Top 10 Reasons to Move to Florida
Each year, more Americans pack up and head to Florida—and in 2025, that trend shows no signs of slowing down. With warm weather, economic growth, and no state income tax, Florida continues to attract retirees, families, and remote workers alike.
Explore the top reasons why Florida remains one of the most popular states to relocate to in 2025.
Florida Does Not Have a State Income Tax
One of the biggest benefits of living in Florida is the lack of a state income tax, which allows residents to keep more of what they earn. Instead, the state collects revenue through a 7% sales tax and a 5% county-level tourist tax on short-term rentals and hotel stays.
Once you establish residency, you’ll be glad to let Florida’s 140+ million annual tourists help pay your share of taxes.
Florida Has Great Year-Round Weather
Known as the “Sunshine State,” Florida averages 250 sunny days per year. The year-round temperatures average 72°F in South Florida and 67°F in the north, making it ideal for outdoor living.
Popular outdoor activities include:
Kayaking and paddleboarding on the Intracoastal Waterway
Tennis, pickleball, and golf
Fishing and boating off Florida’s coasts
Florida Offers Reasonably-Priced Real Estate & Cost of Living
Despite rising interest rates, Florida’s housing market remains resilient. As of May 2025, the average home price is $389,000—only 5.9% above the national average of $368,000.
Many new residents are relocating from higher-cost states like New York, New Jersey, and California, where housing prices can be 35% to 130% above the U.S. average.
To learn how Florida's home prices compare to other states, visit our Cost of Living in Florida page.
Florida Has a Very Strong Economy & Employment Market
Florida boasts the 4th largest economy in the U.S., with a Gross State Product (GSP) of $1.70 trillion. In 2024 alone, Florida welcomed 142.9 million tourists, a new record.
Top industries include:
Tourism & Hospitality
Real Estate & Development
Defense & Homeland Security
Aerospace & Aviation
To learn more about Florida’s growing industries, visit our Florida's Major Industries & Largest Companies page.
Florida Has Many Amusement & Theme Parks
Florida is home to 8 of the “Top 20” amusement parks in the country and 3 of the “Top 20” water parks worldwide. Many parks offer resident discounts and accommodations for extended stays.
Top Amusement Parks
Top Florida Water Parks
Florida is a Great State to Retire In
In 2025, Florida ranks as the #1 state to retire in, according to WalletHub, based on affordability, quality of life, and healthcare access.
Top retirement destinations include:
Florida also ranks #1 in the U.S. for population age 65+, with over 21% of residents in this demographic.
Florida Offers Many Festivals and Outdoor Events to Attend
Thanks to its warm climate, Florida hosts hundreds of events throughout the year. Popular activities include:
Farmers markets
Outdoor concerts
Art and craft festivals
Antique car shows
Polo matches
Sand sculpting competitions
Florida is Home to Many Professional Sports Teams
Florida is a hub for professional sports, with teams in every major league. Sports fans can cheer on:
NFL Teams
MLB Teams (Spring Training)
NBA/NHL Teams
Florida Offers Endless Attractions & Day Trips to Explore
No matter where you live in Florida, attractions and day trips are always within reach.
East Coast Highlights
Central Florida Highlights
West Coast Highlights
Final Thoughts on Relocating to Florida
Whether you're moving for financial freedom, sunny weather, or a more active lifestyle, Florida offers compelling advantages. Just be sure to consider location, hurricane preparedness, and the local job market before making your move.