Thinking of moving to Florida? The Sunshine State is one of the most fun places to live in the United States. Located on the extreme southeast of the United States, Florida is bordered on one side by the Atlantic Ocean and by the Gulf of Mexico. The state has some of the best and most famous beaches in the entire country, particularly in Miami. From the world’s most exciting theme parks to encounters with the Everglades wildlife to extensive infrastructures for services like Spectrum Internet plans, Florida has it all. If you’re planning on relocating long-term to the state, you need to check out this blog to know what to expect.
Lots Of Sun And Warmth
What else would you expect from a state nicknamed “The Sunshine State”? Florida’s climate is as sub-tropical as it gets. It’s warm and sunny for most of the year, but that doesn’t mean the weatherman has an easy job. The warmth is periodically interrupted by a mild winter every year. Don’t worry though, you don’t need to pack your parka, insulation blanket, and snow boots. A windbreaker or a light jacket should get you through those months comfortably. Expect temperatures in the 80s during the hottest days of the summer months, perfect weather to work on that tan.
The Wildlife Is Teeming
The great weather in Florida isn’t just great for people, but for the local wildlife as well. Florida is home to a remarkably diverse range of flora and fauna. It isn’t rare to see an American alligator casually making its way across a golf course, or just chilling out in your neighbor’s pool. The climate is also suitable for cold-blooded animals like snakes, many of which aren’t even native to Florida. In fact, Florida has often served as the perfect environment for non-native subtropical wildlife to flourish outside their native ecosystems. The wildlife in Florida and the Everglades is unlike anything anywhere else in the country. Be sure to bring your camera, and avoid the urge to take a dip in every watering hole you see.
Housing Costs Above National Average
Whether you intend to rent living space or buy a home, you likely want to understand housing costs in Florida before you relocate. The state has an average housing cost that is only slightly higher than the national average. However, there are many options to choose from. Some homes offer serene beachfront views while others may be high-rise condos looking over the city skyline. Florida is also unique among American states for having a large concentration of Mediterranean-style villas and homes. Nobody can deny the people of Florida their eclectic styles.
Don’t Skimp On Flood Insurance
In the US, getting appropriate insurance coverage is a way of life. It helps protect you against financial loss in the event of a fire or an earthquake or even a sudden medical illness. You’ll likely need to get the same types of insurance in Florida as well. However, you should also prioritize the key addition of flood insurance. The everglades and rivers put most of the state at acute risk of flooding during severe storms. In most cases, many homes are located fairly near water sources and are always facing the potential risk of flooding. However, most homeowner insurance policies don’t include flood insurance. It needs to be purchased separately from FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program.
Population and Demographics
Florida had a population of over 21 million by the end of 2019. The state has a high percentage of transplants and is home to people from all parts of the country. The state does not have a very high median age, although a large percentage of senior citizens often choose to live out their retirement at one of the many retirement facilities in the state. Roughly half the population is Caucasian, and Hispanics are the second-largest ethnicity in the state. Florida is also home to diverse communities of African-American and Asian descent.
No State Income Taxes
Whether you’re buying or renting, there are several other costs to consider when relocating. Such as the availability of utilities and public services like transportation. Of course, since the weather is mostly warm, you won’t be needing heating as much as you need Spectrum TV packages. This in itself is a big saver. But the biggest advantage of living in Florida is that there are NO state income taxes. Your income is yours to spend, so feel free to invest it in some stylish beachwear and maybe a gym membership.
