Moving to Florida: A Guide to Costs, Cities, and Home Buying

If you have been thinking about moving to Florida, you are not alone. People relocate to Florida for a lot of reasons, including career opportunities, warmer weather, and a lifestyle that makes it easier to spend time outdoors year-round. The key is choosing the right area for your day-to-day life and building a budget that matches the reality of where you want to live.

This guide covers the big topics that matter most when you are relocating to FL: cost of living basics, taxes, climate, moving tips, and what to know about buying a new construction home. 

Florida can be a great value compared to many high-cost states, but costs still vary a lot by region, commute, and lifestyle. When you plan your budget, it helps to break things into a few categories.

Housing is usually the largest line item. Florida has a wide mix, from low-maintenance townhomes close to city centers to larger single-family homes in master-planned communities. Your monthly payment can look very different in a coastal area versus a growing suburb, so it is smart to choose your target city first, then shop neighborhoods within it.

Air conditioning is a real part of Florida life, especially in summer, so utilities can be higher during warm months. Many buyers like the idea of new construction because modern building practices and energy-efficient features can help support comfort and potentially reduce energy use over time. Dream Finders Homes highlights energy-efficient features as a benefit of buying new. 

Taxes are a major reason many people move to Florida. Florida does not have a state income tax, and the state constitution forbids it, which is one reason Florida often appeals to people relocating from higher-tax states. 

You will still want to plan for other taxes, including:

• Sales tax: Florida’s general state sales tax rate is 6%, and local surtaxes may apply depending on the county. 

• Property taxes: Property taxes vary by county, and Florida offers homeowner benefits like the homestead exemption and the Save Our Homes assessment limitation for eligible primary residences. 

A quick tip if you are relocating to FL: if you plan to make Florida your primary residence, learn the local rules and deadlines for filing for exemptions in the county where you buy.

When people say they want to relocate Florida, what they usually mean is they want a specific version of Florida. Big city energy, beach-town pace, family-friendly suburbs, golf and outdoor living, or easy access to travel and entertainment. Here are the main Florida markets to consider.

Jacksonville offers a mix of city convenience and laid-back coastal living. It is known for its beaches, access to outdoor activities, and a spread-out layout with many distinct areas that can fit different budgets and lifestyles. Dream Finders Homes builds in the Jacksonville market, including surrounding Northeast Florida communities for both families and retirees. 

Why people like it

• More space for the money compared to some larger Florida metros

• Easy access to the Atlantic coast, plus rivers and parks

• Options for townhomes, single-family homes, custom homes and active adult communities

Good fit for

Buyers who want a balanced lifestyle with beaches, commuting options, and a variety of neighborhoods to choose from, especially if you want to stay in Northeast Florida.

Orlando is more than theme parks. It is a growing, dynamic metro with a diverse economy and an active calendar of events, dining, and entertainment. If you are moving to Florida for a career change or you want a central location with easy access to weekend trips in every direction, Orlando can be a strong choice. Dream Finders Homes builds new homes in Orlando and surrounding communities. 

Why people like it

• Central location for day trips to both coasts

• Major attractions, sports, and entertainment

• A wide range of neighborhoods, from established areas to newer communities

Good fit for

Anyone who wants an active metro area with lots to do, plus the flexibility of being within driving distance of multiple Florida destinations.

Tampa Bay continues to be one of Florida’s most in-demand regions, with a mix of waterfront views, sports, dining, and an outdoor lifestyle. Dream Finders Homes builds in the Tampa market and points to communities in growing surrounding areas like

Lakewood Ranch, Parrish, and Land O’Lakes. 

Why people like it

• Pro sports, nightlife, and a strong food scene

• Beaches and boating within reach

• Suburban growth areas that can offer newer homes and amenities

Good fit for

Buyers who want access to the Gulf Coast lifestyle with a blend of city options and suburban communities.

If your ideal Florida life includes a more relaxed pace while still staying connected to major cities, the Treasure Coast is worth a look. Dream Finders Homes has communities in Port St. Lucie, including Brystol North at Wylder and Reverie at Solaeris coming soon. 

Why people like it

Coastal feel without the intensity of the largest metros

• Easy access to beaches, golf, and outdoor recreation

• A growing area with new-home opportunities

Good fit for

Buyers who want a quieter day-to-day lifestyle and new construction options in a region that continues to expand.

Southwest Florida is all about sunshine, water views, and a slower rhythm that many people associate with the Florida dream. Dream Finders Homes’ Southwest Florida communities serve areas like Punta Gorda and Alva, with communities including

Creekside Run at Babcock Ranch and Turnleaf, plus future offerings. 

Why people like it

• Laid-back lifestyle with access to beaches and boating

• Golf and outdoor activities

• A strong “vacation-at-home” feel in many communities

Good fit for

People who want a relaxed coastal lifestyle, retirees, or remote workers who want to prioritize outdoor time and a calmer pace.

Florida is warm and sunny, but it is smart to prepare for the full picture.

• Summers are hot and humid, and afternoon thunderstorms are common.

• Winters are mild, which is a big reason many people move to Florida.

• Spring and Fall are the perfect Florida weather months.

• Hurricane season runs from June through November, so it is wise to plan ahead with a basic home and storm readiness checklist.

Practical moving tip: if you have flexibility, many movers and employers find shoulder seasons helpful for scheduling, and you may find more availability for moving services and home tours.

Relocating does not have to feel chaotic if you plan in phases.

1. Pick your target metro first, then narrow to neighborhoods. Your commute, school preferences, and lifestyle goals will matter more than a statewide “best place” list.

2. Budget for the “first month” expenses. Think utility deposits, moving supplies, temporary housing if needed, and basic setup costs.

3. Plan your Florida timeline. If you are switching jobs, leasing temporarily, or buying new construction, map out realistic milestones for tours, financing, and move-in.

4. Build a short list of must-haves. For example: a first-floor primary suite, home office, garage space, or low-maintenance living.

5. Schedule trips with purpose. If you can, combine community tours with drive-time tests. Visit in the morning and evening to understand traffic and daily routines.

If you are ready to relocate Florida and buy, new construction can be a great way to get modern layouts, today’s design preferences, and the benefit of a home that is brand new.

Here is a simple path many buyers follow:

Step 1: Get clear on budget and financing

Start with a realistic monthly payment goal and get pre-qualified early. This helps you move faster when you find the right home or homesite.

Step 2: Decide between quick move-in and build-from-the-ground-up

Many buyers like quick move-in homes if they need a faster timeline. Others prefer choosing a homesite and selecting finishes. Dream Finders Homes offers both community options and quick move-in inventory in Florida markets. 

Step 3: Tour communities and compare lifestyle

When you tour, look beyond the model home. Check the drive to grocery stores, schools, and major roads. Ask about community amenities and what is planned nearby.

Step 4: Personalize where it matters

One of the biggest advantages of buying new is the ability to personalize your space. Dream Finders Homes emphasizes flexibility and the ability to personalize your home, with support like a design studio experience. 

Step 5: Understand the timeline and the process

New construction has milestones like contract, design selections, pre-drywall walkthroughs, and closing. Ask your sales counselor for a clear roadmap so you can plan your lease end date, movers, and utilities.

Moving to Florida can be a fresh start, whether you are chasing sunshine, opportunity, or a lifestyle that feels more you. The best move is the one that fits your daily life, not just a highlight reel. If you are relocating to FL and want to keep your search focused, start with the markets most appeals to you, then narrow to the community style and home features that match your goals. Dream Finders Homes has communities all over Florida to fit any lifestyle you are looking for.