If you’re planning to move to Florida, you’re not alone. With remote work becoming more common and allowing people to choose where they want to live, many people are choosing to call the Sunshine State home. Although it’s known for being a popular place to retire, it’s become an attractive place for young adults and families to settle down. There are plenty of things that make Florida a great place to live, from the sunny weather to trendy restaurants and beaches. But before moving to the state, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Here are six things to know before moving to Florida.
1. High Cost of Living In Some Areas
Living in the Sunshine State comes at a cost. Some parts of Florida, like Miami, are among the most expensive places to live in the country. Rent and housing prices are high in desirable areas. Also, Florida car insurance tends to be among the most expensive in the nation. Since some parts of the state attract many tourists, restaurants and activities are often pricey as well.
Of course, if you want to move to Florida on a budget, there are many cities that are cheaper to live in. They may not be the most exciting places to be in the state, but you’ll still get to enjoy being a Florida resident without breaking the bank.
2. No State Income Tax
One benefit to living in Florida is that taxes are relatively low and there’s no state income tax. Property taxes are also lower than the national average. Lower taxes means you save more and can spend your money enjoying the many things to do in this beautiful state. Not having to pay income tax is especially beneficial for people who earn a lot since it allows them to keep more of their money.
3. Weather
Most people think of Florida as a sunny paradise. It’s the warmest state with a tropical climate. If you want to get away from cold, snowy winters, Florida is the place to be. You can enjoy the sunshine and beach days all year long.
For some though, the heat is too much. Florida experiences high humidity which, combined with the extreme heat, can be unbearable for many people. It can also cause problems for people with respiratory diseases since humidity can make it difficult to breathe.
Florida also experiences its fair share of extreme weather and natural disasters. Thunderstorms and flooding are common. Also, because of its location, Florida is vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms. Hurricane season lasts from June to November. It’s important to prepare ahead for potential disasters since you never know when one will come your way.
4. Beautiful Beaches
Florida’s beaches are its main attraction for many. There are so many beaches to visit and enjoy, you’ll quickly become a regular beach-goer. The southern part of the state is home to some of the best beaches. With a variety of beaches, you’ll be able to enjoy many beach activities, like swimming, snorkeling, surfing, and sunbathing. You can also try a cruise if you want to fish or see dolphins. The beauty of Florida’s white sandy beaches is unmatched and if you choose to live there, you’ll get to enjoy it all the time.
5. Theme Parks
Some of the country’s most awesome theme parks are located in Florida. From Disney World to Universal Studios and many more, there’s something for everyone. Whether you have young kids who love seeing live shows and enjoying dark rides or you’re a roller coaster enthusiast, you can enjoy the fun parks that Florida has to offer. As a resident, you can get special discounts at many of the most popular theme parks as well.
6. Interesting Wildlife
Alligators are probably the first animal you think of when picturing Florida’s wildlife. It’s not uncommon to see them roaming around, but don’t be too scared. Alligator attacks don’t happen often. The best thing you can do is respect them and their habitats.
Florida is home to more than just alligators though. It also has panthers, bears, manatees, turtles, snakes, lizards, dolphins, sharks, and a variety of fish, among other species. If you’re a nature lover, there are plenty of beautiful places where you can spot wildlife and enjoy Florida’s natural landscapes, like the Everglades.
There’s so much to love about living in Florida. Its sunny weather allows residents to enjoy beach days and amusement parks throughout the year. Low taxes, discounts on resorts and theme parks, and an abundance of outdoor activities make it a great place to live. However, it’s important to keep in mind that Florida experiences extreme weather and some natural disasters. Some cities are very touristy and the cost of living can be high. But if you want to make the Sunshine State your home, you’ll find it’s a generally pleasant place to live. Make sure to do your research and prepare for all the pros and cons of living in Florida.