If you are much of a summer and beach person, there are many things in Florida to astonish you. Located in the southeastern part of the US, the Sunshine State is the third most populated state while the second state in terms of growing population rapidly. So, there you have many reasons to consider moving to the state. However, humidity levels, storms, floods, etc. are common in the Sunshine State. If you are visiting here for a family outing or an ex-pat opting to settle here, there are many things to keep in mind. Why not understand some of the pros and cons of living in Florida first?
Being a haven for retirees, the state also has lively places for people of all ages. Known for its diverse wildlife, marvelous beaches, theme parks, and retirement communities, the state has much to offer to everyone. The following are some advantages of living in Florida worth noting.
There are at least 180 beaches along the 1200-miles coastline of the state. And if you are troubled by snowfall, you can spend your winter and have fun at the beaches here. From white sand beaches and crystal blue water to artificial reefs and coral rocks, there is something here for everyone.
If beach life isn't your thing, but you still want to take advantage of all that warm weather Florida offers, try visiting some inland springs or rivers instead. These areas provide plenty of opportunities for swimming, fishing, tubing, and much more.
Having no income tax to pay is one of the considerable advantages of living in Florida State. Staying free from income taxes allows you to save more of your money and spend it as you please instead of giving it to the government. The Sunshine State is a popular place to live where you can significantly reduce your yearly expenses. Also, the property and corporate taxes in urban areas are not much higher than in other states. If you want to live affordably without compromising your standard of living, consider Florida.
If you have planned your family trip, do visit the theme parks and wildlife. From hiking & swimming to kayaking, nature walks, and sports, there is something for everyone here. No matter how old you are, there's always something to do, as Florida is home to countless theme and amusement parks. In case you don’t remember, the Sunshine State has a range of festivals and special events throughout the year. Or if you are just here to have a sunbath, lay down on your favorite beachside and let the sun warm you.
From local growers to residents, the tropical warmth to mild winters both is likely enjoyable in the state throughout the year. The weather here allows residents to enjoy outdoor activities at any time of the year. Floridians can experience hot summer days at the beach or take a winter stroll through the streets. If you want to enjoy locally-grown food, do remember that the climate here is suitable for different types of fruits and vegetables all year round.
The state offers many job opportunities, excellent education through state-of-the-art colleges and universities, and a pleasant atmosphere ideal for work and leisure. The abundance of sunshine also contributes to a welcoming atmosphere, where you can connect with a friendly community and experience positive energy.
Florida has a thriving economy mainly due to tourism and industries such as international trade, agriculture, construction, technology, aerospace and aviation, and biomedical and life sciences. The thriving economy in Florida offers tons of job opportunities to hopefuls. It guarantees a financially stable environment, which is a great benefit for those who plan to reside and work in Florida.
Unfortunately, life here is not only sunshine and rainbows; you must take into account some cons of living in Florida before moving here:
Though the state is known for the summer season, there are a few things you need to keep in mind about the same. You may have to deal with extreme temperatures and humidity during the peak days of summer. This hot and humidity may be difficult to cope with sometimes. It would be impossible for you to stay outside for long periods due to soaring temperatures. Another problem you must be prepared for while living in Florida is bugs which are a result of increased moisture in the air.
The Sunshine State shares its ups and downs with hurricanes, thunderstorms, and rainfall. While the state experiences beautiful sunny days throughout the year, storms can roll in quickly. Hurricanes can also be a danger to life and property, with 2019 seeing ten tropical storms passing through the state. Rainfall can also be another big trouble to deal with in some parts of Florida reaching up to 54 inches per year. This much rainfall may easily cause flooding and other related issues disrupting daily activities in the state. Residents need to stay alert about weather conditions and prepare accordingly.
Florida's warm climate and various attractions make it one of the most popular states for tourists throughout the US. This can mean that overcrowded beaches or theme parks often have longer than usual wait times. If you are on a tour of the beaches and other sites in the state, remember, you may have to deal with bottlenecks like full parking, traffic snarls, and overcrowded locations. Florida is a great option for tourists after all.
Crime is, sadly, a harsh reality to deal with in Florida. According to Safe wise, the crime rate in the state is closest to the total national crime rate making Florida one of the riskiest states for residents. The higher crime rate is because of the lavishness of the state and people coming from diverse backgrounds. Unfortunately, these statistics are only part of the picture as they don’t include white-collar or cybercrime, which can also be high in some areas.
Living in Florida has its downsides, including the state's low healthcare rankings. The rankings are not good for patient care, access to care, and affordability. As a result, it can be challenging for people who need medical attention or affordable healthcare solutions. Consider healthcare options if you have pre-existing conditions or chronic health conditions only.
Also, note that the United States does not have free universal healthcare so you will need insurance or to pay out of pocket for care. Since more retirement communities reside here, Florida has a higher demand for healthcare services. Ultimately, a large population availing healthcare services means, crowded hospitals and long waiting periods.
Conclusion
After understanding more of the pros and cons of living in Florida, it’s easy for you to conclude that every person's experience in Florida is different. For those looking for hot weather and an array of recreational activities, there are plenty of great reasons to call Florida home. On the other hand, a high cost of living and the abundance of humidity can be dealbreakers for many potential residents.
No matter what the case may be, moving to a new place will always come with unique challenges, and it's important to weigh all aspects before deciding if one should live in Florida. It is ultimately up to you as the potential resident to explore further what it would mean for your quality of life. Researching more about economic opportunities, the culture surrounding areas, and more could clarify whether moving here is for you in terms of long-term satisfaction and peace of mind.
Florida has been ranked the second-best state to retire in 2022, mainly because of its great weather and low tax rates. So, if you are searching for a place to enjoy your golden years, Florida is definitely worth considering.
Being ready for any disaster that could harm your property or home is important. Hurricanes, storms, and floods can cause severe damage and even fatalities.
Although the state is known for having a low cost of living, housing expenses are quite high, with both rent and sale prices exceeding national averages. Despite this, the state's overall cost of living is roughly equivalent to the national average.
Florida's warm climate makes it perfect for outdoor activities like running, swimming, cycling, and hiking. These activities can help lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure and improve your heart health.
