Lisa O.
The Sunshine State attracts many people looking for warmer weather. Big cities like Orlando even have some of the best financial advisors around, ready to help you manage your money, whether you’re retired or not. While Florida is well-known for being a top spot for retirees, people of all ages are increasingly drawn to its charm. If you’re considering a move to Florida, here are 15 important things you should know before making the jump.
Florida Has a Large Senior Population
Florida isn’t the state with the oldest population, but it’s definitely up there. It’s a favorite spot for retirees, thanks to its warm weather and tax perks for those who’ve stopped working. But that doesn’t mean young folks should cross Florida off their list. The state has a lot going for it, no matter your age. In fact, it’s becoming a super popular pick for millennials looking to buy a home.
Florida’s Wildlife Includes More Than Just Alligators
Florida gators definitely grab a lot of attention, and the state’s more dangerous wildlife gets most of the buzz. You’re more likely to hear about gator encounters or snakes under porches than about the graceful egrets or gentle manatees. But if you’re into the outdoors, you’ll love exploring Florida’s diverse ecosystems and spotting all the cool critters that call the Sunshine State home.
South and North Florida Have Very Different Vibes
South Florida and North Florida can feel like totally different worlds. The south is very diverse, with a big Latin American and Caribbean influence, and it’s where the nightlife really pops. North Florida—where the state capital is, has a different climate and a unique vibe of its own. If you’re thinking about buying a place here, it’s good to know that South Florida is more impacted by rising sea levels and climate change.
The Party Scene Varies Across Florida
Florida isn’t just a place for laid-back retirees or nonstop party-goers—there’s a lot more to it. Sure, some spots are known for their relaxed, senior scene, and places like Miami have a reputation for their wild nightlife. But those stereotypes don’t paint the whole picture. Florida’s got a bit of everything—family-friendly neighborhoods, quirky small towns, artsy cities, and amazing natural getaways.
Brush Up on Hurricane Safety Before Moving
If you’re moving to Florida—especially South Florida, it’s a good idea to brush up on hurricane safety and monitor weather alerts during hurricane season. You might need to board up your windows or hunker down without electricity. Doing some homework before your first hurricane season will make things much easier.
Florida’s Swing State Status Makes Your Vote Important
In Florida, your vote in presidential elections really packs a punch. So expect to see many more political ads on TV and social media. You might also get more knocks on your door from campaign folks trying to win you over. And get ready for more political talk with friends, neighbors, and coworkers. It’s all part of the lively political scene where every vote is a big deal and gets a lot of attention.
Tourists Are an Everyday Part of Florida Life
Whether it’s the spring break party vibe in the Keys, the magic of Disney World, the wild beauty of the Everglades, or the cool Art Deco scene in Miami Beach, tourists love Florida. If you’re moving here, be ready for a big influx of visitors, especially during busy travel times. You’ll probably spot a lot of people from the Northeast escaping the cold. Give them a warm welcome—they’re just here to soak up some sunshine!
Consider Visiting Disney World at Least Once
A trip to Disney World can get pretty pricey, but it’s a must-do Florida experience. If you’re living in South Florida, you might not be thrilled about the drive up to Disney World, but if you’ve got kids, they’ll likely talk you into it sooner or later. Just watch out on the road—Florida made the top 10 list for most reckless drivers in a 2022 SmartAsset study.
The Daytona 500 is a Classic Florida Event
Like Disney World, the Daytona 500 is a huge deal in Florida. It’s called The Great American Race® for a reason, drawing massive crowds and tons of excitement. The event is known for its high-energy vibe and interesting mix of people—making it a perfect spot for some fun people-watching and soaking up a big part of Florida’s culture.
Florida’s History is Rich and Fascinating
Florida’s history is fascinating. It includes Native communities like the Seminole Tribe, which are still a big part of the state today. You can also check out early Spanish settlements. For instance, St. Augustine, which the Spanish established back in 1565, is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the continental U.S.
Baseball Fans Will Feel at Home in Florida
If you’re into baseball or thinking about giving it a shot, moving to Florida is a win. Every spring, Florida becomes the hub for the Grapefruit League, where major league teams come to train. You can catch both big-name players and up-and-coming stars at games that are usually pretty affordable. Plus, the nice spring weather makes for a great day out.
Explore More of Florida’s Nature Beyond the Beach
It might seem hard to believe now, but some people do get tired of hitting the beach all the time. If that happens to you, don’t stress—Florida has tons of other outdoor fun to offer. You can go boating or paddling through the mangroves and Everglades. Or try hiking, zip-lining, or even a hot air balloon ride.
Florida Offers Low Taxes but High Gas Costs
Florida is great because there’s no state income tax, and the cost of living is pretty affordable. But keep in mind that gas taxes are on the high side. To save on gas and cash—try to combine your errands and consider living close to work. It’ll help you cut down on those extra trips and keep more money in your pocket.
Florida is a Paradise for Golf Enthusiasts
Whether you’re a golf fan or think golf courses are just water-guzzling eyesores, Florida’s the place to be. The state has loads of golf courses and hosts golf tournaments year-round. If you’ve never given golf a try, you might want to hit the links once you move to Florida—to find out what all the buzz is about.
Be Aware of Sinkholes in Florida
You might already be dealing with alligators, pythons, flying roaches, and hurricanes, but Florida has one more surprise: sinkholes. These can sometimes swallow up cars or even buildings out of the blue. The ground here is pretty porous, so sinkholes can show up unexpectedly. There’s no real way to predict where or when one might appear, making it just another quirky part of life in the Sunshine State.
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