Money Research Collective’s editorial team solely created this content. Opinions are their own, but compensation and in-depth research determine where and how companies may appear. Many featured companies advertise with us. How we make money.
12 Things to Know Before Moving to Florida
By Jamela Adam MONEY RESEARCH COLLECTIVE
Florida — the Sunshine State — is known for its warm weather, sandy beaches, world-class amusement parks, and orange orchards. With so much to offer, Florida’s tourism industry brings in nearly $100 billion annually and supports over 1.6 million jobs. However, living in the state of Florida isn’t always rainbows and sunshine. The state is especially susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms, and most parts of Florida are scorching hot during the summer months.
So before you pack your bags and head south, be sure to weigh the pros and cons of living there. Here are 12 things to keep in mind before making the big move:
1. The best time to move to Florida
If you’re thinking of moving to Florida, timing is everything. Summer and spring are the most popular times to move since kids are out of school, and it’s easier to coordinate a relocation. But if you’re looking for a bargain, avoid the peak season and move during winter and fall instead. These are typically the slowest months for moving companies, so you might have a better chance of snagging a great deal.
Keep in mind, though, that the Florida hurricane season runs from early June to late November. So besides coordinating your relocation based on the moving season, don’t forget to keep a close eye on the weather forecasts.
2. Florida is one of the most visited states in the U.S.
The year-round sunshine, mild winters, and direct access to some of the best beaches in the country make Florida the perfect vacation destination. Every spring and summer break, millions of tourists descend on Florida’s beaches for weeks of sun and fun. In 2021 alone, Florida welcomed more than 120 million visitors worldwide, making it the second most visited state in the nation.
If you plan on moving to touristy cities in Florida like Miami, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, and St. Augustine, be prepared for heavy traffic and long wait times at popular attractions during the peak tourist season.
3. Cost of living in Florida
The Bureau of Economic Analysis found that the average Florida resident spends $43,615 per year (around $3,600 monthly) on living expenses. Here’s a breakdown of what their spending looks like:
- Housing costs and utilities: $9,255
- Health care: $6,675
- Food and beverage: $3,693
- Gas and energy goods: $580
- Other personal expenditures: $23,412
According to recent MERIC data, the cost of living in Florida is the 32nd lowest in the country.
4. Florida has no state income tax
Florida is the perfect place to settle down and retire. The warm climate and beautiful beaches are undoubtedly appealing, but for some retirees, the main attraction is the state’s tax laws. Florida is one of the few states in the U.S. that does not charge income tax. In other words, the money you earn from Individual Retirement Accounts, 401ks, Social Security, and pensions are 100% exempt from taxation. Businesses and entrepreneurs are also flocking to Florida because of how tax-friendly it is.
5. The best theme parks are in Florida
When it comes to theme parks, Orlando is the undisputed king. Home to world-renowned parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Legoland, and SeaWorld, the city attracts millions of visitors each year.
If you’re a theme park enthusiast, relocating to Orlando — the theme park capital of the world — can save you thousands of dollars in plane tickets since you’re already close to all the action. Plus, with so many theme parks in close proximity, you’ll never run out of things to see and do.
6. Florida has very high humidity levels
Florida is extremely humid during the summer because of its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic ocean. As air moves across these warm bodies of water, it picks up water vapor and, as a result, increases the relative humidity. According to the state’s climate center, Florida is the most humid place in the nation, with average dew points reaching 75 in the summer. Note that dew points higher than 65 can make most people feel sticky and uncomfortable.
However, having high humidity levels isn’t all bad. Florida’s native plants like Yellow Jessamine, Eastern Red Columbine, and Powderpuff Mimosa thrive in this humid subtropical climate. Plus, because of the humidity in Florida, these native plants don’t need additional irrigation to grow.
7. Florida is a diverse state
Florida’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths and defining features. On average, one in five Floridians was born in another country — primarily Cuba, Haiti, Colombia, Mexico, and Jamaica. With a unique blend of these cultures, the state has become well-known for its vibrant food, music, and art scene.
Miami, in particular, is often hailed as one of the greatest melting-pot cities in the country. In this diverse city, you can find authentic Cuban sandwiches, Spanish paella, Jamaican jerk chicken, and Caribbean conch fritters all on one street corner!
8. The threat of hurricanes is very real in Florida
The hurricane season in Florida lasts from June 1st to November 30th. These tropical cyclones that form over the Atlantic ocean are incredibly destructive and can cause serious damage to both North Florida and South Florida. Since 1850, the entire Florida coastline has been struck by at least one hurricane each year.
So if you’re considering buying a home in Florida, don’t forget to purchase hurricane insurance. This type of insurance can help cover the cost of repairs if a hurricane damages your property. Also, remember to stock up on emergency supplies such as flashlights, water, first aid kits, and battery-powered radios. These items can come in handy when you need to evacuate or if the power goes out.
9. The sunshine state
Florida is well-known as the Sunshine State. It enjoys sunshine nearly all year round because it’s located in the subtropical climate zone and lies closer to the equator than any state except Hawai’i. With an average of over 230 days of sunshine annually, it’s no wonder that so many tourists flock to Florida for vacation.
Though sun exposure has plenty of health benefits, such as serotonin and Vitamin D production, overexposure can lead to skin cancer and UV-related damage to the eyes. So if you’re relocating to Florida, don’t forget to bring your sunglasses and stock up on high-SPF sunscreen.
10. Florida is a golf state
Boasting more than 1,300 private and public golf courses and hosting nearly 48 million rounds annually, Florida is a golfer’s paradise. Besides having more golf courses than any other state in the country, Florida is also where PGA (Professional Golf Association) and LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association) are headquartered.
The Sunshine State’s golf industry brings in more than $11 billion each year, making it one of the most significant contributors to the state’s economy. Plus, the mild Floridian weather allows golfers to tee-off year-round! So whether you’re a seasoned pro or an amateur player, there’s no better place to enjoy a round of golf than Florida.
11. Alligators in Florida
Florida is a haven for all sorts of wildlife, but perhaps its most iconic residents are the alligators. With a population of 1.25 million, these massive reptiles can be found in many of Florida’s freshwater wetlands, including the Everglades and Clearwater.
Gators are well-adapted to their wetland habitats and play an indispensable role in the Floridian ecosystem. Besides being a top predator, gators are keystone species that help control the population of smaller animals and keep the wetlands healthy. They’re also a popular tourist attraction, bringing visitors worldwide to see them in their natural habitat.
So, keep your eyes peeled for these fascinating creatures next time you’re boating through the freshwater rivers in Florida!
12. Florida is great for outdoor adventures
Besides its stunning vacation spots like Miami Beach, Key West, and Tampa Bay, Florida is also home to several national parks and wildlife preserves — making it an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. You can do a self-guided animal safari tour at the Orlando Wetlands Park, catch a wave at Cocoa Beach, swim at Peacock Springs, or bike on the 26-mile Spring to Spring Trail.
If you’re an outdoorsy person, relocating to the Sunshine State gives you endless options to enjoy mother nature. Whether you’re looking for a kayaking adventure through the mangroves or an adrenaline-pumping hike up a steep trail, you’ll find it all in Florida.
Moving to Florida FAQs
How to choose a mover in Florida
Here are a few tips on how to choose a mover in Florida:
First, take some time to read online reviews on sites like the Better Business Bureau and Trustpilot. Doing so gives you a better sense of each company's reputation. Second, verify that the mover is legitimate by looking them up in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's registered mover database. Finally, compare rates and services across different movers to narrow down your options and find the one that best meets your needs.
How to prepare for a move to Florida
The Sunshine State has a lot to offer, from stunning white sand beaches to bustling nightlife. Here are a few things you should do to prepare for a move to Florida:
- Research your new neighborhood: Florida is home to a diverse array of neighborhoods, from the artsy Wynwood district in Miami to the laidback retirement community of Venice in Sarasota County. Explore online or speak to friends and family who live in Florida to find the perfect place for you.
- Get your documents in order: All new residents must obtain a Florida driver's license within 30 days of moving to drive on Florida roads. So make sure you have all the necessary paperwork before you go. Don't forget to also title and register your vehicle once you're there.
- Create a moving checklist: Moving to a new state is a big undertaking. Start by creating a checklist of everything you need to do before the moving day. Here's an example of what your list can look like:
- Change the address on file with banks, health insurance companies, and the IRS
- Declutter the closet and donate heavy winter jackets
- Schedule utility disconnection
- Find the best storage companies in Florida
- Buy packing and moving supplies
- Research and hire moving companies or a moving truck
- Ask for time off from work
Who regulates moving companies in Florida?
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) regulates moving companies in Florida. They require intrastate movers in Florida to register with them every two years. If a mover fails to register with the FDACS, they're subject to cease-to-desist orders and up to $5,000 in fines.
Contact the FDACS at 1-800-HELP-FLA (1-800-435-7352) to check if a mover is registered with the agency.
What is the average cost of moving companies in Florida?
The cost of hiring a moving company in Florida depends on how much stuff you have and how far you're moving. If you have a one-bedroom apartment, expect to shell out $500 to $1,500 for a local move and $1,500 to $3,000 for a long-distance relocation. Remember that these are ballpark figures. The actual costs can change with the distance and size of your move. If you're on a tight budget, we recommend that you take the time to find the best long-distance moving companies that can provide the most value for your money.
Summary of our guide to moving to Florida
Moving to a new state can be challenging, but you can make the transition much less stressful with some planning and research. Give yourself plenty of time to prepare for the move. Start packing well in advance and make sure you have everything you need lined up. Finally, don’t forget to find the best moving companies in Florida to help you settle into your new home in the Sunshine State!
