14 Triggers Driving Floridians Out of the Sunshine State

I was a Florida transplant from New York, and now I’m a former Florida resident. While my departure from the Sunshine State had little to do with Florida itself, my time there gave me firsthand experience of why people chose to leave.

Here are some of the top reasons Florida residents are saying goodbye to the Sunshine State.

High Cost of Living

While Florida has no state income tax, that doesn’t mean it’s cheap to live there. Housing costs have soared in recent years.

According to Zillow, the average home value in Florida is just shy of $390,000—well above the national average of approximately $357,000.

Rent isn’t much better. Combine that with rising property taxes, insurance rates, and everyday expenses, and the cost of living in Florida can feel overwhelming.

It’s no wonder many Floridians are finding it cheaper to live in other states.

Heat and Humidity

Florida is hot—and I’m not just talking about the real estate market. For many, the constant heat and humidity can feel overwhelming.

Summers often see temperatures climbing into the 90s with humidity levels that make it feel like you’re breathing in water.

It’s not just uncomfortable; it’s exhausting to some Floridians.

The sticky weather can also make everyday life more challenging.

Take, for instance, skyrocketing air conditioning bills. Some folks understandably miss the crisp air and changing seasons that other states offer.

Hurricanes and Extreme Weather

Living in Florida means dealing with hurricanes—and lots of them.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Sunshine State experiences more hurricanes than any other state in America.

Between the preparation, evacuations, and damages, hurricane season can feel like a never-ending headache.

Even if you dodge a direct hit, the constant threat of extreme weather can be stressful.

Add in flooding, storm surges, and power outages, and some residents decide it’s just not worth the risk.

Homeowners Insurance Woes

Speaking of costs, homeowners’ insurance in Florida is through the roof. It’s easy to see why, given the Sunshine State’s high rate of hurricanes and other natural disasters.

According to the Insurance Information Institute, Florida’s average annual premium is nearly three times the national average.

Some companies are even pulling out of the state altogether, leaving homeowners scrambling to find coverage.

For many, the stress and expense of insuring their property are big reasons to leave Florida.

Traffic and Overcrowding

Florida’s population boom has led to packed highways and crowded cities. Metro areas like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando are experiencing severe traffic problems.

According to INRIX, Miami ranks as one of the most congested cities in the country.

The overcrowding doesn’t stop at the roads. Beaches, parks, and attractions are often jam-packed.

For some Florida residents, what used to feel like a paradise now feels like chaos.

Rising Sea Levels

Climate change isn’t just a future problem for Florida—it’s happening now. Rising sea levels are putting coastal areas at risk.

According to the Florida Climate Center, sea levels along Florida’s coast have risen about 8 inches since 1950.

This issue has led to increased flooding, even on sunny days.

Some Florida residents are worried about the long-term effects on their homes and communities, leading them to seek higher ground elsewhere.

Lack of Public Transportation

If you don’t have a car in Florida, getting around can be tough.

Public transportation options are limited compared to other states. Cities like Miami and Tampa have some systems in place, but they’re not nearly as extensive or reliable as those in places like New York or Chicago.

This car dependency isn’t just inconvenient; it’s expensive. Gas, insurance, and maintenance costs add up.

For those used to more walkable cities, Florida’s transportation challenges can be frustrating enough to move away.

Bugs, Bugs, and More Bugs

If you’re not a fan of creepy crawlies, Florida is surely a place you want to leave.

Mosquitoes, palmetto bugs (a fancy term for giant cockroaches), and fire ants are just some of the pests residents have to deal with.

The warm, humid climate makes Florida an ideal breeding ground for bugs.

While pest control services help, the sheer number of insects can be a daily nuisance for many.

Limited Job Opportunities

While Florida has a booming tourism industry, it’s not always the best place for career growth. Many jobs are in lower-paying fields like hospitality and retail.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Florida’s average annual wage is below the national average.

Professionals in tech, finance, and other high-paying industries often find better opportunities in states like California, New York, or Texas.

Political Climate

Florida’s political scene has become a hot topic in recent years.

Some Floridians feel the state’s policies and leadership don’t align with their personal beliefs. From debates over education to environmental policies, the political divide is growing.

For some Florida residents, the political climate is a significant factor in deciding to leave. They’re seeking places where they feel their values are better represented.

Healthcare Challenges

Florida’s healthcare system isn’t winning any awards. According to the Commonwealth Fund, the state ranks 41st in the nation for healthcare access and affordability.

Many residents struggle to find quality care close to home.

For retirees who moved to Florida for its reputation as a retirement haven, these challenges can be especially disappointing.

Some end up deciding to move to states with better healthcare options.

Tourism Overload

Living in a tourist hotspot like Florida isn’t always as fun as it sounds.

Millions of visitors flock to the state each year, especially during peak seasons. This influx can make everyday activities like grocery shopping or driving a hassle.

For locals, dealing with the constant crowds and noise can get old fast.

Wildlife Encounters

Florida’s natural beauty comes with some “wild” neighbors. Alligators, snakes, and invasive species like pythons are common in many areas.

While these creatures are fascinating, they can also be dangerous.

For some Florida residents, the risk of running into a gator on their morning walk or finding a snake in their yard is a little too close to nature for comfort.

Moving to a less wildlife-heavy area feels like a safer choice.

Culture Shock

Florida’s unique blend of cultures isn’t for everyone. While some people love the diversity, others find it hard to adjust.

The state’s laid-back lifestyle, mix of urban and rural areas, and transient population can make it difficult to feel rooted.

For those who grew up in other parts of the country, Florida can feel like a world away from what they’re used to.

Some people miss the traditions, food, and community of their home states, prompting them to head back.

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