What to Know Before Moving to Florida

California is crowded and expensive. Texas is, well, Texas. For those looking to relocate someplace warm, sunny, and sandy in the United States, that leaves only one other option: Florida.

If you’re thinking about moving to Florida, you’re not alone. There’s been a mass exodus to the Sunshine State in recent years. It’s no surprise; Florida continues to rank high on the list of best states to live in the U.S.

With this in mind, those looking to relocate to Florida need to act fast. However, it’s also important to look before you leap.

Let’s take a look at six things worth knowing before packing up and moving to Florida

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According to the Washington Post, more than 41 percent of hurricanes in the United States make landfall in Florida. That’s a staggering statistic, one that often brings pause to those thinking about moving to the Sunshine State. With that said, certain parts of Florida are more likely to experience hurricanes than others. Generally speaking, Central Florida is the least affected, followed by the Northeast part of the state. The worst hit parts of Florida tend to be on the Gulf side, near the Panhandle. Take time to research the risk of hurricanes in a specific area. Doing so will help prepare you for the possibility of hunkering down or evacuating.

Tax rates change from one state to another. Those moving to Florida should compare property tax rates before making the move. The good news is the average Florida property tax rate hovers around 1.1 percent, which is lower than the national average of 1.21 percent. The exact amount you pay will depend on the county; the average tax rate in Broward County is 1.08 percent, while the one imposed by Orange County is 0.94 percent.

Those used to paying a hefty state income tax are in for some good news; Florida residents are not required to pay any state income tax. While it sounds too good to be true, Florida isn’t the only state to eliminate personal income tax. The list also includes Alaska, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming.

The Florida highway system consists of tolled roads interconnected with the interstate. Check the map to determine whether or not you’ll be in an area with a high number of tolls. If you’re in Miami, Orlando, or one of the other major cities, buying an annual SunPass will probably be the best option in terms of convenience and savings.

If you love visiting theme parks and resorts like Busch Gardens, Disney World, and Universal Studios, you’re in luck. Florida residents are entitled to discount passes for these theme parks. For instance, Walt Disney World offers Florida residents the “Disney Pixie Dust Pass” for a one-time down payment of $205 plus $19 per month. These state resident passes tend to include blackout dates centered around the major holidays, so check the calendar before planning a trip to visit Mickey and Minnie.

Many people are shocked to discover the cost of living in Florida is lower than the national average. The low tax rates imposed by the state are the biggest factor in the low cost of living. It affects the cost of goods and services. Combined with the higher average salary and wages for various occupations, the affordable nature of Florida living is by far one of the biggest driving factors behind the influx of new residents.

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Do you want to move to the Sunshine State? If so, you’re not alone. But rather than race down there to beat the competition, take time to learn about living in Florida.

Published in: Home advice | Author: Lynn