Moving to Florida in 2026
Zero state income tax. 300,000+ people relocating annually. A $150K earner saves $10,000+/year vs. New York. But hurricane insurance costs $6,600/year—here's the real math.
0%
State Income Tax
300K+
Annual Net Migration
$1,600
Avg 2BR Rent (Tampa)
237
Sunny Days/Year
Why 300,000+ People Move to Florida Annually
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Florida consistently ranks #1 in net domestic migration. Here's why:
Zero State Income Tax
Florida is 1 of 9 states with no income tax. A $100K earner keeps $5,000-$10,000 more annually vs. high-tax states.
237 Sunny Days/Year
No snow shoveling, no seasonal depression. Average winter temperature: 60-70°F. Perfect for outdoor lovers and retirees.
1,350 Miles of Coastline
Both Atlantic and Gulf beaches. World-famous destinations from Miami Beach to Clearwater to Key West.
Bright Futures Scholarship
Florida residents get 75-100% tuition covered at state universities. Huge savings for families with college-bound kids.
Choose Your Florida City
Florida offers everything from international metros to affordable beach towns. Here's a quick guide:
Miami
International hub, finance, nightlife. Most expensive but highest salaries. Latin American gateway.
Avg 2BR: $2,800 • Very high cost
Compare cost of livingTampa Bay
Best value major metro. Growing tech scene, Gulf beaches, professional sports. Sweet spot for cost/lifestyle.
Avg 2BR: $1,600 • Moderate cost
Compare cost of livingOrlando
Theme parks, growing tech sector, family-friendly. No beach but 1 hour to both coasts.
Avg 2BR: $1,700 • Moderate cost
Compare cost of livingJacksonville
Most affordable major Florida city. Large land area, beaches, growing job market. Finance hub.
Avg 2BR: $1,400 • Lower cost
Compare cost of livingYour Potential Savings: Real Numbers
Based on 2026 IRS tax tables and state tax rates
$100K Salary (vs NY)
$6,850
Annual tax savings
$150K Salary (vs NY)
$10,500
Annual tax savings
$200K Salary (vs NY)
$15,000
Annual tax savings
The Real Costs Most People Miss
Florida's tax savings are real, but so are these costs. Factor them into your decision:
Hurricane Insurance: $550/month ($6,600/year)
Florida's homeowners insurance is the highest in America—4x the national average. Flood insurance adds another $1,200-$2,400/year. This is the hidden cost that erases housing savings for many buyers.
Hurricane Season (June-November)
Six months of tropical storm risk annually. You'll need hurricane shutters, an emergency plan, and mental preparedness for evacuations. It's manageable but real.
Hot & Humid Summers (May-October)
90°F+ with 80%+ humidity for 5 months. AC runs constantly—expect $200-$300/month electricity bills in summer. It's not just "warm," it's oppressive.
The Math Still Works for Most
If you're renting (avoiding insurance costs) or earning $100K+ (maximizing tax savings), Florida usually makes financial sense. Homebuyers need to run detailed numbers.
Ready to Calculate Your Florida Savings?
Get your personalized analysis. See exactly how much you'll save in taxes and cost of living.