6 Reasons Why People Are Leaving Florida

Why Are People Moving Out of Florida?

Florida, known for its sunny weather and beautiful beaches, has long been a popular destination for people looking to relocate. Many dream of beachside winters and sunshine all year round.

After spending many years as a top relocation destination, a notable shift has occurred, with many people packing their bags and moving out of the state. This has led people to wonder, "Are people still moving to Florida?"

Are People Still Moving to Florida?

Despite the increasing number of people leaving, Florida continues to attract new residents.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Florida lost 500,000 of its residents in 2022 but gained over 1 million people from all parts of the globe. While this is a staggering loss in one year, the large influx of migrations into the state kept Florida in the net positive.

The allure of no state income tax, a lower cost of living compared to some other states, and the lifestyle appeal still draw many each year. However, for some new Florida residents, things are not quite as they seemed.

After relocating, many "Florida transplants" packed up to find a new place to live, citing relentless heat, dangerous and frequent wildlife, and damaging hurricanes as their main complaints. Others have found a new, enjoyable lifestyle in the Sunshine State.

At the end of the day, relocatees across the globe are moving to Florida each year. However, the outflow of residents is becoming more prominent and harder to ignore. Why is Florida suddenly experiencing a high outflow of residents?

Why Are People Leaving Florida?

1. Insurance Crisis

One of the primary reasons people are leaving Florida is the rising costs and restrictions of home insurance.

In recent years, Florida has been hit by numerous hurricanes and other natural disasters, leading to increased insurance premiums and several insurance companies leaving the state entirely.

In 2022, Hurricane Ian resulted in nearly $21.4 billion dollars in insurance losses through 776,941 claims. In 2023, average annual property insurance premiums rose 42% to $6,000. The national average sits at just $1,700. This means Floridians pay over three times more on average.

If this was not bad enough, Florida also has the third-highest car insurance premium in the nation, with an average annual premium of $2,917. The national average is just $2,019.

Floridians are finding it increasingly difficult or impossible to afford these rising costs. Beyond just cost, home insurance has even deeper issues.

Large insurance companies have chosen not to renew or completely denied tens of thousands of policies due to the age of homeowner's roofs, even if they have years of life left in them.

This has led homeowners to resort to replacing roofs that are perfectly functioning just to be able to be insured or risk going without.

Home insurance companies have also resorted to risk-management demands, such as requiring tree removal within so many feet of the home, charging sky-high rates for screened patios or pool cages, and requiring a clean bill of health, plus wind mitigation testing, from a home inspector.

Not only are Floridians being required to spend hundreds of dollars on a home inspection just to apply for insurance, but they are often being required to spend thousands on landscaping removal or home repairs to mitigate home damage risk.

The financial strain of these rising costs has affected not only those looking to buy a home in the near future but also those with increasing mortgages from insurance costs or unforeseen repairs.

2. Increase in Natural Disasters

Florida's susceptibility to hurricanes, tropical storms, and flooding has always been a concern. However, the severity of these events has increased, making it a less attractive option.

While new research suggests we are not experiencing more frequent hurricane activity in a 10-year period of time than one hundred years ago, there is no denying that the intensity and size of hurricanes have grown.

According to recent research, major hurricanes (category 3 or higher) have doubled in the Atlantic Ocean since 1980.

Category 4 and 5 hurricanes making landfall are becoming a nearly every year occurrence in the U.S. Not only does this increase the risk of flooding, home and vehicle damage, and injuries, but it also significantly increases the costs of insurance and property taxes.

The increase in natural disasters is not just a financial burden due to insurance hikes but also a significant emotional and psychological strain. Residents are increasingly weary and stressed by the annual hurricane season, which brings with it the threat of evacuation, property damage, and even loss of life.

The 2023 hurricane season alone saw three major storms and seven hurricanes that caused billions in damage and displaced thousands of residents. The unpredictability and severity of these events are leading many to move to areas perceived as safer from natural disasters.

3. Housing Market/Property Taxes

With such a high influx of new residents in previous years, it is no wonder that the housing market in Florida has seen a boom. This housing boom has spiked property prices and taxes to new heights.

While this has been beneficial for sellers and the state economy, it has made homeownership unaffordable for many. The rising cost of living, coupled with high property taxes, has forced many residents to move to more affordable states.

Over the last five years, Florida's home prices have experienced an approximate 80% rise. Yet, the state still struggles to meet the national average. Based on data from 2022, Florida's average wage is only about 92% of the national average, despite its high home ownership costs.

Rising home prices have caused a surge in property taxes. Since property taxes are largely calculated based on the selling price of your home and the county's assessment of your home's value, inflated home purchase prices cause property taxes to soar.

Since many Florida homes are being purchased for significantly more than they were five or ten years ago, home insurance also increases substantially to cover the cost of replacing your home in case of damage or total loss.

For many, the dream of homeownership in Florida is becoming increasingly unattainable, leading them to explore more affordable housing markets in other states.

4. Land Development/Changing Scenery

Rapid land development has also changed the landscape of many parts of Florida. Once serene and picturesque areas are now congested with new developments built to make room for the many new residents each year.

This urbanization has led to increased traffic, loss of natural scenery, and a general decline in the quality of life, pushing some residents to look for better environments more closely matched to Florida's previous feel.

According to a new report by 1000 Friends of Florida, the state will lose nearly one-fifth of its remaining rural lands in 50 years if Florida continues to grow at its current pace.

This would result in the loss of crucial wetlands and forests that fight flooding, rising temperatures, and other threats from climate change and the destruction of habitats for many disappearing animals. It would ultimately remove 3.5 million acres total and erode the state's 33% agricultural land use.

While this growth brings economic benefits, many residents lament the loss of green spaces, wildlife habitats, and the natural beauty that once characterized their neighborhoods.

Additionally, the increased density has resulted in more traffic congestion, longer commutes, and a general sense of overcrowding. These changes have prompted many to seek out locations that offer a more balanced and less hectic lifestyle.

5. Population Congestion and Traffic

The significant population growth has resulted in severe congestion and traffic issues in major cities. Commuting times have increased, and the infrastructure is struggling to keep up with the growing demand.

Major highways and urban centers are often gridlocked, making daily commutes a frustrating and time-consuming experience. In cities like Miami and Orlando, the average commute time has increased by over 20% over the past five years.

Public transportation options are limited, and the existing road networks are struggling to accommodate the surge in vehicles. For many residents, the daily grind and anxiety of navigating congested roads is a compelling reason to consider relocating to areas with better infrastructure and less traffic.

6. Increasing Utilities and Temperatures

Utility bills in Florida have risen over 20% in the last 12 months and continue to fluctuate each year. This is partly due to the increasing temperatures but is mainly caused by rising electric rates. Water bills are on the rise as well, with costly new water plants being built in place of old and decaying ones.

Florida's climate has always been a double-edged sword: while the warm weather is a draw for many, the increasing temperatures are becoming a significant pain point in terms of cost.

Summers are hotter and longer, leading to higher electricity consumption as residents rely more on air conditioning.

The rising and frequently high temperatures not only cost residents significantly more but make it very difficult for some to leave the house or enjoy the outdoors. This can take a toll on quality of life.

Where are Floridians Moving to?

In the last few years, a significant number of Floridians have chosen to relocate to other states for a number of reasons. Here is a breakdown of where Floridians moved to the most in 2022.

Georgia

51,380 Floridians moved to Georgia, making up 10.49% of new residents who moved to another state. Georgia’s lower cost of living, scenic environment, and relatively affordable housing market make it an attractive destination for Floridians.

Texas

41,747 people from Florida moved to Texas, making up 8.52% of new residents that moved to another state. Texas offers a booming economy, no state income tax, and a lower cost of living, making it a popular choice for those leaving Florida.

North Carolina

North Carolina received 34,920 people from Florida, making up 7.13% of new residents who moved to another state. North Carolina’s growing job market, affordable housing, and attractive quality of life draw many former Floridians.

California

In 2022, 28,557 people from Florida moved to California, making up 5.83% of new residents who moved to another state. Despite California’s high cost of living, its diverse economy, cultural opportunities, and climate appeal to some seeking new opportunities.

Tennessee

Tennessee received 25,318 people from Florida in 2022, making up 5.17% of new residents who moved to another state. Tennessee’s lack of state income tax, affordable housing, and vibrant music and cultural scene make it an appealing destination for many leaving Florida.

A Glimpse at Florida's Changing Cities

Orlando

During the mid-2010s, Orlando was the most visited destination in the entire United States, amassing over 60 million visitors per year. While Disney World and Universal Studios have always made Orlando a popular tourist destination, it has become a focal point of further development in recent years.

The city’s population has increased by over 20%, leading to extensive urban development and a booming real estate market. This growth has caused property prices and rents to skyrocket, making it difficult for many residents to afford housing.

Additionally, the rapid expansion has led to increased traffic congestion, strain on public infrastructure, and a decline in the quality of life. Not too long ago, Orlando was ranked among the top 10 cities to live in. In 2024, it's ranked 8th in Florida and 52nd overall, with an obvious decline in happiness and affordability.

Sarasota

Sarasota has become a desirable location for retirees and those seeking a coastal lifestyle.

According to LinkedIn's 2024 Workforce Study, North Port-Sarasota is the fastest-growing city in the U.S. Sarasota was also marked as the number one housing market to watch in 2024.

With all this attention on what used to be a small community, property prices have increased dramatically, making it difficult for long-term residents and younger families to afford homes.

The influx of new residents has also led to changes in the community’s character. The loss of the small-town feel is prompting some residents to move to less crowded areas.

Okeechobee

What was once a very small agricultural town of ranching and orange groves has turned into a hub of development focus. In recent years, hundreds of acres of farmland have been sold to become housing communities.

Nearly all infrastructure in this town is built for two-lane, small-town navigation with no real way to create mass expansion. However, that has not stopped investors and real estate developers from proposing expansive community plans.

This 4,500-unit development plan, which includes a 100,000-square-foot hotel, could easily draw in an extra 15,000 residents per year, which equates to over one-third of Okeechobee's current population of 42,481.

With such a strong focus on Florida developments, small communities are losing their original luster, becoming flooded with new congestion, and causing an infrastructure crisis.

Moving Out of Florida: Choosing a Reliable Florida Moving Company

If you are one of many looking to leave Florida, choosing the right Florida moving company is your first step. Not only should you choose a moving company with decades of experience, but you will also want someone with a great reputation.

A reputable Orlando or Sarasota moving company, like Atlas’ Suddath Moving and Storage or Atlantic Relocation Systems agents, can not only ensure the safe and timely transport of your belongings but also provide peace of mind throughout the relocation process.

Here are some reasons why choosing reliable white-glove movers is essential for your relocation:

1. Safety and Security - Professional movers have the expertise to transport, pack, and handle your belongings safely. They use high-quality packing materials and techniques to prevent damage during transit.
2. Experience - Experienced movers can handle all logistics, packing, loading, and unloading efficiently. This allows you to focus on other aspects of your moving checklist and stay organized.
3. Insurance and Liability - Reputable Florida moving companies will offer insurance coverage for your belongings. In the unlikely event of damage or loss, this ensures you are compensated.
4. Familiarity - Choosing a local Atlas agent means your movers are familiar with your neighborhood and your city's traffic patterns. This is a huge advantage for mapping routes, unpredictable weather, city permits, or any other roadblocks that may come up.

As residents move out of Florida and continue to relocate elsewhere, professional Florida movers play an essential role in local, long-distance, or commercial moving with the full-service relocation experience you expect.

With over 75 years of expertise in packing, transportation, and logistics, local Atlas agents offer unique moving solutions for those beginning a new adventure.

Whether you are transitioning to a nearby area or taking on a cross-country relocation, you can count on our trusted movers to prioritize your belongings, your time, and your journey. Get your free quote today!