8 Make-or-Break Pros and Cons of Retiring in Florida
It’s easy to think Florida is the best place to spend your golden years. Hello, sunshine and no state income tax.
But just like anywhere, there are advantages and disadvantages to retiring in the Sunshine State. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the key pros and cons of Florida retirement.
Pro: The Weather Is Ideal for Outdoor Lovers
One of the biggest draws of Florida is the weather. If you love sunshine, (mostly) warm temperatures, and spending time outdoors, then Florida might feel like paradise. The state is known for its tropical and subtropical climate, which means you’ll enjoy mild winters and hot summers.
Whether you like to play golf, go to the beach, or walk in nature, Florida’s weather makes it easy to enjoy an active lifestyle year-round.
The state’s warm weather also helps create a relaxed atmosphere, which is great for retirees looking to take it easy and avoid harsh winter conditions. If you move to Florida, you can forget about shoveling snow or worrying about icy roads. The sunny days are perfect for getting outside and soaking up some Vitamin D, which is known to have a positive impact on mood and health.
Con: High Cost of Living in Some Areas
While Florida has no state income tax, the cost of living can be high in certain parts of the state. Housing prices have all risen in Miami, Tampa, and Orlando, according to the New York Post. Miami’s prices alone increased 11.8% in 2024.
Whether you’re buying a home or renting, the prices in popular Florida areas are often much higher than in other parts of the country. This can be a challenge for retirees on a fixed income, especially if you plan to live in a major city.
Even outside the major cities, some regions of Florida are experiencing rising living costs due to increased demand for housing. While you might find more affordable options in less touristy areas, the overall cost of living can still be higher than in other states. It’s important to do research on different regions to make sure you find a place that fits your budget, as housing and healthcare costs can add up over time during retirement.
Pro: No State Income Tax
Another reason why Florida is a top choice for retirees (and those of working age, for that matter) is that there’s no state income tax. That means you can keep more of your retirement savings and income.
Social Security benefits, pensions, and 401(k) distributions aren’t taxed in Florida, which can make a big difference in your overall financial picture. For retirees who are living on a fixed income or just want to stretch their dollars further, this alone could be a reason to move to the Sunshine State.
Con: Hurricane Season
Hurricane season is an undeniable downside for many Florida residents. While you might think it’s no biggie to pack up an emergency bag on a whim or weather out a storm, people often feel differently when the genuine threat of potentially losing their home looms.
June through November is the official hurricane season in Florida, which is also when tropical storms may occur. These storms can cause serious damage to homes and property, and it’s something retirees need to be aware of when considering a move. While Florida has excellent disaster preparedness plans, the risk of hurricanes is something that can’t be avoided.
Retirees who aren’t accustomed to hurricane season may find it stressful, especially when it comes to preparing for potential evacuations and dealing with the aftermath. This is especially true in coastal areas where the risk of flooding and storm surge is high.
Pro: Beautiful Beaches and Natural Beauty
Florida is famous for its beaches, and for good reason. The state has some of the most beautiful coastlines in the United States, if we do say so ourselves, with miles of sandy shores and clear, blue waters.
Whether you like to relax on the beach, take a dip in the ocean, or just watch the waves crash, there are plenty of spots in Florida where you can enjoy the water. You just might find that living near the beach improves your quality of life from an emotional and physical health standpoint.
Besides the beaches, Florida is home to many national parks, nature reserves, and wildlife areas. From the Everglades to the Florida Keys, there’s always somewhere new to explore—on any day of the week as a retiree, of course.
Con: High Humidity and Heat
Florida is famous for its warm weather, but the heat can be a challenge for some retirees. The summer months can be scorching, with temperatures regularly reaching into the 90s, and the humidity can make it feel even hotter.
For retirees who aren’t used to extreme heat or have health conditions that make them sensitive to high temperatures, Florida’s summer weather can be tough to handle.
While the state’s warm climate is great for outdoor activities, the intense heat and humidity can lead to dehydration, sunburn, and exhaustion. It’s important for retirees to drink lots of water and take precautions during the hottest months of the year. If you’re not a fan of heat, this can be one of the biggest downsides to living in Florida, so it’s something to keep in mind before making the move.
Pro: A Retiree-Friendly Community
Some refer to Florida as the “retirement capital” of the U.S., and for good reason. There are many communities in the state that cater specifically to retirees. These 55+ communities offer various amenities, such as golf courses, swimming pools, and clubhouses, making it easy to meet new people and make friends.
A WalletHub study placed five Florida cities in the top ten retirement cities in America. They included, in order of most ideal for retirement:
- Orlando (1st place)
- Miami (2nd place)
- Tampa (4th place)
- Fort Lauderdale (5th place)
- St. Petersburg (8th place)
If you’re looking to connect with other retirees who share similar interests, Florida is the place to be. Whether you want to spend time with people who enjoy gardening, boating, or just relaxing, you’ll likely find a welcoming community that fits your lifestyle in Florida.
Con: Limited Public Transportation
While Florida is great for driving, it isn’t known for having excellent public transportation. If you rely on public transit, you’ll likely find that it’s limited, especially in more rural areas.
Many retirees prefer to have a car to get around, as cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, while relatively better on the public transportation front, still have limited bus and train systems. If you aren’t comfortable with driving or prefer public transportation, you’ll likely find Florida’s public transportation a disadvantage when weighing whether to move there during retirement.
If you plan to live in a more suburban or rural area of Florida, the almost guaranteed lack of transportation options will make it more difficult to get around. Therefore, having a car is essential for getting to appointments, shopping, and other activities in many parts of the state.
Florida City Ranks Among 30 Most Expensive Cities in the World
According to data, residents in one Florida city are shelling out more money than the rest of the Sunshine State. Can you guess which Florida city made the (unwanted) cut?
Florida City Ranks Among 30 Most Expensive Cities in the World
7 Types of Drivers You’ll Meet on I-95
If you’ve ever driven on Florida’s I-95, you know it’s more than just a highway—it’s an experience. With such a mix of locals, tourists, and commuters, you’re bound to encounter some unique driving styles. These are some of the most common types of drivers you’ll meet and how to deal with them safely.
7 Types of Drivers You’ll Meet on Florida’s I-95 (And How to Handle Them)
