Moving To Florida Everything You Need to Know

#movingtoflorida #retirement #floridaprosandcons

If you’re thinking of moving to Florida here is my rundown of everything you need to know before you go. This video highlights cost of housing, employment opportunities, recreation, as well as, the pros and cons of living in Florida.

FLORIDA LANDSCAPE

Florida has countless beautiful beachside towns to choose from and that is why many move here. So which side of the state is for you? The west coast of Florida and east of Florida are different. The west coast of Florida has is totally different than the east coast of the state. I’m pretty sure most people don’t know that the Gulf of Mexico has less waves and wind than the Atlantic coast side. The Atlantic coast side has waves and wind and it does make the heat more tolerable. I find the west coast to be much hotter with the lack of air flow, but that’s me, many people love the Naples / Tampa area.

For those who feel that Florida is for old farts, well I’m happy to report that Florida also offers big city life too. City lovers can find a fast-paced, cosmopolitan lifestyle in Miami, Fort Lauderdale and several other cities that are just a short drive from any beach town. So, for all of those who like clubbing you can still do that here in Florida. And for the country folks, central Florida offers more of a country lifestyle with rolling hills, farmland and less people. If you like a “laid back” situation you will like the middle section of the state. In a nutshell, Florida has a great deal of diversity and many cities to choose from. I think most people should easily find a location fits their lifestyle.

EMPLOYMENT

Perhaps not surprisingly, one of Florida’s biggest employers is Walt Disney World. Another major Florida employer is the local public school system, as well as the health care industry. As one of the country’s top tourist destinations, Florida also employs over a million people in the hospitality and tourism industry. Florida is home to some of the most popular water parks, amusement parks and hotels in North America, and they all need large numbers of staff members to thrive. Many Floridians also work in the agriculture industry, as Florida has a longer growing season than most states. Some of the most popular Florida agricultural products include oranges, dairy, sugarcane and tomatoes. Florida is also home to top aviation companies and of course we have Nasa in Cape Canaveral.

HOUSING

Home Pricing Florida’s median home value is $233,200, which is slightly higher than the national average of $226,800. The cost of home prices within the state varies from community to community. For instance, the area I live in the median price of a home is $253K. Some coastal communities are more expensive than others, but honestly many beachfront towns are surprisingly affordable.

RECREATION and THINGS TO DO

In Florida, you’ll never run out of wilderness and outdoor areas to explore. Whether you want to lounge on the white sand along the Gulf of Mexico, or catch a wave on the Atlantic coast, the Florida beaches are beckoning. And if you didn’t know Florida also has crystal-clear springs, rivers, and lakes. If you like water sports we have it all, from paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing and swimming, these sports are always in season. And of course we have many golf courses, so if there is a golfer in your life they won’t be disappointed. Oh, and let’s not forget the dozens of theme parks to keep you busy. Theme parks are not my bag, but many do enjoy the experience.

FOODIE?

All along the coastline you’ll find some of the freshest seafood the country has to offer, and the best part is, you don’t need a reservation to sink your teeth into the an expertly prepared blackened grouper sandwich. As a matter of fact, Florida’s best kept foodie secret is the seafood dives tucked away in the many off the beaten path sleepy beach towns. Like where I live in Jensen Beach.

PROS

State has no income tax
The cost of living is much lower compared to the rest of the country
The cost of living in Florida is lower compared to other states on the East Coast
Florida has several world-famous beaches and outdoor attractions.
It doesn’t snow in winter and it’s mostly warm year-round.
Residents receive discounts to some popular local attractions.
A growing number of retirement communities are found in Florida.
It doesn’t snow in winter and it’s mostly warm year-round.

CONS

Florida is visited by a couple of hurricanes every year.
The ‘Florida heat’ is not loved by everyone.
The state’s terrain is mostly flat so there are not many mountains or valleys.
There are several tourists as well as part-time residents than in the other states.
Unlike in most parts of the country, Florida residents pay higher insurance costs.
Since this state is warmer, there are more bugs there. Plus, they are bigger, too.

WHAT TO WATCH NEXT

EAGLE MARSH GOLF CLUB https://youtu.be/gVNpXDO4zv8

SAND PIPER BAY PORT ST LUCIE FLORIDA https://youtu.be/5yVImti-xBE

55 Plus Communities in Stuart https://youtu.be/FxOdFmuAr68

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