into the sand and cut up your legs. You are basically stuck in the AC most of the year and it’s groundhogs day.
I’ve lived in Florida since 1976. I am a Southerner with a long family lineage in the South. Florida was a nice place until around 2005 or so. Miami, Orlando, and the Tampa area has been overpopulated for years prior. Today it seems almost every city in Florida is overcrowded. The city of St Augustine is all but destroyed with excessive growth. A home selling for. $120,000 ten years ago is now $300,000. The Southern culture is overrun with northern transplants and over development. It is no longer worth living here. I can’t wait to leave Florida. Don’t buy that lie about how great Florida is. All I see now is a bunch of miserable dreamers here.
Would you prefer Texas over Florida?
I might consider it but it would be a hard sell knowing that every few years you could end-up being completely wiped out of everything you own & having to start over again from scratch! That, and the alligators crawling up on your front porch to ring the door bell holds me back.
Great! You move to Florida and let the bugs eat you alive with the humidity running down your cheeks as you over-pay for your gas, groc’s, utilities, etc., and I’ll move to Lincoln, Nebraska.
bugs,hot weather,humidity just go to Louisiana or South Alabama everything is cheaper and you can wade in the gulf to cool off (watch out for jellyfish)Michigan my Michigan!(more room for us )
You will not find a rental under 1500. Most are over 2000 a month. My rent just increased this year to 2300 from 1700.
There are fees for everything as well.
The cost of living is much higher. In my experience about %25 higher.
A simple example: a gallon of water in Oregon could be purchased for 1.00. The same week in Florida it was an advertised special at 1.29.
Eggs 2.99 a doz in Oregon were 3.89.
It can be nice moving away from winter, but expect to lower your standard of living or earn some extra cash.
Florida has become overcrowded and trying to drive anywhere is taking your life in your hands along with the need to plan lots of extra time for accidents. Also, add snakes to the bugs section. I’v e lived in 3 homes in 9 years here and always had snakes to deal with on the grounds.
Yes! Lots of people forget about the snakes! Not to mention, the iguanas that tend to damage property.
I am strong in my consideration to move to Florida. I would be coming from Lincoln, Nebraska. My main worry are the basic costs of living-rent, utilities, insurance, fees, food, internet, fuel. The extra’s are not my main concern, since I already live a frugal lifestyle.
In Lincoln, I am used to paying the 3rd lowest electric rate in America, little to no traffic, and pretty low unchanging rent. Not used to paying fees for extra things associated with renting. I am single, no pets. So hope to find a decent apartment starting no more than $750-900 per month.
I guess my question is, what is the basic cost of living for a single man, leaving out entertainment and excursions? Looking forward to answers. Also looking forward to having near year round access to fresh produce!
Depends where you move to Florida in Miami you not going to find these rates of rent you talking about , maybe in a small town in mid Florida