Florida sounds like a dream, but is it the right place to call home?
With year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, and no state income tax, Florida can seem appealing.
But consider more before packing your bags.
- Can your income cover the cost of living in Florida?
- Will you find a good job?
- What does the Florida housing market look like?
- Which city best fits your family, career, or lifestyle?
A sunny destination only feels like home when your budget and lifestyle fit together.
Living in Florida depends on where you settle and what matters most to you. Before moving to another state, it is important to understand the everyday costs and trade-offs.
And if you are still figuring out where to move in the USA, let's see whether Florida has what you're looking for before you move.
- Moving to Florida at a Glance
- Florida Relocation Quick Facts
- Pros and Cons of Living in Florida
- Florida Population and Migration Trends
- Best Places to Live in Florida
- Compare Florida's Major Cities
- Cost of Living in Florida
- Taxes and Insurance in Florida
- Where Are the Best Job Opportunities in Florida?
- Crime and Safety in Florida
- Florida Weather and Climate
- Healthcare in Florida
- Schools and Colleges in Florida
- Transportation and Commuting in Florida
- Is Florida Right for Your Situation?
- How Much Does It Cost to Move to Florida?
- Best Moving Companies for Your Move to Florida
- FAQs
- Our Research and Data Process
Moving to Florida at a Glance
Is Florida a Good Place to Live?
Yes, if you enjoy warm weather, outdoor activities, and access to larger job markets. Just remember that housing, insurance, and everyday costs vary widely by city.
Is Moving to Florida Worth It?
It can be, especially if the lifestyle and tax benefits fit your plans. But before deciding, make sure your income can comfortably cover housing, insurance, and other expenses.
Who Is Florida Best Suited For?
Retirees, families, remote workers, young professionals, and anyone who enjoys beaches, boating, and year-round outdoor activities may feel right at home.
Who May Not Enjoy Living in Florida?
If you dislike hot, humid summers, hurricane risks, busy roads, or high insurance bills, Florida might take some getting used to.
Florida Relocation Quick Facts
| Category | Quick Facts |
|---|---|
| Capital | Tallahassee |
| Largest Cities | Jacksonville, Miami, Tampa, Orlando, St. Petersburg |
| Population | 23.46 million |
| Population Growth | +8.9% since 2020 |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time (ET) and Central Time (CT) |
| Climate Type | Humid subtropical in much of the state |
| Basic Living Cost | $42,711/year after tax |
| Median Home Value | $359,000 |
| Median Rent | $1,669/month |
| State Income Tax | 0% individual state income tax |
| State Sales Tax | 6% general state rate |
| Property Tax | Varies by county, property value, and local millage rates |
Pros and Cons of Living in Florida
Pros
- No individual state income tax.
- Warm weather and plenty of sunshine.
- Beaches, parks, boating, and outdoor recreation.
- Job opportunities across several major industries.
- A range of lifestyles, from busy cities to quiet towns.
- Numerous retirement and recreational communities.
- Access to major airports and international travel connections.
Cons
- Homeowners and flood insurance can be expensive.
- Long, hot, and humid summers.
- Hurricanes, flooding, and severe thunderstorms.
- Housing costs can be high in popular metro areas.
- Traffic and car dependency in many communities.
- Tourism can bring crowds and seasonal congestion.
- Living expenses vary widely by city.
Florida Population and Migration Trends
There is always one question that is worth asking before anything else: Are people actually choosing to move there?
Population trends tell you a lot about a state. They can reveal where jobs are growing and which cities people believe offer the best quality of life.
How Many People Live in Alabama?
Alabama is home to 5.19 million people. That makes it one of the country's mid-sized states, which means you get access to major cities without the crowds you'll find in places like Florida or Texas.
Best Places to Live in Florida
Florida continues to attract people looking for better opportunities, warmer weather, and a fresh start. These cities stand out for their population growth, jobs, income, housing, education, and lifestyle.
Orlando
A mix of jobs, entertainment, and family-friendly suburbs makes it a popular choice. Its population reached 333,888 in 2025, up 8.4% since 2020.
Tampa
A lively waterfront city with careers in healthcare, finance, and business services. Its metro supported approximately 1.56 million jobs in 2026.
Jacksonville
Offers beaches, spacious neighborhoods, and a wide range of job opportunities. The metro had around 803,800 jobs in 2026.
Cape Coral
Great for people who enjoy waterfront living and quieter neighborhoods. Its population grew 21.8% since 2020, reaching 236,264 in 2025.
Miami
Ideal for those who enjoy city life, diverse cultures, and international business. Its metro supported about 2.97 million jobs in 2026, although housing can be costly.
Palm Coast
A quieter coastal option with growing residential communities. Its population reached 109,886 in 2025, up 23.2% since 2020.
Compare Florida's Major Cities
| City | Population | Growth | Basic Monthly Cost | Median Home Value | Median Rent | Median HH Income |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville | 1.02M | +7.2% | $3,421 | $293.7K | $1,465 | $69,872 |
| Miami | 489.8K | +10.8% | $3,818 | $518.1K | $1,758 | $62,462 |
| Tampa | 413.6K | +7.3% | $3,591 | $420.4K | $1,701 | $75,475 |
| Orlando | 333.9K | +8.4% | $3,706 | $394.1K | $1,747 | $72,336 |
| Port St. Lucie | 268.1K | +30.9% | $3,553 | $369.2K | $1,937 | $80,648 |
| St. Petersburg | 264.0K | +2.2% | $3,591 | $371.1K | $1,663 | $75,192 |
| Cape Coral | 236.3K | +21.8% | $3,724 | $373.5K | $1,858 | $78,104 |
| Tallahassee | 204.9K | +4.4% | $3,177 | $294.4K | $1,293 | $57,409 |
| Fort Lauderdale | 188.7K | +3.3% | $3,736 | $486.7K | $1,854 | $83,130 |
| Lakeland | 125.5K | +11.5% | $3,292 | $249.4K | $1,395 | $64,185 |
Cost of Living in Florida
The latest BEA data puts Florida's price index at 103.4, which means overall prices are 3.4% above the U.S. average.
Housing Costs
The Florida housing market varies widely depending on where you settle. Homes in Miami can be expensive, while inland cities give you more room for your money.
Housing is one of Florida's biggest budget considerations.
Florida's typical home value is about 2.5% above the national level, so finding an affordable home comes down to choosing the right city.
| Housing Expense | Latest Cost |
|---|---|
| Typical home value | $375,361 |
| Median sale price | $384,600 |
Everyday Monthly Costs
Florida vs. the U.S. Average
Taxes and Insurance in Florida
Florida has no individual state income tax, which is great news for your paycheck. But property taxes, sales taxes, and home insurance can still add up, especially in coastal areas.
| Expense | Current Rate or Cost |
|---|---|
| State income tax | 0% |
| State sales tax | 6% + local surtax |
| State grocery tax | 0% on most groceries |
| Effective property tax rate | About 0.78% |
| Social Security benefits | State tax-exempt |
| Homeowners insurance | About $237/month |
| Flood insurance | Property-specific; separate quote needed |
Florida's Overall Tax Burden Compared With Nearby States
Florida's 6.27% overall state and local tax burden is among the lowest in the country in 2026.
| State | Overall Tax Burden | Property | Income | Sales & Excise | Difference vs. Florida | Per $100K Income |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | 6.27% | 2.52% | 0% | 3.74% | Baseline | Baseline |
| Georgia | 8.15% | 2.68% | 2.51% | 2.97% | +1.88 pts | +$1,880 |
| Alabama | 7.93% | 1.40% | 2.17% | 4.36% | +1.66 pts | +$1,660 |
| South Carolina | 7.49% | 2.56% | 1.86% | 3.07% | +1.22 pts | +$1,220 |
| Tennessee | 6.21% | 1.60% | 0% | 4.61% | −0.06 pts | −$60 |
How Expensive Is It to Live in Florida?
Here's what you may need to cover basic expenses without stretching every paycheck.
| Household | Living Wage / Benchmark | Basic Monthly Budget | Required Annual Income / Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| One adult | $24.09/hour | $3,559 | $50,117 before taxes |
| Couple, both working | $16.09/hour each | $4,914 | $66,917 before taxes |
| Family of four | $26.85/hour each | $8,331 | $111,714 before taxes |
| Retiree, single renter | Elder Index benchmark | $3,228 | $38,736 basic-needs estimate |
| Student | University budget | $2,870 | $25,830 academic-year cost |
Where Are the Best Job Opportunities in Florida?
Florida's job market offers plenty, especially in healthcare, finance, tourism, technology, and logistics. But opportunities vary by city, and online hiring demand was down 3.4% year over year in 2026.
Florida's Top Career Hubs
Top career hubs by pay. Average annual pay across all occupations, by metropolitan area.
| Career Hub | Strong Career Areas | Average Annual Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Miami | Finance, international trade, healthcare | $67,184 |
| Tampa | Finance, technology, healthcare | $66,477 |
| Jacksonville | Logistics, finance, healthcare | $65,707 |
| Orlando | Tourism, technology, entertainment | $61,901 |
| Tallahassee | Government, education, healthcare | $59,571 |
Which City Fits Your Career?
| City | What You'll Work In |
|---|---|
| Miami | Finance, international business, healthcare, or hospitality |
| Tampa | Technology, banking, healthcare, or professional services |
| Orlando | Tourism, aerospace, entertainment, or technology |
| Jacksonville | Logistics, transportation, finance, or healthcare |
| Tallahassee | Government, education, public administration, or healthcare |
Crime and Safety in Florida
Florida has many communities with relatively low crime, but safety can vary widely from one neighborhood to another.
Is Florida a Safe Place to Live?
Yes, Florida has many communities with relatively low crime. In 2025, FBI estimates show around 261 violent crimes and 1,176 property crimes per 100,000 residents, both below U.S. averages.
Florida Violent and Property Crime Trends
Florida's estimated crime rates improved in 2025. Violent crime fell around 5.2%, while property crime declined 16.1% compared with 2024.
| Crime Measure | 2025 Rate per 100K | Change From 2024 | Compared With U.S. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime | 261 | −5.2% | Lower |
| Property crime | 1,176 | −16.1% | Lower |
| Overall crime | 1,437 | −14.3% | Lower |
| Murder | 3.2 | Declined | Lower |
| Robbery | 36.5 | Declined | Lower |
| Burglary | 130 | Declined | Lower |
Safest Cities and Communities in Florida
| Community | Violent Crime per 100K | Property Crime per 100K | Recent Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Longboat Key | 0 | 414 | Low reported violent crime |
| Gulf Breeze | 14 | 315 | Low reported crime |
| Parkland | 22 | 562 | Low violent crime |
| Sanibel | 27 | 506 | Low violent crime |
| Weston | 50 | 428 | Relatively low property crime |
Road Safety and Traffic Fatalities
Florida's roads remain busy, but traffic deaths are trending downward. NHTSA reported 3,138 deaths in 2024, with an estimated decline to 3,047 in 2025.
Florida Weather and Climate
Florida stays warm for most of the year, but sunshine isn't the whole story. Expect hot summers, regular afternoon rain, and mild winters. Prepare for hurricanes and flooding, especially near the coast.
Warm & sunny
The weather is usually pleasant, with warmer days and occasional thunderstorms as summer gets closer.
Hot & humid
Temperatures often reach the upper 80s and 90s. Humidity is high, and afternoon thunderstorms are common.
Warm with storms
The heat gradually eases, but hurricanes and heavy rain can still affect the state.
Mild & comfortable
Most areas enjoy mild weather. North Florida can get chilly, while South Florida stays warmer.
What Else to Expect
| Weather Event | Typical Conditions | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Snow | Very rare | Most of Florida never sees snow |
| Rainfall | Around 40–65 inches annually | Summer brings frequent rain, sometimes heavy enough to flood streets. |
| Thunderstorms | Common in warmer seasons | Expect afternoon rain, lightning, and occasional strong winds. |
| Tornadoes | Possible throughout the year | Severe thunderstorms and hurricanes produce tornadoes statewide. |
| Hurricanes | June through November | Strong winds, heavy rain, power outages, and coastal flooding. |
| Flooding | Coastal and inland areas | Coastal homes face storm flooding, while inland homes face flooding from heavy rain. |
Which Parts of Florida Face the Greatest Weather Risks?
- Coastal areas, including Miami, Tampa Bay, and the Florida Keys: Face greater risks from hurricane winds, storm surge, and coastal flooding.
- Central Florida, including Orlando: Gets frequent thunderstorms, lightning, and heavy rain that can cause local flooding.
- North Florida and the Panhandle: Experience hurricanes, severe thunderstorms, and colder winter weather, including occasional freezes.
Healthcare in Florida
Smaller towns have fewer options, so check how far you'll need to travel for treatment. Around 3% of Floridians live in nonmetro areas, where access to specialized care can be limited.
Best Hospitals and Medical Centers
Florida has several nationally recognized hospitals. These are worth knowing about if access to specialized care is a priority.
| Rank | Hospital | City | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Mayo Clinic Florida | Jacksonville | Heart care, cancer, complex treatments |
| #3 | UF Health Shands Hospital | Gainesville | Cancer, neurology, specialty care |
| #4 | Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital | Weston | Heart care, digestive diseases, surgery |
| #6 | Tampa General Hospital | Tampa | Trauma, heart care, transplant services |
| #1 | AdventHealth Orlando | Orlando | Cardiology, diabetes, maternity care |
Rural Healthcare Availability
Florida has major medical centers, but healthcare options have become more limited in rural communities.
| Rural Healthcare Measure | Latest Published Figure |
|---|---|
| Rural counties | 33 of 67 |
| Nonmetro residents | 669,616 |
| Share living in nonmetro areas | 3.0% |
| Rural hospitals | 20 |
| Critical Access Hospitals | 12 |
| Rural Health Clinics | 149 |
| Federally Qualified Health Centers in nonmetro areas | 107 |
| Rural Emergency Hospitals | 0 |
Schools and Colleges in Florida
The state's high school graduation rate reached a record 92.2% in 2025. It also focuses on college preparation, with more than 103,000 Florida College System dual-enrollment students in the latest reported academic year.
Best-Rated School Districts
If schools matter to your move, these districts lead Niche's 2026 Florida rankings.
| Rank | District | Niche Grade | Students |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | St. Johns County School District | A | 52,324 |
| 2 | Sarasota County Schools | A | 45,529 |
| 3 | Seminole County Public Schools | A | 63,934 |
| 4 | Martin County School District | A | 16,552 |
| 5 | Collier County Public Schools | A− | 48,252 |
Florida Colleges and Universities
Whether you're interested in a large university or a career-focused program, Florida offers plenty of options.
| University | Location | Known For |
|---|---|---|
| University of Florida | Gainesville | Research, engineering, business, medicine |
| University of Central Florida | Orlando | Engineering, hospitality, technology |
| Florida State University | Tallahassee | Business, education, law, arts |
| Florida International University | Miami | International business, hospitality, research |
| University of South Florida | Tampa | Healthcare, engineering, research |
Transportation and Commuting in Florida
You'll probably spend plenty of time behind the wheel in Florida. Most communities are built around driving, and traffic can get frustrating in larger cities like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando.
| Transportation Area | Florida Data |
|---|---|
| Main interstates | I-4, I-10, I-75, I-95, I-275, I-295, I-595 |
| Public transportation | Miami Metrorail and Metromover, Orlando SunRail and LYNX, Tampa HART, Jacksonville JTA |
| Walking and cycling | Easier in selected downtowns and beach communities |
| Busiest airport | Orlando International Airport (MCO) |
| Level 2 charging ports | 9,947 |
| DC fast-charging ports | 5,389 |
Do You Need a Car in Florida?
For most people, yes. Public transportation is available in some areas of Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, but having a car makes daily tasks, going to work, and traveling around Florida much easier.
Is Florida Right for Your Situation?
Moving to Florida With a Family
Yes, especially if you want warm weather, outdoor activities, and family-friendly neighborhoods. Jacksonville, Winter Garden, Oviedo, and St. Johns are worth comparing for schools, parks, housing, and healthcare.
Moving to Florida as a Young Professional
Absolutely, if your career fits the local job market, Tampa, Orlando, Miami, and Jacksonville offer opportunities in finance, healthcare, technology, tourism, and logistics.
Moving to Florida as a Single Person
Yes, particularly if you enjoy an active social life. Miami, Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Orlando have restaurants, entertainment, events, and places to meet people.
Moving to Florida for Retirement
Florida is a popular retirement choice for good reason. Sarasota, Naples, Palm Coast, and Cape Coral offer warm weather, recreation, and established retirement communities.
Moving to Florida for College
Yes. Gainesville, Orlando, Tallahassee, and Miami offer different college experiences, from traditional campus towns to busy metropolitan areas.
How Much Does It Cost to Move to Florida?
A full-service move to Florida costs between $1,813 and $9,234 for a 2–3-bedroom home.
The biggest price difference usually comes from where you're moving from.
Estimated Moving Costs to Florida
- Nearby State $1,813–$5,047Georgia to FloridaAbout 366 miles
- Mid-Distance Move $3,073–$7,193Texas to FloridaAbout 1,393 miles
- Cross-Country Move $4,386–$8,437California to FloridaAbout 2,704 miles
Moving Costs by Service Type
You have several ways to move your belongings to Florida. Full-service movers handle the heavy lifting, while moving containers let you pack and load at your own pace.
You can also rent a truck or hire movers just for loading and unloading.
| Moving Service | Estimated Cost for a 2–3-Bedroom Move | What You're Paying For | Detailed Cost Guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Service Movers | $1,813–$9,234 | Loading, transportation, unloading, and optional packing | Full-Service Moving Costs |
| Moving Containers | $848–$7,448+ | Container transportation; you handle packing and loading | Moving Container Costs |
| Rental Trucks | $746–$5,738 | Truck rental; fuel, tolls, and other driving expenses may cost extra | Moving Truck Rental Costs |
| Labor-Only Movers | $786–$1,294 | Help with loading and unloading; transportation arranged separately | Labor-Only Moving Costs |
Moving Cost to Florida from Your State
Pick the state you're moving from to see what a 2–3-bedroom move to Florida usually costs.
Note: These costs are estimates for moving a 2–3-bedroom home to Florida. Actual prices depend on your location, moving date, and services. Full-service, container, and truck rental costs are estimates, not final quotes. Labor-only rates are hourly for two movers and don't include transportation.
See moving costs from all 48 states
| Moving Route | Distance (Miles) | Full-Service Movers | Moving Container | Truck Rental | Labor-Only (2 Movers/Hour) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama to Florida | 546 | $4,203 | $1,770 | $725 | $139/hr |
| Arizona to Florida | 2,147 | $5,852 | $3,410 | $2,065 | $139/hr |
| Arkansas to Florida | 992 | $4,375 | $2,200 | $1,110 | $139/hr |
| California to Florida | 2,704 | $6,412 | $3,695 | $2,540 | $139/hr |
| Colorado to Florida | 1,965 | $5,807 | $3,065 | $1,875 | $139/hr |
| Connecticut to Florida | 1,241 | $4,815 | $2,515 | $1,255 | $139/hr |
| Delaware to Florida | 1,011 | $4,718 | $2,155 | $1,165 | $139/hr |
| Georgia to Florida | 366 | $3,430 | $1,890 | $694 | $139/hr |
| Idaho to Florida | 2,675 | $7,030 | $3,610 | $2,690 | $139/hr |
| Illinois to Florida | 1,184 | $4,685 | $2,375 | $1,250 | $139/hr |
| Indiana to Florida | 1,107 | $4,290 | $2,425 | $1,230 | $139/hr |
| Iowa to Florida | 1,394 | $4,950 | $2,530 | $1,530 | $139/hr |
| Kansas to Florida | 1,529 | $5,205 | $2,740 | $1,535 | $139/hr |
| Kentucky to Florida | 861 | $4,415 | $2,175 | $950 | $139/hr |
| Louisiana to Florida | 780 | $4,225 | $2,135 | $980 | $139/hr |
| Maine to Florida | 1,595 | $5,705 | $2,830 | $1,575 | $139/hr |
| Maryland to Florida | 949 | $4,684 | $2,135 | $1,080 | $139/hr |
| Massachusetts to Florida | 1,345 | $4,867 | $2,595 | $1,365 | $139/hr |
| Michigan to Florida | 1,391 | $5,085 | $2,600 | $1,380 | $139/hr |
| Minnesota to Florida | 1,783 | $5,205 | $2,890 | $1,700 | $139/hr |
| Mississippi to Florida | 730 | $4,160 | $2,035 | $875 | $139/hr |
| Missouri to Florida | 1,106 | $4,435 | $2,430 | $1,160 | $139/hr |
| Montana to Florida | 2,478 | $6,435 | $3,435 | $2,310 | $139/hr |
| Nebraska to Florida | 1,684 | $5,150 | $2,820 | $1,725 | $139/hr |
| Nevada to Florida | 2,654 | $6,020 | $3,900 | $2,380 | $139/hr |
| New Hampshire to Florida | 1,416 | $5,555 | $2,575 | $1,485 | $139/hr |
| New Jersey to Florida | 1,110 | $4,982 | $2,255 | $1,185 | $139/hr |
| New Mexico to Florida | 1,696 | $5,445 | $2,805 | $1,705 | $139/hr |
| New York to Florida | 1,151 | $4,943 | $2,507 | $1,279 | $139/hr |
| North Carolina to Florida | 657 | $4,329 | $1,920 | $765 | $139/hr |
| North Dakota to Florida | 2,092 | $6,195 | $3,195 | $1,990 | $139/hr |
| Ohio to Florida | 1,059 | $4,686 | $2,240 | $1,155 | $139/hr |
| Oklahoma to Florida | 1,267 | $4,665 | $2,410 | $1,290 | $139/hr |
| Oregon to Florida | 2,938 | $7,255 | $3,840 | $2,675 | $139/hr |
| Pennsylvania to Florida | 1,135 | $4,972 | $2,280 | $1,220 | $139/hr |
| Rhode Island to Florida | 1,224 | $4,350 | $2,565 | $1,405 | $139/hr |
| South Carolina to Florida | 498 | $4,024 | $1,705 | $685 | $139/hr |
| South Dakota to Florida | 1,829 | $5,870 | $2,995 | $1,795 | $139/hr |
| Tennessee to Florida | 718 | $4,175 | $1,960 | $820 | $139/hr |
| Texas to Florida | 1,393 | $5,133 | $2,455 | $1,345 | $139/hr |
| Utah to Florida | 2,372 | $5,625 | $3,565 | $2,285 | $139/hr |
| Vermont to Florida | 1,489 | $5,460 | $2,720 | $1,470 | $139/hr |
| Virginia to Florida | 807 | $4,273 | $2,120 | $950 | $139/hr |
| Washington to Florida | 3,062 | $6,964 | $4,015 | $2,845 | $139/hr |
| West Virginia to Florida | 921 | $4,315 | $2,215 | $1,055 | $139/hr |
| Wisconsin to Florida | 1,389 | $4,635 | $2,610 | $1,380 | $139/hr |
| Wyoming to Florida | 2,153 | $6,475 | $3,415 | $2,170 | $139/hr |
Get a Moving Estimate for Your New Home in Florida
Use our Moving Cost Calculator to enter your moving details and get a more specific estimate.
Best Moving Companies for Your Move to Florida
Your move to Florida starts with choosing a company that picks up your belongings from your current state and delivers them to your new home.
Look through Florida moving companies that handle interstate moves, and check their service areas, customer reviews, and experience with long-distance relocations.
Once you've shortlisted a few companies, compare them to see their prices, services, and ratings side by side. Ask for written quotes and check delivery dates and extra charges before booking. These details matter when you choose the right moving company.
Use a long-distance moving checklist to keep your packing, important documents, and pickup dates organized.
Check the companies listed below as you prepare for your move to Florida.
Top picks for you
View all ↗
Find Movers for Your Move to Florida From Another State
When Is the Best Time to Move to Florida?
Late fall through early spring is a good time to move to Florida. You'll usually avoid the worst summer heat and may find more movers available outside the busiest moving season. Once you've chosen a date, build your moving timeline around it so you have enough time to prepare.
Best Day and Time for Moving
Tuesday through Thursday, early in the morning, is a better choice. Midweek moves offer better availability, while an early start helps you avoid afternoon heat and thunderstorms.
FAQs
Our Research and Data Process
We created this guide to answer the common questions people have before moving to Florida. Most of the information comes from government agencies, official public records, and other primary sources. For information that changes more frequently, such as rent, home prices, insurance costs, and moving costs, we also use reliable first-party institutions and established market-data sources to provide the latest available information.
Data Sources Used
We prioritize primary and official sources whenever reliable data is available.
| Source Type | Approx. Share Used | Main Data Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Federal government sources | 46% | Population, employment, income, economic conditions, crime, weather, natural hazards, transportation, migration, energy, and road safety |
| State and local government sources | 26% | Taxes, schools, licensing, transportation, healthcare, public safety, and state-specific regulations |
| First-party institutions and market sources | 18% | Housing, rent, insurance, hospitals, universities, utilities, and moving costs |
| Reputable secondary sources | 10% | Rankings, comparisons, and supporting market context |
- Our public data sources commonly include: U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, FBI Crime Data Explorer, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Weather Service, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).
- For state-specific information, we use the Florida state agencies, county and city governments, public school systems, transportation authorities, public universities, and other official local institutions. Official state and local government websites can also be located through the USA.gov state and local government directory. USAGov
- For local public transportation data, we also use individual transit authorities and the Federal Transit Administration's National Transit Database, which provides profiles for reporting transit agencies across the country. Federal Transit Administration
How Data Was Compared
We make comparisons using the same source, time period, geographic level, and measurement method whenever possible. When a useful figure is not published directly, we calculate it from the underlying data. For example:
- Population growth = percentage change between two comparable population estimates
- Cost difference = state or city value compared with the relevant U.S. benchmark
- Tax difference = percentage-point or percentage difference between locations
- Crime rate = reported offenses adjusted for population
- Employment change = change in employment between comparable reporting periods
- Monthly cost = annual cost divided by 12 when only an annual figure is published
How Cities and Communities Were Evaluated
We do not evaluate cities based on a single statistic. Instead, we consider several factors that matter when choosing where to live:
| Factor | Weight |
|---|---|
| Jobs & income | 25% |
| Housing & living costs | 20% |
| Crime & safety | 20% |
| Schools & family needs | 15% |
| Healthcare | 10% |
| Transportation | 5% |
| Lifestyle & recreation | 5% |
How Local Experience Was Collected
We do not present invented firsthand experience as fact. Local context comes from official city and county governments, school districts, transportation agencies, hospitals, universities, economic-development organizations, public services, and resident-facing market data.
How Facts Were Checked
We check the latest available information before adding important statistics to a guide. For major topics such as population, employment, taxes, crime, education, transportation, weather, and public safety, we prioritize government agencies and other primary sources.
We also check repeated statistics throughout the guide so that the same metric uses the same value, year, definition, and source wherever it appears.
If two figures measure different things, such as median home value and typical home value, they are labeled separately rather than treated as the same statistic.
Data Limitations
Not every dataset updates at the same time. A 2026 article may still contain the latest official 2024 or 2025 data when that is the newest release available.
Market figures such as rent, home prices, insurance, and mover costs can also change faster than government statistics. These numbers should be treated as current benchmarks rather than guaranteed prices.
