Guide: Moving to Florida

Home to almost 20 million residents, Florida is an attractive destination for many due to its warm climate, great schools, abundant healthcare facilities, and diverse recreational activities. Each year, more people, especially from the northern United States, are drawn to the state. If you're considering relocating to Florida, or are already in the process, you'll need to choose a region and type of housing, establish legal residency and obtain a driver's license, and adapt to Florida's unique weather and culture.

Choose the Florida region where you want to reside. Florida offers diverse regions, each with its own appeal. Whether it's the Gulf Coast beaches of the Panhandle, the Southern charm of North Florida, the attractions of Central Florida including Disney World, the vibrant culture of South Florida, or the arts and beaches of Southwest Florida, understanding these options will help you make the right choice for your lifestyle and preferences.

Choose the type of housing that suits your needs. When moving to Florida, especially in middle age, individuals often decide between buying or renting a home. While renting may seem more economical initially, purchasing a home can be a wiser long-term financial decision if you plan to reside there permanently. Alternatively, if you're considering a winter vacation home in Florida, renting for 4 or more months each year may be a better option.

Research housing costs in your desired area. Florida's popularity among retirees and seasonal residents can lead to higher real estate prices. Before relocating, conduct online research to determine which areas of Florida are within your budget. For instance, the median home price in Miami exceeds $300,000 USD, while in the Panhandle, it's under $140,000 USD. Additionally, establishing a reasonable housing budget will be advantageous.

Find a suitable home in your chosen location. Once you've selected a place to live, begin searching for a specific residence. Contact a local real estate agency and explain your out-of-state move, requesting assistance in finding homes within your budget. During discussions about potential properties, inquire about flood or hurricane zones. You can also explore online listings, such as those on Zillow's Florida page: https://www.zillow.com/fl/

Research job opportunities in key industries.

If you're not already employed in Florida, you'll need to search for job prospects. Start by exploring major sectors in the state, such as tourism, aviation, Disney, healthcare, and international trade, which offer significant employment opportunities.

Utilize a staffing agency to secure suitable employment. Job hunting from another state can be challenging. Engage with a Florida-based staffing agency to facilitate your job search in the state. They'll assess your professional background and skills to match you with suitable job opportunities in Florida.

Explore employment opportunities within the state government. Florida offers various job openings across different professional domains within its state government, including healthcare, legal, management, and social services. Visit the state's online job portal to browse available positions and apply for jobs.

Refer to the State of Florida's online resources for residency guidance. Addressing the legal aspects of relocating to Florida is essential. Access the state's online portal to learn about residency requirements, such as voter registration, in-state employment, and proof of domicile declaration. Additionally, you'll find information on insurance coverage, address changes, and business needs.

Acquire a Florida driver's license. If you intend to drive in Florida, obtaining a state driver's license is mandatory. Visit any Florida DMV office with proof of insurance, Florida residency, and the out-of-state vehicle title. Complete the Driver's License paperwork online before your visit and ensure your vehicle's VIN number is inspected by an authorized officer. You have 30 days from accepting Florida employment, registering to vote, or enrolling your children in a Florida school to obtain your driver's license.

Complete the voter registration process in Florida. To establish residency in Florida, you must register to vote in the state. Visit the online voter registration portal at: https://registertovoteflorida.gov/en/Registration/Index. Ensure you have acquired a Florida driver’s license or other valid identification before registering, and have the last four digits of your SSN on hand.

Officially register your vehicle in the county of residence. Head to a local Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) office to complete vehicle registration. Bring along your car insurance card, proof of identification, and the vehicle title. Expect a $25 registration fee and a vehicle inspection during the process.

Prepare for Florida's hot and humid climate. Upon relocating to Florida, brace yourself for sweltering summer days characterized by high humidity. While coastal cities may enjoy a slight cooling breeze from the ocean, inland areas, especially in Central Florida, often endure intense heat and humidity. Expect frequent, heavy summer storms, with the rest of the year typically featuring dry and mild weather, occasionally punctuated by winter cold snaps.

Take proactive measures to safeguard your home against hurricanes. Invest in hurricane shutters or ensure existing ones are in good condition. Strengthen your roof and install hurricane-resistant glass. Stock up on essential supplies like non-perishable food and water, and familiarize yourself with evacuation procedures if your area is prone to hurricanes or flooding. While apartments and condos may provide some hurricane preparation, homeowners should take individual precautions.

Protect your skin from the sun's strong rays. If your skin is sensitive to sunlight, take extra precautions by using sunscreen with high SPF levels. Wear a hat when spending extended periods outdoors to shield yourself from harmful UV rays. Additionally, combat the abundance of mosquitoes in Florida by using insect repellent to prevent bug bites.

Explore Florida's array of theme parks and attractions. Central Florida is renowned for its numerous theme parks, offering endless entertainment options beyond Disney World. From the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station to Universal Studios, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Embrace these attractions as part of your regular Florida experience.

Practice patience on Florida's roads. With a large influx of tourists and elderly drivers, road congestion is common. Stay calm and adapt to the slower pace of traffic. Florida's expansive geography makes it ideal for road trips, so embrace the opportunity to explore the state by car.

Learn Spanish to enhance your experience. Especially beneficial in South Florida, where the Latino population is significant, learning Spanish can enrich your cultural immersion. Being bilingual will not only help you communicate more effectively but also provide a deeper connection to the local community.

Explore Florida's recreational activities. Spend a day at one of its many beaches, offering sunbathing and a variety of water sports. Experience the thrill of an airboat ride through the Everglades or venture to the Florida Keys, with Key West being a highlight where you can snap a photo at the famous marker indicating the proximity to Cuba.