Florida has long been one of the most popular states for people looking to start a new chapter. With miles of coastline, warm weather year-round, and an unbeatable mix of attractions and cultural diversity, the Sunshine State offers a lifestyle that’s hard to match. Whether you dream of living in a Miami high-rise, a waterfront Fort Lauderdale home, or a peaceful Palm Beach neighborhood, the decision to move to Florida comes with opportunities and its share of challenges.
At Our Family Moving & Storage, we’ve spent over 15 years helping families and businesses relocate across South Florida and beyond. From packing and storage to navigating hurricane season, our licensed and insured team understands what it takes to make a Florida relocation smooth and stress-free. In this guide on moving to Florida, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before you load the truck.
Why People Move to Florida
Everyday life in Florida blends year-round sunshine with a culture centered on the outdoors. There are many reasons people are moving to Florida, but these top motivators come up again and again:
- Tax Advantages – Florida is one of the few states with no state income tax, which can save residents thousands per year. Property taxes vary by county but are generally competitive compared to many other parts of the U.S.
- Lifestyle and Outdoor Activities – The state offers year-round opportunities for boating, golfing, fishing, and simply enjoying the beach. Florida’s climate makes it possible to live an active outdoor life in every season.
- Strong Job Market – Florida’s economy is growing, with opportunities in tourism, healthcare, finance, technology, and trade. Major metro areas like Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville are hiring across industries.
- Diverse Communities – With influences from Latin America, the Caribbean, and cultures worldwide, the Sunshine State is one of the most culturally rich places to live in the U.S.
- Attractions and Entertainment – From Walt Disney World and Universal Studios to local festivals and live music, Florida is home to an endless list of activities and places to live near world-class attractions.
Did you know? Fort Lauderdale is known as the “Yachting Capital of the World” with over 50,000 registered yachts and 300 miles of navigable waterways.
Pros and Cons of Living in Florida
The Pros
- Warm climate year-round with mild winters.
- Over 1,300 miles of coastline and easy access to beaches.
- No state income tax and generally favorable business regulations.
- A wide variety of places to live in Florida, from big cities to quiet coastal towns.
- A thriving real estate market and a steady influx of new residents.
The Cons
- Hurricanes and Tropical Storms – Hurricane season runs from June through November, and homeowners must prepare accordingly.
- High Humidity and Heat – Summers can be intense, especially in South and Central Florida.
- Traffic and Congestion – Popular areas like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa see heavy traffic, especially during peak tourist and snowbird seasons.
- Higher Cost of Living in Premium Areas – Cities like Miami Beach and Palm Beach have housing prices well higher than the national average.
Things to Know Before You Relocate
Florida Traffic
Traffic is a lifestyle factor in Florida. Miami’s I-95 corridor, Fort Lauderdale’s seasonal congestion, and Orlando’s theme park traffic can add significant time to your commute. Many people moved here for the lifestyle, but underestimate how traffic patterns change during events like Art Basel or the Fort Lauderdale Boat Show.
Hurricanes and Bipolar Weather
The weather in Florida can change quickly. Sunny mornings may turn into intense afternoon thunderstorms. Hurricane season means keeping a close eye on forecasts and having a storm plan in place. If you’re moving to a new Florida home, be sure to review county evacuation zones and secure hurricane insurance if needed.
Florida Wildlife and Home Readiness
Moving to Florida means you’ll be sharing your environment with unique wildlife from iguanas and geckos to alligators and marine life. Pest control is a must in many areas to prevent issues with termites or palmetto bugs (cockroaches).
Utilities and Services
Each area of Florida has different utility providers. Set up electricity, water, trash, and internet service before your moving date. In some gated or HOA communities, utilities may already be included.
Moving to Florida Checklist
Pre-Move Planning
- Research places to live in Florida and visit neighborhoods in person if possible.
- Hire a licensed and insured Florida moving company with experience in long-distance and local moves.
- Get quotes and leave a budget for storage if your move will be phased.
Administrative Tasks
- Update your driver’s license within 30 days of establishing residency.
- Register to vote in your county.
- Transfer bank accounts, prescriptions, and medical records.
Packing & Storage
- Use climate-controlled storage for items sensitive to heat and humidity.
- If you’re short on time or unsure of the process, using packing services can lighten the load.
- Consider moving non-essential items ahead of your main move-in date.
Top Tips for a Stress-Free Florida Move
There are many top tips to make your move stress-free. To begin, the best time to move is from October to April. These months offer cooler temperatures and avoid the peak hurricane season. If you move between May and September, especially during the summer months, consider the heat and schedule heavy lifting for morning hours.
One of the best moving tips is to prepare for traffic. It’s wise to plan around events, since big gatherings like the Miami Boat Show or spring break can cause traffic gridlock. In general, Florida is constantly growing, and commutes can take longer.
If you’re moving into a condo, book high-rise access early by reserving freight elevators and loading docks well in advance. You also need to remember to budget for extras, since tolls, parking permits, and HOA move-in fees can add up quickly.
We offer full South Florida moving services, from local relocations to storage solutions.
Popular Cities and Regions in Florida
Florida offers a wide variety of places to call home, each with its own unique appeal.
Miami is known as the cultural capital. There is a vibrant nightlife, cultural diversity, and strong international business connections, making it a major financial hub. Fort Lauderdale is favored for its boating canals, beaches, and proximity to Miami while maintaining its own laid-back lifestyle and a growing downtown area. Also in South Florida is Boca Raton in Palm Beach County. The entire county is known for being affluent, providing luxury living with upscale dining and shopping.
There are also great areas in Central and Northern Florida. Orlando attracts families and professionals alike, thanks to its theme parks, entertainment industry, and both a growing tech sector and an increasing healthcare job market. Tampa has become a hub for business and family living, offering a balance of strong communities and outdoor activities while exuding a Gulf Coast charm. Jacksonville provides affordable housing, a large job market, and miles of coastline.
Though the cities listed above are some of the most popular regions, there are other beloved areas across the state, such as Tallahassee, which is not only the capital of the state but also the home of Florida State University. Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and Naples are each on the West Coast of Florida, with stunning beaches and an ever-growing retiree population. Regardless of which area you pick, you can’t go wrong when you relocate to a beautiful city in the Sunshine State.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Florida
When’s the best time to move to Florida?
One of the best tips for moving is to avoid the craziness. Most moves happen between October and April, which avoids summer heat and hurricanes. This means the best time to move is between May and September, when it is out of season.
Do I need hurricane insurance?
Many coastal homes require windstorm or flood coverage. Check local regulations and talk to your insurer to confirm if you must get hurricane insurance.
What’s the cost of living in Florida?
The cost of living varies by city. While some areas are affordable, others (like Miami Beach) are well above the national average.
Do movers in South Florida offer storage?
Yes, many Florida movers provide climate-controlled storage for short or long-term needs.
How can I make a long-distance move easier?
To make a long-distance move easier, plan at least 8 to 12 weeks ahead, especially if you’re relocating from out of state.
Make Your South Florida Move Easy With Our Family Moving & Storage
Whether you’re moving to Florida for a beachfront condo in Fort Lauderdale, a family home in Boca Raton, or a high-rise in downtown Miami, Our Family Moving & Storage is here to help. Our South Florida movers are experts in handling every detail (from packing and loading to transport and storage) so you can focus on enjoying your new life in the Sunshine State. Call 954-453-1111 or request your free quote online today. Let us simplify your Florida move with the care, expertise, and personal service we’ve been providing for over 15 years.
