While many tourists visit Florida for its beautiful beaches and sunny weather, there are those who have been drawn in by the charms of the Sunshine State and decide to stay here permanently. And it’s no wonder, considering that Florida has great weather practically all year round, no state income tax, amazing cultural diversity, and so many other things going for it. But what do you need to know about Florida before moving there?
If you are considering moving to the Sunshine State, there are a lot of preparations that need to be done. A big part of this involves the logistics behind the actual moving process. Of course, you can always inquire about moving services Tampa residents trust and choose one that can help you. You can also inquire about their packing services for your convenience.
8 Key Things to Know about Florida Before Moving There
Aside from taking care of the moving process, there are other things you need to prepare for as a resident before moving to Florida.
1. You Can Expect Warm Pleasant Weather Most Days
Having a sub-tropical climate, most areas in Florida have long summers and short mild winters. In the summer, the temperature plays at the 80s mark, so it’s best to wear clothing made of soft and light materials like cotton and linen. During winter, you may need a light jacket with the average temperature reaching the low 50s when you are in Northern Florida and the upper 60s if you are staying in Southern Florida.
Rain showers are also common in Florida as the state sees about 55 inches of precipitation each year. Even in the summer, you can experience rainstorms in the afternoons that last about 45 minutes. When it comes to more extreme weather, the region is visited by hurricanes from June to November. You can expect the peak between late August and September. But it’s still possible to be a Florida resident and not experience any hurricanes. However, it’s good to learn about hurricane safety when relocating to Florida just to make sure you are prepared in case you encounter a severe weather alert.
2. There’s Plenty of Job Opportunities
You can expect that some of the biggest employers in Florida can be found in amusement parks and the tourism industry. But there are other job opportunities in public schools, healthcare, agriculture, biomedical research, and aviation. Also, some of the fastest-growing jobs in Florida include nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and statisticians.
If you are thinking of specific job positions, the most common ones are:
- Motorboat operators
- Aerospace engineers and technicians
- Farm advisors
- Electrical technicians
- Amusement and recreation attendants
- Pest control workers
- Commercial drivers
- Construction workers
3. You Can Find Eclectic Home Designs
You can see various styles of houses in Florida. There are historic homes and modern resort-type condos. But the most common theme amongst Florida homes is Spanish and Mediterranean designs, featuring tiled roofs, stucco walls, and iron window trim. When it comes to housing costs, the median home value is at $206,476, which is just a bit higher compared to the national average. You can also expect the price to increase when moving to beachfront towns compared to other parts of Florida. If you’re thinking about renting a home, the median rent price is $1,800.
4. The Cost of Living Is Low
Compared to other states, the cost of living in Florida is low. As a warm-weather state, you don’t need to spend so much on winter clothing. Also, the lack of state income tax is a big factor because it means you can dedicate most of your earnings to utilities and essential expenses. However, as a car owner, you can expect high gas taxes. It’s a good thing you don’t need to spend much on heating fuel, but you need to be smart about your commute. You can combine errands or live close to your workplace to save on gas money.
5. Visitors Flock the State
Tourists are a common sight in Florida all year round but most especially in spring and summer, so be prepared with the influx of people. Most of them will go to the main attractions like Disney World, the Everglades, and the Florida Keys. During winter, many visitors also come to Florida so they can escape the cold climate in their home state. These seasonal visitors are often from locations like New York, Vermont, and Michigan. They stay in Florida and come back to their homes up north once the snow melts.
6. The Cuisine Is Diverse
The food in Florida is as unique as the region you will be moving into. When you venture into Northern Florida, you can savor Creole and Cajun cooking. In Southern Florida, many delicacies are brought by the strong Cuban and Caribbean influence. Since Florida is close to the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, you can expect an abundance of seafood in many of the local dishes. Lobsters, stone crabs, snappers, clams, and mahi-mahi are just some of the things you’ll be able to taste. In addition, the long growing season makes fruits and vegetables plentiful, so fresh produce is always available.
7. It Is a Retiree’s Haven
The Sunshine State attracts many retirees, mainly because of the warm weather. Another alluring feature is that retirees receive their pensions tax-free since there is no state income tax. Seniors also appreciate the easy access to the beach and other nature scenes. But elder adults are not the only ones being lured into the state. Many individuals see the potential of Florida to raise their families, while millennials are also moving to Florida and buying homes.
8. The State Has Many Natural Spaces Aside from Beaches
Florida is a popular destination because of the beaches, but outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy the state’s other natural spaces. You can explore the Everglades by boat or hike various trails. For other water adventures, you can go kayaking, paddling, or wind-surfing. You can also ride a hot air balloon or do the zip line to enjoy the different views of the state.
Moving to a state like Florida can be considered a big life change, which is why you need to do all that you can to make the transition as smooth as possible. This means gathering all the necessary information to prepare you for your life in this new place. Make sure to do your research properly, so you have a clear idea of what to expect once you move.
