Florida has long been a popular destination for people looking to move somewhere new. And why not? The state boasts sunny weather all year round and is dotted with some gorgeous beaches. Moreover, the lack of state income tax makes it easy to see why Florida is so appealing.
Even the cities in the Sunshine State offer something unique for people with different needs. Let’s say you’re a beach lover or enjoy a vibrant nightlife then Miami will suit you. Those who are seeking an active waterfront retirement lifestyle should look up houses in Fort Lauderdale.
Tampa offers big city amenities like museums, performing arts, and major sports teams, while Orlando is best known for theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios, making it a family-friendly city. No matter what you’re looking for in a new hometown, Florida has appealing cities with unique personalities.
So, without further ado, let’s explore some of the top reasons you might want to consider packing up and heading to the Sunshine State.
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Florida is Pet-Friendly
If you have furry family members, Florida offers a very pet-friendly environment. The warm climate enables outdoor activities that pets love year-round. Plus, there are dozens of pet-friendly beaches, parks, hiking trails, restaurants and hotels for pets. Fort Lauderdale is particularly accommodating for pet owners, boasting pet-friendly condos and a dedicated Canine Beach where dogs are welcome.
This kind of pet-friendly atmosphere, which extends to places like Fort Lauderdale, emphasizes the importance of considering your pets’ needs when planning a move. After all, relocating to a new home isn’t just about transporting belongings; it’s about ensuring the comfort and well-being of all family members, including your pets.
That’s why, when considering a move to or within the city, choosing the right Fort Lauderdale moving company is crucial for a smooth transition for both you and your pets. Bekins of South Florida understands the unique needs of pet owners and offers tailored moving services to ensure a comfortable and stress-free move for your entire family, furry members included.
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The Weather is Fantastic Year-Round
If you’re tired of shoveling snow and bundling up through long winters, Florida’s weather will seem like a dream. The state enjoys warm temperatures throughout the year, with daily highs in the 70s and 80s. Even northern Florida gets a reprieve from the cold during the winter months.
The farther south you go, the hotter it gets. Summers are hot and humid throughout the state, but the cool ocean breeze balances out the heat. Sea temperatures stay comfortable for swimming from spring through fall. Snow is pretty much unheard of in Florida.
The year-round warm weather makes it easy to enjoy outdoor activities all the time. You’ll never have to let the weather stop you from golfing, boating, swimming, or just relaxing on the beach. If you’re looking to escape frigid winters, Florida is a great choice.
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Florida is a Top Retirement Destination
It’s no secret that Florida is one of the most popular places in the U.S. for retirees. In fact, Florida has the highest concentration of retirees in the country. About 21% of Florida’s population are senior citizens aged 65 and older.
With its warm weather, a plethora of golf courses, and a myriad of senior-friendly communities and activities, Florida is an excellent place to enjoy your golden years. Retirees also benefit from Florida’s lack of income tax.
The state does not tax any retirement income, including social security benefits and distributions from 401(k)s and IRAs. This helps stretch retirement savings further. Florida also offers retirees discounts on things like hotel stays, restaurant meals, and entertainment.
Special senior rates are available for everything from public transportation to property taxes. With so many amenities tailored specifically for seniors, it’s easy to see why Florida is at the top of many retirees’ list of dream destinations.
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Florida’s Real Estate Market is Booming
In recent years, Florida has become one of the hottest real estate markets in the country. In fact, according to a recent study by Zillow, Florida has overtaken New York. The residential property value has reached $160 billion in Florida since June 2022, whereas California (which was ranked at the top) saw its prices decline over the same period.
If you’re wondering, what is it that’s driving people from states like New York and California to relocate to Florida? It is the low tax, high quality of life, and the ability to work remotely. This influx of new residents is fueling major growth in Florida’s housing market.
Real estate investors also flock to Florida to buy rental properties and vacation homes. With high demand from buyers and renters combined with limited housing inventory, investing in Florida real estate can be extremely lucrative.
Moving to Florida may be a chance to start fresh, or make a chance in your type of house. Perhaps you are looking for something bigger, or maybe you are looking to downsize. You can sell your home, organize an online estate sale, and downsize or even stay with the same size home for less.
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Florida is a Tax-Friendly State
A major advantage Florida offers is its lack of a state income tax. For individuals and families looking to keep more of their hard-earned money, Florida’s tax situation is a big draw.
The state has no personal income tax and no estate tax. Retirees also don’t have to pay state taxes on Social Security benefits or retirement account withdrawals. Overall, Florida’s tax burden is one of the lowest in the U.S. While property taxes can be high, the overall tax situation in Florida is very favorable.
For many people, moving to Florida can lead to substantial tax savings compared to states with high income and property taxes. If you want to keep more money in your pocket, Florida’s tax-friendly status makes it very appealing.
Conclusion
Whether you’re retiring, raising a family, buying real estate, or just looking for adventure, you’re sure to find something to love about living in Florida.
Of course, no place is perfect. The state does face challenges like hurricane risks, crowded cities, and hot summers. However, for many people, the advantages of moving to Florida far outweigh any downsides. If you’re considering a relocation, be sure to weigh all the factors. But there are certainly great reasons to think about calling the Sunshine State your new home.
