Moving from New York to Florida? Weather, Taxes, Jobs, and More.
Are you really considering leaving the Empire State and heading to sunny Florida?
This is a big move and one that I know a lot about. In fact, I was born and raised in New York and now live in the sunshine state.
Once Shirley and I moved to Florida, we never looked back.
But, it’s not all sunshine and warm water for everyone, it’s a huge decision.
Let’s talk about the pros and cons of leaving New York for Florida, what you’ll miss, what you’ll love, and everything in between.
Are a lot of people moving from New York to Florida?
Yes, a lot of people are moving from New York to Florida.
In fact, a recent publication by the US Census Bureau showing the latest state to state migration flow highlighted that about 90k New Yorkers move to Florida each year.
Trust us, you aren’t alone. We’ve met tons of native New Yorkers here who are loving life.
And, they aren’t alone in their journey of moving here.
Over 1,218 people move into Florida each day to start a new life.
Do you have any regrets moving to Florida?
Not a single one. New York was great to me, it formed me, and gave me an amazing first chapter to my life.
I never enjoyed shoveling snow or dealing with the winter weather, traffic, crowds, and the constant overcast skies.
I also lived in Chicago and Seattle, and they were much like New York—I couldn’t wait to live in the sunshine 365 days per year.
Can any Florida city fully replace New York?
Not a chance. I mean come on, it’s New York.
Moving to Florida means leaving behind the vibrant streets of Broadway, the exquisite dining experiences found at every turn, families rooted in the same boroughs for centuries, towering skyscrapers stretching into the skyline, the electrifying heartbeat of the Big Apple, the breathtaking Adirondack Mountains during autumn, the invigorating Catskills during summer—the list of unmatched wonders goes on and on.
But here’s the deal, you aren’t moving to Florida to replace New York, you are moving to start a new chapter in your life—one that is wholly and completely different.
10 things I love about my life in Florida
- I love Florida sunsets. There is nothing like them.
- I love the 84 degree water in the summer.
- I love the warm sand all year-round.
- I love the zero income-tax advantages at my age.
- I love the friends I’ve made and friends I continue to make effortlessly.
- I unapollegicaly love Disney and all the amazing amenities it brings to my doorstep.
- I love living 90 minutes from the Gulf Coast and 90 minutes from the Atlantic Coast depending on my mood.
- I love enjoying coffee in the morning on my patio in shorts every day of the year.
- I love that my garage doesn’t have salt, a snow shovel, or gasoline for a snow blower.
- I love that everything isn’t more expensive just because it’s “New York”.
Weather and Climate (Florida vs New York)
This is going to be an easy section.
Florida’s weather is vastly better than New York’s weather.
In a WeatherSpark comparison between New York City and Orlando, you’ll notice that Florida is only 6 degrees warmer on average during the summer, yet it’s nearly 30 degrees warmer in the winter.
That’s a BIG DIFFERENCE in weather. Say goodbye to snow storms and long dreary winters.
Keep in mind, we chose to compare New York with a Florida city (Orlando) that is inland and known to be hotter.
Coastal cities are slightly cooler in the summers and are even more pleasant, making the weather disparity between New York and Florida even greater.
Now, is Florida more humid? Yes.
Is Florida rainier during the summer? You bet, it’s tropical.
Does Florida have days where the heat is intense? Absolutely.
All of that is true, but you have to remember, Florida is a warm-weather paradise every day of the year.
Florida doesn’t really get any snow and winters in Florida aren’t cold in the slightest.
| Weather | New York | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| Average Temperature | Winter: 27-42°F (−3-6°C) | Winter: 55-75°F (13-24°C) |
| Summer: 70-85°F (21-29°C) | Summer: 75-92°F (24-33°C) | |
| Humidity | High in summer (60-70%) | High year-round, especially in summer (75-90%) |
| Rainfall | Moderate (40-50 inches annually) | High (40-60 inches annually, more in the south) |
| Snowfall | Frequent in winter, especially in upstate New York (20-60 inches on average) | Extremely rare, primarily frost in northern areas |
| Storms | -Occasional thunderstorms in summer Nor’easters in winter | -Frequent thunderstorms in summer -Hurricane season from June to November |
| Seasonal Variation | Distinct four seasons | More consistent year-round with mild winters |
| Sunshine | Moderate, with more sunny days in summer | High, with an average of 230-260 sunny days |
Season Differences in Weather
In Florida, the seasons are generally less distinct compared to New York.
In other words, Florida doesn’t really have four seasons: Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall.
People often say that Florida only has two seasons because of its subtropical and tropical climates which primarily lead to two distinct seasons: the wet season and the dry season.
- Wet Season (May to October): This season is characterized by high temperatures, high humidity, and frequent rain showers, often in the afternoon. It’s also the time when Florida experiences its hurricane season, which officially runs from June 1 to November 30.
- Dry Season (November to April): During this season, Florida experiences milder temperatures and lower humidity levels, making it a more comfortable time of year for many residents and visitors. Rainfall is less frequent, and the weather is generally more predictable with many sunny days.
The lack of a traditional fall and winter, with accompanying cold temperatures, snowfall, and foliage changes that many other parts of the US experience, is why the saying that Florida has only two seasons has become quite common.
On the other hand, New York experiences all four distinct seasons:
- Winter (December to February): Cold and snowy, especially in upstate New York, with temperatures often dropping below freezing.
- Spring (March to May): A time of transition with temperatures gradually warming up and plants blooming.
- Summer (June to August): Warm to hot temperatures with high humidity levels, reaching up to 85°F or more.
- Fall (September to November): Cooler temperatures and foliage changing colors, offering picturesque landscapes before shedding their leaves.
So, while Florida mostly toggles between hot and wet to warm and dry conditions, New York transitions through a much broader range of seasonal changes, providing a variety of weather experiences and scenic changes throughout the year.
What You’ll Love about Florida Weather
For a New Yorker used to braving icy winds and navigating snow-covered streets for a good part of the year, Florida’s warm climate offers a refreshing change.
Picture this: your winter gear, including that cumbersome snow shovel, remaining untouched, and forgotten.
In Florida, you can comfortably wear shorts year-round, an easy-going attire that can quickly become a daily uniform.
The convenience of hopping into a convertible without the worry of snow or freezing temperatures cannot be overstated. It’s unbelievable.
Imagine being able to find an empty beach with warm water almost year round? Goodbye to fighting off the crowds at Coney Island.
The warmer climate means more opportunities for outdoor dining, a simple pleasure that isn’t confined to just a few months in the year like in New York.
Besides, the nice weather promotes a more active lifestyle. Forget being cooped up indoors during winter; in Florida, you can go for a run, visit the park, or take a bike ride any day you like.
New Yorkers will appreciate the straightforward, no-nonsense approach to life that the consistent Florida weather brings — less hassle, more enjoyment, and a lot of sunshine.
Florida’s Cost of Living is Lower than New York (Mostly)
New York is known for its high cost of living and Florida… not so much.
However, it is important to be practical and acknowledge that not everything is significantly cheaper in Florida.
Let’s examine the cost of living in several areas and make a comparison between New York and Florida.
Cost of Living Index
- Overall Index
- New York: 126.6
- Florida: 101.9
- Grocery
- New York: 104.7
- Florida: 101.9
- Housing
- New York: 175.5
- Florida: 108.2
- Utilities
- New York: 102.8
- Florida: 100.0
- Transportation
- New York: 107.0
- Florida: 98.8
- Health
- New York: 105.6
- Florida: 96.5
- Miscellaneous
- New York: 110.6
- Florida: 98.8
As you can see above, New York is more expensive than Florida in nearly every category.
In fact, New York is more expensive than 45 other US states, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise.
But, housing is really the only place that New York is THAT much more expensive than Florida, and that figure might be misleading (more on that later).
Yes, you will save on utilities, groceries, gas, healthcare, transportation, and other monthly expenses to a certain degree—but Florida can be surprisingly expensive in certain areas like car insurance, homeowners insurance, HOA fees, and health insurance.
Why is New York so much more expensive than Florida?
- Supply and Demand
- New York: High demand for limited space, particularly in NYC, has driven up the costs of housing significantly.
- Florida: While there is demand in prime locations, the state generally has more space available for development, helping to moderate costs.
- Population Density
- New York: The state, and especially NYC, has a very high population density, increasing competition for resources and thus driving up prices.
- Florida: Although it has densely populated cities, it offers a wider variety of living situations, including more spacious suburban and rural environments which can be more affordable.
- Geography
- New York: The geographic limitations of New York (particularly NYC being surrounded by water) naturally limit expansion and increase costs.
- Florida: Florida has a more expansive land area suitable for housing development which helps in keeping the real estate prices comparatively lower.
- Income Levels
- New York: Higher average incomes, especially in financial sectors located in NYC, can drive up the cost of living as people are willing to pay more for services and amenities.
- Florida: While there are areas with high incomes, the average income is generally lower than in New York, which can help moderate the cost of living.
- Tax Policies
- New York: The state has a high tax burden, including income taxes which can contribute to a higher cost of living.
- Florida: The absence of a state income tax can make it more affordable to live in Florida compared to New York.
- Tourism
- New York: NYC is a global tourist destination, and the high influx of tourists can drive up prices—especially around NYC.
- Florida: Although a popular tourist destination, the impact on the cost of living is more balanced due to a wider variety of tourist destinations spread across the state, and a large availability of spaces.
- Government Policies and Regulations
- New York: Stricter regulations and zoning laws can increase the cost of housing and the cost of doing business in the state.
- Florida: Generally, has more relaxed regulations which can encourage business development and keep costs lower.
Houses Prices are Cheaper in Florida (but not by much)
Here is where things get interesting.
If we single out New York City real estate, then yes, New York is much more expensive than the average city in Florida.
But that would also be true of nearly every other state and city in the country. After all, New York is one of the most expensive cities in the world.
But, if we aggregate the average cost of a home across all cities in the State of New York, and compare them with the average cost of a home across all cities in the State of Florida—the difference is much smaller.
Sorry folk, Florida isn’t that cheap when it comes to real estate.
Let’s use the latest BankRate data and find the details of homeownership in both states.
Average cost of a home in New York: $531k
Average cost of a home in Florida: $409k
While New York City notably skews New York State’s average home cost, a more comprehensive look paints a different picture.
Yes, NYC is a world leader in terms of real estate prices, but stepping outside the Big Apple, one finds tons of suburban areas with much more affordable housing options, bringing down the state’s average home cost significantly.
Meanwhile, Florida’s real estate landscape isn’t just cheap, affordable homes like many have come to think.
“Florida home values have risen by about 80% over the past 5 years and a positive trend is forecasted for the next 5 years.”
— Norada Real Estate Investments
Cities like Miami and Tampa host properties with price tags that rival those in New York’s premium boroughs, significantly driving up the state’s average home cost.
You will find even in smaller towns in Florida like the one we live in—Clermont FL—$500k+ homes are the norm not the exception.
The key takeaway is that dismissing New York’s real estate as universally more expensive can be misleading.
It’s essential to explore the diversity in the real estate landscapes of both states, where you’ll find a range of options suiting various budgets, challenging the oversimplified notion that Florida is the cheaper option for home buyers.
State Taxes
Florida is probably going to save you a pretty penny here, especially if you are a high-income household.
This biggest savings will come from the State income tax area. You will pay 4% to 8.8% on income earned in New York depending on your total income, whereas in Florida you will pay 0%.
If you have significant investments that are tax sheltered, such as pensions, 401(k)s, 403(b)s, and IRAs, the distributions from these accounts are not subject to state or local taxes.
That will be great news for you.
Another category you may feel is sales tax. New York City for example is at 8.875% sales tax whereas a city like Miami is 7%.
If you are a business owner, you will also pay nearly 2% more in corporate taxes in New York versus Florida.
Homeowners who move from New York to Florida can expect to save approximately 0.7% on property tax rates.
| Taxes | New York State | Florida |
|---|---|---|
| State Income Tax | 4.00% to 8.82% (progressive) | None |
| Sales Tax | 4% + local taxes (up to 8.875%) | 6% + local taxes (up to 8.5%) |
| Corporate Tax | 6.5% (varies based on factors) | 4.458% (additional business taxes may apply) |
| Property Tax (average effective rate, 2021) | 1.69% | 0.98% |
Is Florida a good place to retire from New York?
In my extensive experience living in various parts of the U.S., including New York, I’ve discovered that Florida stands as a haven for retirees, and for very good reasons.
First, you have to consider the incredible weather. Living in Orlando, I’ve found that every day is a warm day, with temperatures fluctuating beautifully between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.
Second, the state prides itself on being extremely tax-friendly, especially for retirees. The absence of state income tax ensures that we keep a significant portion of our hard-earned money, enjoying tax-free social security retirement benefits, pension income, and withdrawals from retirement accounts.
To put it in perspective, we save $5,000 annually for every $100,000 we earn, thanks to the lack of state income taxes in Florida. That’s extra money for healthcare or adventures with our grandchildren.
Third, we aren’t alone. Nearly 45% of the population here is over the age of 50, paving the way for numerous enriching connections with people who share similar life experiences and interests.
Fourth, veterans receive outstanding healthcare services and support in Florida, with the state being home to seven VA medical centers. Veterans, thank you for your service and sacrifice.
Fifth, there are so many 55+ communities to choose from. Whether you want beachfront property, cozy lake living, or every bell and whistle around a lazy river resort—Florida has you covered.
Lastly, for nature enthusiasts like us, Florida has thousands of miles of hiking trails, beaches, and parks, and it offers an incredible array of free or low-cost recreational opportunities.
Florida’s Growing Diversity
For New Yorkers contemplating a move to Florida, it is reassuring to know that Florida’s diversity has been on the rise.
Diverse cultural experiences are built into New York and now you can experience it in Florida as well.
According to the 2020 Census data highlighted in a WFLA PLUS article by Sam Sachs, Florida is becoming increasingly diverse, outpacing even the national growth rate in diversity.
In 2020, Florida boasted a diversity rate of 64.1%, outclassing the U.S. average of 61.1%.
You see this growth first-hand; the Hispanic or Latino population has significantly expanded to 26.5% of the population, up from 22.5% in 2010.
In addition, there are notable increases in the Asian community and individuals identifying with two or more races. We are the southeastern tossed salad of culture.
Where should you move in Florida for diversity?
The heartbeat of this diversity is most potent in counties such as Broward, Orange, and Hillsborough, consistently holding their positions as the top three most diverse counties over the decade.
We love experiencing diversity through food.
Florida’s culinary scene is amazing with many different cultures, influenced heavily by the Caribbean, Latin America, and the state’s rich history.
In the heart of Tampa, historical neighborhoods like Ybor City harbor the legacy of Spanish-Cuban dishes served in iconic establishments such as the Columbia restaurant, standing since 1905.
From the north to the south, the state dazzles food enthusiasts with a range from Floribbean cuisine, which marries Florida and Caribbean flavors, offering delicacies like conch fritters, seafood gumbo, and arroz con pollo, to vibrant Latin American flavors crowned by Tampa’s legendary Cuban sandwiches—Not to mention Florida’s 200+ breweries to explore statewide.
| Location | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Tampa Bay | – Ybor City: Historic neighborhood with colorful Cuban diners and vintage shops. – Columbia: Florida’s oldest restaurant offering Spanish-Cuban dishes. |
| Lee County | – Twisted Vine: Setting standards with a sustainable, hyper-local menu. – Fort Myers Oktoberfest Festival: Enjoy German pilsners and smoked sausage |
| Orlando | – Proper & Wild: A hub for plant-based dishes in Winter Park. – Central Florida Soul Food Festival: Witness the food truck frenzy |
| Kissimmee | – World Food Trucks: A permanent food truck market offering diverse cuisines. – Kissimmee Cuban Sandwich Festival: Celebrating the best Cuban sandwiches |
| Fort Lauderdale | – DUNE: An oceanfront restaurant offering fine dining experiences. – South Florida Taco Battle & Craft Beer Fest: A space for taco enthusiasts in April. |
| Miami | – South Beach Wine & Food Festival: A gastronomic event – Time Out Market Miami: South Beach’s latest dining hotspot. |
| Puerto Rico | – Saborea: The biggest food festival showcasing Spanish, Mexican, and Cuban influences. – Nuyorican Café: Famous for legendary rum cocktails and salsa dancing. |
Florida’s Pace of Life is Slower than New York
We will keep this section short and sweet.
Florida has laid back vibes, sand in the toes, and margaritas with the backdrop of Jimmy Buffett and ocean waves.
In New York, the city’s cultural symphony consists of car horns, rooftop yelling, screeching tires, whistling windy weather, and busy commuters spending their days on the subway.
It’s just different. Florida is low-key and laid back. Life is easy.
In Florida, the average one-way commute time was around 27.4 minutes according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau.
In New York, the average commute was notably longer, coming in at around 33.3 minutes.
Where Should I live moving from New York to Florida?
That’s a great question, and one that is very hard to answer.
We have so many clients from the Northeast who surprise us with their wishlist. Sometimes they want an area in Florida with similar amenities to their New York neighborhood and sometimes they want something 180 degrees different.
New York to Florida City Pairings
- New York City, NY – Miami, FL
- Culture & Diversity: Both are melting pots of various cultures, big cities, offering a rich diversity in their populations.
- Art Scene: Each city has a vibrant art scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and events like NYC’s Broadway and Miami’s Art Basel.
- Buffalo, NY – Tampa, FL
- Waterfront Cities: Both cities are located by the water, offering beautiful waterfront experiences.
- Sports: Both have a rich sports culture, with NFL teams and enthusiastic fans.
- Rochester, NY – Orlando, FL
- Family-Friendly: Both cities offer a range of family-friendly activities and attractions, including theme parks in Orlando and museums in Rochester.
- Education: They both have reputable educational institutions and focus on educational development.
- Syracuse, NY – Jacksonville, FL
- River Cities: Syracuse is close to the Finger Lakes, and Jacksonville has the St. Johns River, providing picturesque waterside views and recreational opportunities.
- Cultural Festivals: Both cities host a range of cultural festivals throughout the year, celebrating the rich diversity and history of their regions.
- Albany, NY – Tallahassee, FL
- Capital Cities: Both are the capital cities of their respective states, housing state government buildings and officials.
- Historical Significance: They both have a rich history and contain historical sites and museums showcasing their state’s history.
What will I miss moving from New York to Florida?
Moving from New York to Florida isn’t without some sacrifices. Every city and state has its own charms that are hard replace.
Here is what you might miss:
- Four Seasons: Unlike Florida’s subtropical climate, New York experiences all four seasons distinctly. You’ll miss the dramatic fall foliage, a true winter wonderland, and the blossoms of spring.
- Mountainous Terrain: While Florida offers beautiful beaches, it lacks the mountainous landscapes found in New York. You won’t have the Adirondack and Catskill mountains for hiking, camping, and other mountainous adventures.
- Boroughs and Neighborhood Diversity: The distinct boroughs of NYC, each having its own personality and culture, is something unique to New York. The rich diversity within a relatively small geographic area is unparalleled.
- World-Class Food: Although Florida has a rich food culture, New York is home to a vast array of international cuisines represented at both high-end restaurants and accessible street food, with options from virtually every corner of the world.
- Big City Amenities: New York is known for its iconic landmarks like Times Square, Broadway, and Central Park. NYC offers a dense concentration of amenities, including world-renowned museums, theaters, and art galleries that are hard to find elsewhere.
- Public Transportation: New York has a much more developed public transportation system compared to most Florida cities, facilitating easier car-free living and commuting.
- Roadtrips: Within 200 miles of New York, you can reach New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, Rhode Island, and Delaware. From Orlando or Miami, zero states are within 200 miles.
- Family & Friends: Some family might follow you. A few friends might consider moving. And, you will miss them all. But, you will have more visitors than you think—especially if you move to a desirable location like Orlando (74 million annual visitors).
The Job Market is Surprisingly Strong in Florida
If you are considering a move to Florida from New York and are still at a working age, Florida has some surprisingly good news.
New York City is the mecca of commerce in America and so it might seem that any other city without at least 10 million people will surely have job opportunity issues.
We are here to tell you that Florida has a very strong job market and it doesn’t need a mega city to make it happen.
Florida has always been known as a retirement haven, but recent trends indicate a significant paradigm shift.
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Florida has surpassed New York in terms of job opportunities for the first time since the bureau started recording this data in 1982.
The sunshine state ended last year boasting 9,578,500 non-farming industry jobs, marginally outdoing New York’s 9,576,100.
The trend of Americans heading south shows no signs of slowing down, making Florida a promising destination for jobseekers (2023 numbers below).
Over 400,000 people migrated to Florida between July 2021 and July 2022, marking an increase of over 180,000 from the previous year.
Contrary to popular belief, these new settlers are not just there to enjoy their retirement; they are there to work and seize the expanding opportunities. That’s right, many people moving to Florida are younger, working professionals.
One key driver of this trend has been the rise of remote working spurred by the pandemic.
Before COVID-19, New York had a higher job count with 9.9 million jobs compared to Florida’s 9 million.
However, the shift to remote working has prompted many to question the necessity of enduring harsh winters when they can work from the comfort of their Florida home.
In fact, that’s exactly what my son and daughter-in-law did.
Florida leads the U.S in new business starts with over 1.7 million established since January 2020. If you are a business owner, this is a business-friendly state.
Unemployment has also seen a decline of 0.7% according to a March 2023 report by the Department of Economic Opportunity.
Impressively, between February 2022 and February 2023, Florida’s labor force grew by 2.3%, outpacing the national growth rate of 1.5%.
New York Job Count Versus Florida
| Statistical Aspect | Florida | New York |
|---|---|---|
| Job count (end of last year) | 9,578,500 | 9,576,100 |
| Population growth (2021-2022) | +1.9% (22.2 M) | -0.9% (19.6 M) |
What’s the market looking like in 2023?
As of mid-2023, New York and Florida exhibit different economic landscapes.
In New York, there has been a consistent decrease in the unemployment rate from 4.2% in February to 3.9% in July, indicating a strengthening labor market with increasing employment numbers, which rose to 9,377.6 thousand in July from 9,245.3 thousand in February.
Meanwhile, Florida maintains a substantially lower unemployment rate, hovering between 2.6% and 2.7% in the same period, showcasing a robust employment market.
Employment figures have seen a steady increment, reaching 10,785.3 thousand in July from 10,594.7 thousand in February.
The data underscores a terrific labor market in both states, with Florida having a slight edge with a lower unemployment rate.
This data isn’t to say that Florida is somehow economically more powerful than New York, it merely demonstrates that moving to Florida doesn’t mean a sudden loss in job opportunities.
Florida Wages Aren’t Quite as Good
We established the job market is booming and Florida and there are plenty of jobs if you move from New York. Great news right?
Well, there is one hiccup—out of all those jobs available, they don’t all pay the same.
Based on data from the BLS for New York and Florida, the sunshine state doesn’t pay nearly as well.
While we can’t isolate every industry, let’s look at a few jobs in the business sector and compare data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
| Occupation Category | Florida Annual Wage (USD) | New York Annual Wage (USD) | Wage Difference (NY – FL, USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business and Financial Operations Occupations (major) | $78,600 | $107,140 | $28,540 |
| Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes | $96,200 | $121,060 | $24,860 |
| Buyers and Purchasing Agents | $68,790 | $81,380 | $12,590 |
| Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators | $68,270 | $83,870 | $15,600 |
| Human Resources Specialists | $68,760 | $85,170 | $16,410 |
| Management Analysts | $89,760 | $120,730 | $30,970 |
| Accountants and Auditors | $80,200 | $110,320 | $30,120 |
Sorry, but Florida doesn’t pay quite as well.
And, that it is evident that business and financial operations roles generally offer higher annual wages in New York compared to Florida across a variety of positions.
The wage difference ranges from around $12,590 to $30,970, showcasing a substantial wage gap in favor of New York in this sector.
But, you have to remember one thing: you have to make more in New York to afford to live in New York, especially NYC.
Depending on who you are and how you spend your income, a slight drop in pay might be totally worth the quality in life boost.
Florida is an outdoor paradise
New York’s is no slouch when it comes to the outdoors.
From the towering Adirondack Mountains to the serene Finger Lakes for boating and fishing, New York has remarkable natural experiences.
I mean, who doesn’t love the gorgeous Catskill Mountains or weekends in Letchworth and Watkins Glen State Park—oh the waterfalls!
I’m not here to convince you Florida is superior, I’m here to let you know Florida has its own outdoor personality and there is so much exploring ahead of you.
Florida has amazing outdoor amenities too
Florida’s coastal line, which is the longest in the contiguous US, gives an unlimited access to a variety of water sports including, but not limited to, sailing, snorkeling, and kayaking.
The Everglades National Park offers a unique landscape teeming with an array of wildlife, including alligators and a vast variety of bird species.
Furthermore, springs such as those in Ichetucknee Springs State Park offer crystal clear waters for tubing and snorkeling.
Where New York excels at outdoor elevation, Florida’s wonder is under the ocean.
For those keen on terrestrial adventures, there are numerous hiking and biking trails available in state parks such as Oleta River State Park.
Florida’s outdoor experience is amplified by the opportunity to witness remarkable wildlife including dolphins, manatees, and a rich bird life. Here is a tiny snapshot of the parks available:
| Park Name | Type | Location | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Everglades National Park | National | Miami-Dade, Monroe, Collier | Unique ecosystem, wildlife |
| Biscayne National Park | National | Miami-Dade | Coral reefs, islands |
| Dry Tortugas National Park | National | Monroe (Key West) | Historic fort, snorkeling |
| Ichetucknee Springs State Park | State | Fort White | Springs, tubing |
| Oleta River State Park | State | North Miami | Biking trails, kayaking |
| Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park | State | Key Biscayne | Lighthouse, beaches |
We live in Clermont next to Lake Louisa State Park which we love to visit. The hiking and biking is amazing.
Florida really shines with its beaches
| Rank | Beach Name | Short Description |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Siesta Key | Off the coast of Sarasota, known for its white quartz sand, clear water, and vibrant nightlife. |
| #2 | Santa Rosa Beach | Situated on Florida’s northwest coast, it offers white sand beaches and a quieter vibe with dining and art galleries. |
| #3 | Marco Island | Near Naples, this island offers unspoiled habitats and is a hotspot for boating and seafood enthusiasts. |
| #4 | Delray Beach | Combines the charm of a small town with the entertainment options of a large city; famous for its beach and Japanese gardens. |
| #5 | Destin | A family destination with white sand beaches and a range of exciting activities; noted for its high visitor volume in summer. |
| #6 | Palm Beach | Known for its luxury offerings including upscale restaurants and Gilded Age mansions, with beautiful beaches. |
| #7 | Fort Walton Beach | Offers laid-back beaches, deep-sea fishing, and family attractions; noted for beautiful sunsets at Okaloosa Island. |
| #8 | St. George Island | Located off Florida’s Gulf Coast, it is an untouched retreat for relaxation seekers with opportunities for camping and kayaking. |
| #9 | Clearwater Beach | Features gentle water and white sand along with attractions like the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. |
| #10 | Islamorada | Part of the Florida Keys, it is renowned for sport fishing and offers a tranquil beach experience. |
| #11 | Amelia Island | Offers old-world charm with beautiful parks and opportunities for horseback riding tours. |
| #12 | Panama City Beach | Home to a wide shoreline offering a range of pursuits including snorkeling and wildlife watching. |
| #13 | Key Largo | Known as a scuba diving hotspot with opportunities to explore beautiful coral reefs. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it expensive to move to Florida?
In Florida, the peak moving season largely aligns with the general trend observed nationwide, which is from May to September. This period coincides with the summer break for schools, making it a convenient time for families to move without disrupting their children’s education.
However, Florida’s weather is warm year-round, which means that unlike in many other states, moving during the winter months is also quite feasible.
You can expect to pay $1 to $2 per mile when renting a truck and $2,500 to $8,000 for professional movers depending on size of home and whether or not you want white-glove services.
- NYC To Miami: Approximately 1,280 miles via I-95 S.
- NYC To Orlando: Roughly 1,100 miles via I-95 S.
- NYC To Jacksonville: About 940 miles via I-95 S.
Different news outlets have found varying estimates for moving costs:
| ews Outlet | Range | Specifics |
|---|---|---|
| PODS | $2,000 to $8,000 | Cross-country move |
| Angi | $2,462 to $6,874 | Cross-country move |
| U.S. News | $2,500 to $5,000 | Cross-country move |
| Forbes | $1,500 to $15,000 | Cross-country move |
| moveBuddha | $1,050 to $3,500+ | Few hundred miles to cross-country |
Does anyone regret moving to Florida?
Yes. There are many people who end up leaving Florida after a few years.
However, many more people move to Florida than leave Florida.
In fact, Florida typically has a net positive migration each year—adding more residents year over year.
Is there a best time of year to move to Florida due to the weather?
Yes, December through March is the ideal time to move to Florida for the best weather.
If you are worried about hurricanes, avoid moving to Florida during the storm season (June through November).
If you don’t want to move during the rainy season, avoid moving May through September.
If you are worried about extreme heat, May through October are the hottest months of the year.
| Season | Timeframe | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rainy Season | June to September | Characterized by daily thunderstorms and high humidity. |
| Hottest Season | May to September | High temperatures often in the 90s (Fahrenheit) with high humidity. |
| Hurricane Season | June to November | Risk of hurricanes, with peak activity from August to October. |
| Pleasant Season | December to March | Milder temperatures, lower humidity, and less rainfall make this the most pleasant time of year in Florida. |