Moving to Florida? Save Big & Avoid Common Mistakes
May 5, 2025
5 minutes
Around 1 million people moved to the Sunshine State last year, and its net population is constantly increasing. But, you might be wondering if the cost of living, climate, and other pre-requisites are right for moving to Florida.
Florida has a 0% state income tax policy. The average cost of living in Florida USA is $50,689 per year. This is 2% lower than the national average in the country. The state has seen an 86% gain in new businesses in 2023, showcasing a good job market and economy.
Moving is a complex process and requires a lot of planning. You can leverage the AI capabilities of real estate websites like reAlpha to find homes before you move.
Key Considerations When Moving to Florida
Florida is a hotspot in the USA and has a warm and humid climate throughout the year. If you are somebody looking to enjoy the warmth, you’ll certainly love it. However, you must be vary of the hurricane season between June and November. Being prepared is an important guide to Florida and its natural ailments.
When you are moving, you will incur moving costs anywhere between $450 to $4,000 based on the distance. Apart from this, you’ll have utility expenses amounting to between $400 to $500 per month. Finally, you will have housing costs, which can start from $1,950 and go up to $3,300 based on the location.
If you plan to upgrade or refinance after moving, recasting your mortgage lets you lower monthly payments-without refinancing..
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Moving to Florida Checklist
Moving to a new state is not easy. Here is a moving to Florida checklist.
- Research Your Area: The first step is to do thorough research on the area you want to live in. Find out whether schools, hospitals, markets, and restaurants are located in close proximity to your home.
- Find a Place to Live: When moving to FL, identify which part you are shifting to. If you are in a city, you might require different gear than in the suburbs.
- Setting Up Utilities & Services: Find out service providers that can connect water, electricity, internet, and other essentials. Try to ensure you set them up before you decide to relocate.
- Permits & Licensing Requirements: People are moving to Florida, and permits are something to take care of. You need to register your vehicle in the state and update your driver’s license. You are also required to update your address, voter registration and attain professional licenses to practice your profession.
While handling legal docs like your driver’s license and voter ID, don’t overlook the mortgagee clause-vital for home insurance setup.
Popular Cities & Regions in Florida
The Sunshine State has 3 distinct regions with unique lifestyles. Let us look at where to move in Florida based on certain factors.
- South Florida (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach): Known for beaches, nightlife, and diverse culture.
- Central Florida (Orlando, Tampa): Theme parks, job opportunities, and family-friendly communities.
- North Florida (Jacksonville, Tallahassee): More affordable and quieter, with a mix of suburban and urban lifestyles.
Benefits of Moving to Florida
Florida is a top destination for Americans looking to relocate. Here are the 4 best things about Florida.
1. No Income Tax- Florida is amongst a few states in the US that have zero income tax. Furthermore, property taxes in the state are significantly lower.
2. Great Job Opportunities- The economy of the Sunshine State is a booming beacon of employment. The state aims to add 2 million new jobs by 2030 across different sectors.
3. Weather- Florida has beautiful warm and sunny weather throughout the year. People living in Florida enjoy several outdoor activities year-round.
4. Active Outdoor Lifestyle- One of the best things about Florida is its beaches, parks, golf, and hiking activities.
Things to Know Before You Move To Florida
The most important thing when moving to Florida is to have a good community. Try and visit the neighborhood you plan on moving to before finalizing - this is key to helping you decide where you want to live. If you are moving to Florida from Maryland or New Jersey, for example, it is important to get a feel of the place.
You might be wondering why so many people are moving to Florida. The simple answer is the real estate market in Florida is booming. You can decide to enjoy your stay now and consider your house as an investment for the future.
Want lower payments as you settle into Florida life? Explore 40-year mortgages to boost affordability and flexibility.
Not sure how much to save before you move? Here’s what your mortgage down payment could look like.
Pros and Cons of Living in Florida
Pros:
- No Income Tax
- Great Job Opportunities
- Excellent weather conditions
- Versatile outdoor environment
Cons:
- High Humidity
- Traffic congestion in cities
- Fear of Hurricanes from June to November
Save up to 1.5% at closing when you buy
Save up to 1.5% at closing when you combine real estate and mortgage services with reAlpha.
Additional Resources for New Floridians
We have covered so far why do people move to Florida. Now, let us look into some additional things you need to be aware of.
The first smart trick is to get good hurricane and flood insurance for better home security. You also need to understand your property taxes and other local taxes based on your county. Furthermore, look into your local mortgage lenders to find the best terms on your home purchase.
Florida is booming-but with demand comes risk. Learn how to spot and avoid mortgage fraud before you buy.
reAlpha's Guide to Finding the Perfect Florida Home
If you're dreaming of moving to Florida, don’t just hope for the best-plan for it like a pro. With stunning weather, 0% income tax, and explosive real estate growth, the Sunshine State offers opportunity-but only if you move smart.
That’s where reAlpha comes in.
Whether you're relocating for lifestyle, retirement, or opportunity, reAlpha’s AI-powered platform eliminates confusion, hidden costs, and commission traps. We help you:
- Find the best home at the best price
- Buy commission-free, saving thousands
- Access 24/7 expert guidance tailored to you
Don’t just move. Move better.
Let reAlpha help you own your Florida future-without overpaying or second-guessing.
Before you start your search, don’t forget to understand your mortgage options-it’s the first smart step toward buying right in Florida.
FAQs
1. Is it a good idea to move to Florida?
Florida is a good place to live for the young and the old. The state has excellent weather with excellent healthcare, education, jobs, and a great outdoor experience.
2. How much money would I need to move to Florida?
The cost of moving to Florida can cost up to $4,000. However, it depends on the distance of your relocation and the load you are going to carry.
Planning to use gifted funds for your down payment? Here’s how a mortgage gift letter works and how to get it right.
3. Are people happier when they move to Florida?
Florida is a great place for people due to its weather and excellent growth potential. The Sunshine State has zero income tax, with great employment opportunities, good healthcare, and education.
4. How much money should you save before moving to Florida?
The amount of money you need to save depends on the lifestyle and desired location of your house. For moving, you’ll need to save at least $450 and up to $800 for rent each month.
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As a great communicator with excellent negotiation skills, I focus more on establishing unbreakable ties between my clients, as opposed to just helping them achieve their real estate dreams. As a representative of both buyers and sellers, I understand how to lead a transaction process to ensure that the needs of both are met. My track record speaks for itself. Since I ventured into the industry in 2013 as a realtor, I have not only helped many buyers land perfect homes, but I have also assisted tons of owners and investors build wealth.