Florida is one of the most popular states in the U.S. for relocation, thanks to its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and lack of state income tax.
But while the Sunshine State may look like paradise from the outside, the reality of living there can be quite different.
From high insurance rates to relentless bugs, many transplants experience a dose of culture shock once they settle in. Before you pack your bags and head south, here are 12 Florida truths that might make you rethink your move.
1. The Job Market Isn’t as Easy as It Seems
Florida’s job openings may seem comparable to the national average, but access to well-paying jobs isn’t equal across the state.
Many of the higher-paying jobs are concentrated in major urban areas like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando places that are also some of the most expensive to live in.
If you end up settling in a smaller town or rural area, your options might be limited, and you could face long commutes just to get to work.
Pro tip: Research job opportunities in your industry before moving and consider the commute-to-pay ratio.
2. Welcome to Lovebug Season
Yes, lovebugs are real and they’re a real nuisance. These small black flies appear twice a year (spring and late summer), and they come in swarms.
They’re harmless, but they splatter all over your car, stick to your clothes, and can even clog your air conditioning vents. Cleaning up after them becomes part of your seasonal routine, whether you like it or not.
Fun fact: Lovebug guts are acidic and can damage car paint if not cleaned off quickly.
3. Mosquitos Rule the Night
Florida’s warm, wet climate is a breeding ground for mosquitos. The state is ranked the worst in the nation for mosquito infestations, and these pests aren’t just annoying they can also carry dangerous diseases like West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis.
Even with insect repellent, citronella candles, and screened porches, it’s hard to escape them entirely.
Essential tip: Stock up on bug spray and consider monthly pest control services.
4. Living Costs Can Be Surprisingly High
Many people expect Florida to be affordable, especially since there’s no state income tax.
But housing prices, gas, utilities, and groceries can be higher than you’d think especially in popular areas like Miami, Naples, or Sarasota.
If you’re relocating from a state like Mississippi or Kansas, prepare for some sticker shock.
Did you know? Florida’s overall cost of living is above the national average, and housing is the biggest contributor.
5. The Politics Might Surprise You
Florida’s political landscape has shifted dramatically over the years. Once a reliably Democratic state, Florida has grown increasingly divided, with recent elections swinging in favor of Republicans.
For politically-minded residents, this polarization can be a major adjustment. On the other hand, some people feel their vote matters more in a swing state.
Tip: Do a little digging into local politics to see if your views align with your future community.
6. Pest Control Is Practically Mandatory
If you thought the bugs stopped at mosquitos and lovebugs, think again. Florida is home to termites, cockroaches, spiders, and more many of which love to invade homes.
If you’re not prepared to invest in regular pest control, you could find yourself sharing your space with some very unwelcome guests.
Budget tip: Factor in pest control services as a recurring home maintenance expense.
7. You Might Not Feel Like You’ve Moved
Some people move to Florida expecting a fresh start and a new environment only to discover that they’re surrounded by people from the same region they just left.
This is especially true in popular cities where transplants from the Northeast or Midwest cluster together. If you’re seeking a cultural shift, you may not find it.
Reality check: Florida’s population is growing rapidly, but much of it consists of transplants, not natives.
8. School Quality Varies Wildly
If you have kids, Florida’s public school system may be a cause for concern. The state’s overall learning rate has faced criticism, and some districts perform poorly on national assessments.
That said, U.S. News & World Report ranks Florida high in higher education and fairly well in K-12 performance so your experience may depend heavily on the district and school.
Advice for parents: Research specific school districts, not just cities, before making the move.
9. Insurance Will Drain Your Wallet
The state’s lack of income tax might lure you in, but Florida has some of the highest insurance rates in the country.
Full coverage auto insurance costs about 55% more than the national average. And depending on where you live, you might also need flood insurance, hurricane insurance, and even sinkhole coverage.
Cost alert: Be prepared to spend hundreds or even thousands more annually on insurance.
10. It’s So. Darn. Muggy.
Florida’s climate is not for everyone. Even if you love sunshine, the humidity is oppressive—especially in the summer.
It can feel like walking through a wet blanket, and it doesn’t let up until late fall. For some transplants, the weather is more draining than delightful.
What to expect: Summer temperatures often hover in the 90s, with humidity levels that make it feel even hotter.
11. No Real Seasons
If you enjoy the changing seasons cool autumn breezes, colorful leaves, or winter snow you won’t find much of that in Florida.
The state has two real settings: hot and hotter. Fall and winter barely exist outside of the northernmost cities, and even then, it’s a far cry from a traditional seasonal shift.
Aesthetic loss: Wearing sweaters in October? Probably not happening.
12. Snowbirds – Seasonal Traffic Jams
Every winter, Florida welcomes nearly a million seasonal residents, affectionately known as “snowbirds.”
These part-time Floridians escape colder states and flock to Florida’s warmer climate, bringing with them an influx of traffic, longer wait times at restaurants, and crowded beaches. What once felt peaceful can become frustratingly busy.
Pro insight: If you don’t like crowds, avoid touristy areas from November through April.
Alicia Richards