Florida is the second-largest population magnet behind Texas, driven by no state income tax, low effective property tax (0.86%), warm winters, and beaches. The downsides have changed materially in the last few years: property insurance has gotten brutally expensive, and climate risk is no longer hypothetical.
The tax picture
No state income tax. State sales tax is 6%; local can push it to 7.5%. Effective property tax is moderate at 0.86% — much lower than Texas. If you're moving from a high-tax state, the savings are real, especially on retirement income.
Where to live
- Miami / Fort Lauderdale — International, expensive, nightlife, 110% climate-exposed.
- Orlando — Theme park economy, growing tech sector, more affordable than the coasts.
- Tampa / St. Petersburg — Beach + city, hurricane risk on the Gulf side, cigar history.
- Jacksonville — Largest city by area in the continental US, Navy economy, most affordable of the big metros.
- Tallahassee — State capital, college town (FSU), Southern feel.
- Naples / Sarasota — Retiree-popular, expensive, rebuilding from recent hurricanes.
What you must understand
Property insurance. Florida's property insurance market has been in crisis since 2022. Premiums have tripled in some markets, several insurers have left the state, and the state-run Citizens insurer is the largest in the state. Get quotes before you make an offer, not after.
Hurricanes. Hurricane risk is geographic. Inland Orlando is fundamentally different from coastal Naples. Look at FEMA flood zone maps and ask sellers for elevation certificates.
Pace and politics. Florida is one of the fastest-growing states demographically and politically active in ways that may matter for your work, schools, or healthcare access. Read primary sources.
DMV deadlines
Florida requires vehicle registration within 10 days of taking employment or putting kids in school, and license transfer within 30 days. Source: FLHSMV.