According to the US Census Bureau, nearly 700,000 out-of-staters flocked to Florida in the last year, most of whom are ex-residents of California. Why are Californians moving to Florida?
More people have moved into Florida than any other state in the last two years. This has given Florida a significant net growth of residents, while New York and California saw a significant decline.
Whether looking for a place to start a business, raise a family, or retire, Florida has something for everyone. Here is everything you should know about moving to Florida and how easy it can be.
Why Are Californians Moving to Florida?
One of the main reasons that many Californians find themselves packing for Florida is because Florida has way more affordable housing options. Housing costs in Florida are very reasonable, and the state ranks 23rd out of 50 for home affordability.
Many Californians realize home affordability is becoming out of reach in other states. It is no secret that house prices have jumped staggeringly over the last few decades, and inflation is also eating into many people’s budgets.
Many older Californians look forward to a Florida lifestyle thanks to the low sales tax, no personal income tax, and inexpensive housing. This lowers the overall cost of living in Florida, which is a breath of fresh air for many Californians who are used to paying exorbitant prices for everything under the sun.
Imagine if you no longer had to pay double digits for a drink at your local bar and could take advantage of some of the best food in the world at a fraction of the price. This is what Florida is in a nutshell. It has always been a magnet for older Americans because the state offers various pensions and savings benefits.
Lower Cost of Living
Besides American retirees wanting to stretch their budgets, many younger people are also buying a home in Florida and making the interstate move from California.
Although some people move to Florida to be closer to other family members or loved ones, many people want to save money. The housing-related issues across the world are not dying down.
Wanting to own a home or find affordable properties in America is slowly becoming a pipe dream for many unless they uproot and move to a state like Florida. A lot of young people are also benefiting from remote work.
Even though it has been a while since the pandemic hit, many companies are leaning towards remote work as a long-term strategy. This way, they can retain employees much longer while people can save a lot of money and time instead of commuting to work and back for hours.
Benefits of Remote Work
Remote work has added a lot of juice to motivate people to leave California for Florida. California’s rent is extremely high, and there is too much competition to apply for the best places.
The median sale price for a single-family house is also almost double what it is to buy in Florida. It is no secret that California housing costs are out of line with the rest of the nation.
At this time, it has become increasingly challenging for many low and middle-income folks to settle in California. Even the people who have been raised there are feeling the severe financial pinch.
The motivation for buying a home in Florida has never been stronger. If you have plenty of remote working benefits, you do not need to live paycheck to paycheck to make ends meet in an expensive place like California.
Florida has incredible weather, too, and the prices are significantly lower. This means you can save for retirement, fund higher education, or any future plans without sacrificing everything that makes you happy. Check out Tallahassee to enjoy the Florida lifestyle and find your family’s perfect dream home.
Benefits of Living in Florida
The housing costs in Florida are the most reasonable in the country. Many Americans get the house they want in Florida at a fraction of the price they would pay in areas like California or New York.
Buyers get plenty of real estate for their dollar in this beautiful, sunshine state. There is also a strong sports culture that makes living here so exciting. Many young people follow sports teams, and Florida is the ideal hub for amateur sports with tons of recreational opportunities.
You can find tennis courts, golf courses, and many more activities to participate in and enjoy with loved ones. There are organized leagues and teams for all ages, and thanks to the fantastic sunny climate, you will always feel energized and motivated outdoors.
Nature lovers also swoon over Florida’s incredible flora and fauna. It is hard for residents to get enough of the beaches, forests, wetlands, and diverse landscapes. Florida is a stunning haven for all different species of animals and plants.
Some of the most beautiful flowers you will find in Florida are the blue daze, hibiscus, and lantana. The state is also home to numerous species of trees like cypresses, pines, and live oaks. These provide essential habitats for wildlife, which there is no shortage of in Florida.
Regarding fauna, you will come across various species of birds like flamingos, herons, and pelicans. Then you also have gorgeous mammals like dolphins, alligators, and manatees.
It is best to visit The Everglades National Park. This spans most of southern Florida and is the most beautiful habitat if you want to spot many species of animals and plants.
Enjoy the Florida Lifestyle
Now that you know why are Californians moving to Florida, it may be time to join the gang to get through this cost-of-living crisis. Florida is the place where you can save the most money.
It also does not have income tax and is a great place to reside. Many people strive to live in Florida to lower their tax bill.
If you want to raise a family without spending your entire net worth on a Californian property, it is worth looking into buying a home in Florida if you want more bang for your buck. If you enjoyed reading this best places to Live in Florida guide, check out some of our other posts.
