How to Live the Florida Dream
If you’ve ever thought of settling down on the sandy shores of Florida’s 1,350 miles of coastline, there’s no better time to take the plunge. People quarantined at home in cold climates during the pandemic are now embracing opportunities to work remotely and are calling the Sunshine State home in increasing numbers! The Coffey Group is your go-to expert when it comes to finding the ideal Florida home.
Why Florida?
Florida truly has something for everyone. Its amazing climate, opportunities for outdoor adventures of all kinds, and its multitude of housing options make it a destination like no other. People vacation in Florida for a reason – and now they’re relocating there for the same purpose! From a diverse population and blending of cultures to fabulous theme parks, beautiful beaches, and a wide range of recreational opportunities, Florida truly offers something for everyone. According to News Press, there’s also no state income tax for residents, which means your hard-earned dollar stretches that much farther.
Business and Industry
If you’re a business owner or considering relocation to Florida for job opportunities, the state is home to a number of high-profile industries. According to the Florida Economic Development Council, leading the pack is aerospace and aviation, life sciences, manufacturing, security, and information technology. Major employers include Publix, Darden Restaurants, Jabil, and SFN Group. Unemployment in Florida is approximately 4.5%. The median household income in 2019 was just over $55,000.
Housing Options
When it comes to real estate, Florida offers everything from affordable rentals, condos, and townhouses to single-family residences and beach-front mansions. While some major metro areas can get a bit pricey, the majority of the state has a cost of living that’s below the national average, and rural areas of the state can be exceptionally affordable. If you’re a real estate investor, Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville are three hot rental markets to consider. Economic growth and quality of life are noted as the top two reasons people relocate to Florida.
Educational Opportunities
According to U.S. News & World Report, Florida ranks #3 in the nation in terms of education, an important factor to consider if you’re raising a family and want access to quality schools. The University of Florida, University of Miami, Florida State, and the University of South Florida are well-respected institutes of higher education. While Florida is an exceptional destination for retirees, with exceptional active adult communities and superior healthcare, the state has a very diverse population. While people think of seniors when they think of Florida, the median average age is actually 43.
Entertainment Options
In addition to theme parks like Disney World and Busch Gardens, water sports, and Everglades tours, Florida is also home to 10 professional sports teams and a number of minor league teams. There are also arts and culture in Florida, including the Ernest Hemingway Museum and the Salvador Dali Museum. If you’re a science buff, you can even visit the Kennedy Space Center and the Orlando Science Center. Music, theater, golf, and a bustling nightlife and food scene abound in major Florida cities.
Making the Move
If you’ve decided to move to Florida, there are a few things to add to your “to-do” list. You’ll want to find a home that fits your family’s needs. A qualified expert real estate agent can be an exceptional resource when it comes to finding a home, moving, and getting established. If you’re moving from out of state, weigh the cost benefits of packing and moving versus selling your belongings and buying new household goods when you arrive. If you’re relocating from a cooler climate with pets, consider investing in a cooling mat to help them adjust to Florida’s warm, sunny climate.
Getting Settled
Once you get moved into your new home, you’ll want to establish utilities, enroll kids in school, start your job search, if necessary, and identify new service providers. These typically include health care professionals, a bank, vet, pharmacy, auto care technicians, and a landscaper and swimming pool company if you’ve totally immersed yourself in the Florida lifestyle! You’ll also want to get familiar with your new city, explore new eateries, find favorite shopping centers and entertainment venues. Join local community groups or houses of worship to fully integrate into your new hometown.
Florida is fast becoming not only the vacation destination of choice but the relocation destination of choice as well. If you’re considering a move to Florida, The Coffey Group has grown to be one of the most successful real estate teams in Sarasota, Florida!
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