Florida, also known as the Sunshine State, draws people from all over the world. Although the intrinsic reasons for living in Florida might differ from person to person, the extrinsic reasons, such as the theme parks, stunning beaches, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural diversity, remain the same.
Whether you are looking to move to or are already living in Florida but looking to switch cities, we will cover every aspect so that by the end of this article, your choice of the best place to live in Florida is all clear.
Living in Florida’s West Coast Vs East Coast
If you are having trouble deciding whether to live on Florida's east or west coast, do not worry—we have you covered.
Here is a step-by-step comparison to help you make your choice.
The Coastal Scenery:
West Coast | East Coast |
---|---|
Stunning sunsets | Picturesque sunrises |
Calm waters | Vibrant ocean waves |
White sandy beaches | A mix of sandy and rocky beaches |
Weather Patterns:
West Coast | East Coast |
---|---|
Milder temperatures | Hotter and more humid summers |
Less humidity | More susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms |
Hurricanes less frequent |
Outdoor Activities:
West Coast | East Coast |
---|---|
Boating | Surfing |
Fishing | Paddleboarding |
Snorkeling | Beachcombing |
Access to nature reserves and wildlife habitats | Mangrove forests and barrier islands |
Cultural Scene:
West Coast | East Coast |
---|---|
Laid-back vibe | Bustling urban centers |
Artsy communities like Sarasota and Naples | Vibrant nightlife |
Theatres, galleries, and museums | Diverse dining options |
Cultural festivals |
Cost of Living:
West Coast | East Coast |
---|---|
More affordable housing and cost of living | Major cities tend to have higher costs of living |
The cost is even lower, especially in smaller towns and cities | More job opportunities and amenities are available. |
Community Atmosphere:
West Coast | East Coast |
---|---|
Slower-paced lifestyle | Cosmopolitan atmosphere |
Close-knit communities | Diverse neighbourhoods |
Focus on relaxation and outdoor leisure activities | Bustling cities |
Florida is the only place in the world where both alligators and crocodiles live in the wild together.
Living in North Florida Vs. South Florida
The debate about living in North Florida vs. South Florida has always been a topic of interest, but what if I tell you that this debate is unbeatable?
This is because the answer to winning this debate lies solely in the preference of the debater. Therefore, we have listed a few factors that will help you decide for yourself.
North Florida
- Climate: Milder winters than in South Florida; summers are still hot and humid but less extreme.
- Culture: It blends Southern culture with influences from nearby states like Georgia and Alabama; it is generally laid-back and less cosmopolitan than South Florida.
- Lifestyle: Popular for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and freshwater fishing due to abundant forests, rivers, and springs; the cost of living in some areas is lower than in South Florida.
Best Places to Live in South Florida
Place | Description | Population |
---|---|---|
Miami | Known for its bustling urban environment, vibrant nightlife, and diverse cultural scene. | Approximately 470,000 |
Fort Lauderdale | Offers beautiful beaches, a thriving downtown, and a relaxed atmosphere compared to Miami. | Approximately 180,000 |
Boca Raton | Known for upscale neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and pristine beaches. | Approximately 100,000 |
Coral Gables | It features tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and a lively downtown with amenities. | Approximately 50,000 |
South Florida
- Climate: It has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, mild winters, and hot, humid summers. During the Atlantic hurricane season, it is prone to hurricanes.
- Culture: The population is diverse due to strong influences from Latin America and the Caribbean culture.
- Lifestyle: Prominent beach living with water sports, sunbathing, and boating opportunities. There is also a wide range of entertainment options, including shopping, dining, and arts and cultural events.
Best Places to Live in Central Florida
Place | Description | Population |
---|---|---|
Orlando | Famous for its theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, it offers diverse neighborhoods. | Approximately 290,000 |
Tampa | Located on the Gulf Coast with a vibrant cultural scene, waterfront attractions, and a growing job market. | Approximately 400,000 |
Winter Park | The suburb of Orlando is known for its charming downtown, scenic parks, and cultural attractions, such as the Morse Museum. | Approximately 31,000 |
Sarasota | Situated on Florida's Gulf Coast, it is known for its beautiful beaches, cultural venues, and thriving arts community. | Approximately 58,000 |
One interesting fact about Central Florida is that it's home to the Kennedy Space Center, NASA's primary launch site for human spaceflight missions.
Key Takeaways
- Factors like cost of living, job opportunities, and community atmosphere play a significant role in choosing the right place to live.
- If you are planning to live in Miami, Florida, get ready for fun times exploring theme parks, relaxing on beaches, or checking out the nightlife.
- To ensure a move with trusted moving companies, read "Top Movers in Miami, FL."
- When moving to or within Florida, research and compare moving companies based on services, pricing, and customer reviews on reputable Sites Like” " My Good Movers.""
10 Best Places to Live in Florida
Here is a pick of the Top Ten Best Places to Live in Florida:
- Miami: It has a vibrant urban environment, diverse culture, nightlife, and beautiful beaches.
- Orlando: Famous for its world-renowned theme parks, diverse neighborhoods, and job opportunities.
- Tampa: A Gulf Coast city that has a rich cultural scene, waterfront attractions, and a thriving job market.
- Jacksonville: It is Florida's largest city and has a blend of urban amenities, outdoor recreation, and historic charm.
- St. Petersburg: It is known for its stunning waterfront views, vibrant arts scene, and laid-back coastal lifestyle.
- Fort Lauderdale: Fort Lauderdale has beautiful beaches, a thriving downtown, and a relaxed atmosphere compared to Miami.
- Sarasota: Sarasota is situated on Florida's Gulf Coast and is known for its beautiful beaches, cultural venues, and arts community.
- Boca Raton: Boca Raton is known for its upscale neighborhoods, top-rated schools, and pristine beaches.
- Naples: Naples is a paradise for outdoor lovers with luxurious amenities, golf courses, and picturesque beaches.
- Winter Park: A charming suburb of Orlando known for its historic downtown, scenic parks, and cultural attractions.
How Can You Choose the Right Place to Live in Florida
If you have made up your mind to relocate to Florida, but the one thing that is making you worry is "How to choose the right place to live in Florida.
Well, the answer lies in your personal needs and preferences. To be clearer, here are some steps you can follow to choose the right place to live in Florida.
- Consider your lifestyle: Consider what activities and amenities are important to you. If you enjoy outdoor recreation, you might prefer a location near beaches, parks, or hiking trails. If you are more into cultural events and nightlife, a city like Miami or Orlando might be a better fit.
- Research the cost of living: Different areas of Florida can vary widely in terms of housing costs, taxes, and other expenses. Make sure to compare the cost of living in various cities or neighborhoods to ensure it aligns with your budget.
- Climate considerations: Florida's climate varies from region to region. The southern part of the state experiences warmer temperatures year-round compared to the northern regions. Consider whether you prefer a subtropical climate with mild winters or if you are okay with the occasional hurricane threat in coastal areas.
- Job Market: If you are moving to Florida for work, research the job market in your field and consider proximity to potential employers. Cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa are known for their diverse industries and job opportunities.
- Quality Education: If you have children, research the quality of schools in the areas you are considering. Look into public and private education options in your area.
- Community and safety: Take the time to visit neighborhoods and get a feel for the community atmosphere. Consider factors like crime rates, healthcare, and proximity to amenities like grocery stores, restaurants, and public transportation.
Best Places to Live in Florida for Families
With endless attractions and welcoming communities, which family-friendly city in Florida would be the perfect setting for your family? Below is a list of the best places for families to live in Florida.
City | Top-rated Schools | Family-friendly Neighborhoods | Recreational Activities | Access to Parks and Cultural Venues | Community Atmosphere |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Orlando | 8/10 | 7/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 |
Tampa | 8/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 |
Jacksonville | 7/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 |
St. Petersburg | 8/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 |
Sarasota | 9/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 |
Moving with a family can be a challenging experience; this is why professional movers in Florida provide various services, including:
Best Place to Live in Florida with Kids
Finding the best place to live with kids is not easy. On average, parents spend about 6.5 hours per week more on childcare than they did in the 1960s. This is why you must consider many things, with childcare and quality education being the priority.
Below is a list of the Best Places to Live in Florida with Kids.
City | Safe Neighborhoods (%) | Family-Friendly Events (events per year) | Quality Healthcare (hospitals per capita) | Childcare Options (childcare facilities per 1,000 children) | Proximity to Schools (average distance in miles) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Orlando | 92% | 200 | 3.5 | 15 | 1.5 |
Tampa | 89% | 180 | 3.2 | 14 | 1.6 |
Jacksonville | 91% | 190 | 3.4 | 13 | 1.7 |
St. Petersburg | 93% | 210 | 3.6 | 14 | 1.4 |
Sarasota | 95% | 220 | 3.8 | 16 | 1.3 |
Florida's growing real estate market and population growth have created a significant demand for professional moving services statewide. That is why it is necessary to find the best state-to-state, especially with kids.
Best Places to Live in Florida for Young Adults
As a young adult, moving to a new city involves looking for vibrant nightlife, career prospects, affordable housing, outdoor activities, and an artistic community.
But you must look no further, as we have the right pick of the Best Places to Live in Florida for Young Adults.
City | Vibrant Nightlife | Job Opportunities | Affordable Housing | Outdoor Activities | Cultural Scene |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Miami | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✖️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Orlando | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Tampa | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Gainesville | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
St. Petersburg | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Best Affordable Places to Live in Florida
Did you know that, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, Florida's median home value is lower than the national average? This makes it attractive for those who are looking for affordable housing options.
Let's break down some of the best affordable places to live in Florida.
City | Affordable housing (%) | Cost of Living (Index) | Job Opportunities (per 1,000) | Outdoor Activities (number of parks) | Community Atmosphere (satisfaction rate) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Gainesville | 85% | 90 | 800 | 15 | 8.5/10 |
Jacksonville | 80% | 92 | 850 | 20 | 8/10 |
Lakeland | 88% | 88 | 780 | 12 | 8.2/10 |
Tallahassee | 82% | 91 | 820 | 18 | 8.3/10 |
Pensacola | 81% | 90 | 830 | 16 | 8.4/10 |
To put the icing on the cake, here are the Best Cheap Moving Companies that will complement your budget.
Best Places to Live in Florida in Terms of Perks and Communities
The two most important factors in living are amenities and communities. Below are some of the best places to live in Florida in terms of amenities and communities.
City | Perks | Community Features |
---|---|---|
Miami | From nightlife to diverse dining, Miami's got it all. |
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Orlando | Theme parks and outdoor adventures await in Orlando, including Universal Studios, Walt Disney World, and SeaWorld. |
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Tampa | Waterfront fun and cultural events are staples in Tampa. |
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Sarasota | Pristine beaches and artsy scenes define Sarasota. |
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St. Petersburg | St. Pete has a waterfront lifestyle, cultural landmarks, and many different recreational activities. |
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Top Safest Places to Live in Florida
Some of Florida's safest cities have crime rates that are up to 70% lower than the national average?
Whether you are a young adult living alone or someone with a family, safety is on everyone's top list. This is why we have made a list of the Top Safest Places to Live in Florida.
City | Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents) | Percentage of Safe Neighborhoods | Police Presence | Community Engagement |
---|---|---|---|---|
Weston | 5.1 | 95% | High | Active neighborhood watch |
Parkland | 4.2 | 98% | High | Community events |
Marco Island | 5.3 | 93% | Moderate | Neighbourhood patrols |
Naples | 6.7 | 91% | Moderate | Crime prevention programs |
Coral Gables | 6.1 | 92% | High | Police-community partnerships |
Best Places to Live in Tampa, Florida
Are you interested in making Tampa, Florida, your home? Below is a list of the Best Places to Live in Tampa, Florida.
Neighborhood | Key Features |
---|---|
Hyde Park | Historic homes, boutique shopping, nightlife |
Westchase | A-rated schools, parks, community events |
Downtown Tampa | Museums, Riverwalk, access to sports |
Seminole Heights | Craft beer scene, local art galleries |
Davis Islands | Waterfront homes, yacht club, upscale vibe |
Tampa, Florida, is home to the world's longest continuous sidewalk Tampa Bay's iconic Bayshore Boulevard has a stunning 4.5-mile-long sidewalk, making it an ideal spot for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying breathtaking bay views.
Best Places to Live in Florida Panhandle
Did you know that the Florida Panhandle is home to some of the most pristine and unspoiled beaches in the United States?
With sugar-white sands and crystal-clear waters, these beaches consistently rank among the top in the nation for their natural beauty. If you are a nature lover, then we have the list of the Best Places to Live in the Florida Panhandle.
City | Beautiful Beaches | Outdoor Recreation | Family-friendly | Cultural Attractions | Affordable Housing |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pensacola | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✖️ |
Destin | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✖️ |
Panama City Beach | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✖️ |
Gulf Breeze | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Santa Rosa Beach | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✔️ | ✖️ |
Best Places to Live in Florida as a Tourist
Florida consistently ranks as one of the most visited states in the United States, with over 130 million tourists visiting each year, making it one of the top tourist destinations in the world.
If you plan on visiting Florida as a tourist this year, too, we have created a list of places with it all.
City | Beaches | Theme Parks | Cultural Attractions | Nightlife | Outdoor Activities |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Miami | 9/10 | 8/10 | 9/10 | 9/10 | 8/10 |
Orlando | 6/10 | 10/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 | 6/10 |
Key West | 8/10 | 5/10 | 8/10 | 6/10 | 9/10 |
Sarasota | 7/10 | 6/10 | 8/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 |
St. Augustine | 6/10 | 5/10 | 9/10 | 6/10 | 7/10 |
Average Cost of Living in Florida
According to recent data from the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC), Florida's overall cost of living is about 3% higher than the national average, Depending on factors like location and expenses such as housing, transportation, and healthcare.
Florida has no state income tax, which means residents keep more of their earnings, making living expenses relatively cheaper than in states with income taxes.
Cost of Living Item | % Compared to the National Average | Cost in Florida (USD) | National Average (USD) |
---|---|---|---|
Overall | +3% | $3,000 | $2,900 |
Groceries | +2.8% | $400 | $390 |
Healthcare | +2.3% | $300 | $293 |
Transportation | +12.6% | $200 | $178 |
Utilities | +1.3% | $150 | $148 |
Housing | +5.4% | $1,200 | $1,135 |
Education | -2.1% | $500 | $512 |
(Note: This is just an estimation; the actual cost might differ depending on the place in Florida)