Florida is where sunny beaches meet dense swamplands and lively cities sit alongside quiet coastal towns. Whether you’re drawn to the fast-paced energy of Miami, the theme park magic of Orlando, or the laid-back atmosphere of the Florida Keys, there’s a place for just about everyone. With no state income tax, a booming job market, and warm weather throughout the year, it’s no surprise that so many people choose to call Florida home. However, life here isn’t without its challenges. Intense humidity, the threat of hurricanes, and rising insurance costs can make day-to-day living more complicated. In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of living in Florida to help you decide if it’s a good place to live.
Renting in Florida snapshot
| Population | 23,372,215 |
| Avg. studio rent | $1,246 per month |
| Avg. one-bedroom rent | $1,280 per month |
| Avg. two-bedroom rent | $1,533 per month |
| Most affordable cities to rent in Florida | Ocala, Lakeland, Deltona |
| Most walkable cities in Florida | Miami, Miami Beach, Hialeah |
1. Pro: A mix of cultures and traditions
With strong influences from Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond, the state is a melting pot of traditions, languages, and cuisines that make everyday life feel like an international experience. In Miami, you can start your morning with a cafecito and pastelito from a ventanita in Little Havana, spend the afternoon exploring vibrant Haitian art galleries in Little Haiti, and end the night with an authentic Argentinian steak in Brickell. But Miami isn’t the only place where cultures collide. Orlando has a large Puerto Rican population, giving the city an unmistakable Boricua flavor with incredible lechoneras and salsa clubs. In Tampa, the historic Ybor City district is known for its deep-rooted Cuban heritage, where you can still watch hand-rolled cigars being made.
2. Con: Hurricanes are a yearly concern
Living in Florida means keeping an eye on the weather—especially during hurricane season, which runs from June through November. While not every year brings a major storm, the potential for high winds, flooding, and power outages is a reality that residents must prepare for. Coastal areas, particularly in South Florida and along the Gulf Coast, are most vulnerable, with cities like Miami, Tampa, and Fort Myers regularly experiencing tropical storms. When a hurricane approaches, evacuations can be stressful, gas stations and grocery stores become overcrowded, and securing a safe place to ride out the storm is a priority.
3. Pro: Nature that feels straight out of a postcard
The state is home to 175 state parks, three national parks, and countless nature preserves, making it easy to escape into the wild. The Everglades National Park, one of Florida’s most famous natural wonders, stretches across 1.5 million acres and is home to rare wildlife like the elusive Florida panther, manatees, and an abundance of alligators. If you prefer white sandy beaches, the Gulf Coast offers some of the softest, most pristine shorelines in the country, with spots like Siesta Key and Clearwater Beach. Those looking for adventure can snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs of the Florida Keys, explore underground caves in Central Florida, or paddle through bioluminescent waters on the Space Coast.
4. Con: The heat and humidity are no joke
Florida may be called the Sunshine State, but the reality is that much of the year feels like stepping into a sauna. While mild winters make it an appealing destination for snowbirds, summers bring relentless heat and humidity that can make outdoor activities feel unbearable. From June through September, temperatures regularly climb into the 90s, but the real challenge is the sticky air that makes it feel even hotter. Afternoon thunderstorms provide temporary relief, but they also bring heavy downpours, lightning, and even the occasional tornado.
5. Pro: No state income tax means more money saved
One of the biggest financial perks of living in Florida is the lack of state income tax, allowing residents to keep more of their earnings. Florida makes up for this lost revenue through sales and property taxes, which can be higher in certain areas, but overall, it remains one of the more tax-friendly states in the U.S. This financial advantage has helped fuel Florida’s rapid population growth.
6. Con: Tourists everywhere, all year round
Living in Florida means sharing your home with millions of visitors each year. Major tourist hotspots like Orlando, Miami, and Key West attract people from all over the world, creating a constant buzz of activity. While tourism is a major driver of the state’s economy, it also brings congestion, long lines, and higher prices in certain areas. In Orlando, residents often avoid theme parks during peak seasons, as wait times at Disney World and Universal Studios can stretch for hours. Coastal cities experience an influx of spring breakers and snowbirds, making it difficult to find a quiet spot on the beach.
7. Pro: A job market with something for everyone
Florida’s economy is more than just tourism—it’s a thriving mix of industries that provide opportunities in fields like aerospace, healthcare, and international trade. Cities like Tampa and Jacksonville have booming financial and tech sectors, while Orlando is home to major corporations in entertainment and simulation technology. Florida’s ports and proximity to Latin America make it a major hub for global business, attracting companies focused on logistics and trade. Additionally, the state’s growing healthcare industry provides jobs in nursing, biotech, and senior care.
8. Con: Wildlife is sometimes a little too close for comfort
Florida’s wildlife is as diverse as its people, and encounters with animals are common, whether you live in the city or the suburbs. Alligators are a part of daily life, especially near lakes, golf courses, and retention ponds. Iguanas have taken over parts of South Florida, often seen lounging on sidewalks or falling from trees during cold snaps. Snakes, including venomous species, can sometimes be found in backyards or hiking trails. Even bears roam through some northern parts of the state. While these animals are a vital part of Florida’s ecosystem, they can pose risks if not respected.
9. Pro: An arts and entertainment scene that never sleeps
Miami stands as a global art capital, hosting Art Basel and showcasing world-renowned galleries in the Wynwood Arts District. St. Petersburg brings a different artistic flair, home to the Salvador Dalí Museum and a thriving indie arts scene. Live music thrives across the state, with major concerts, festivals, and Broadway tours making frequent stops in cities like Tampa and Orlando. Whether your passion lies in theater, film, music, or visual arts, Florida’s creative landscape is constantly evolving, offering something new to discover year-round.
10. Con: Insurance costs that can leave a dent
Living in Florida comes with higher insurance costs, particularly for homeowners and drivers. Because of the state’s vulnerability to hurricanes, flooding, and high accident rates, insurance premiums are among the most expensive in the nation. Home insurance in coastal areas can be especially costly, with some providers even pulling out of the market due to risk factors. Car insurance rates are also steep, partially due to the large number of uninsured drivers. While Florida’s no state income tax is a financial perk, the high cost of insurance is something residents must factor into their budgets.
Learn more about the cost of living in Florida here.
11. Pro: Endless options for education and learning
Florida is a hub for higher education, offering a broad range of academic opportunities for students of all ages and career goals. The state is home to top-ranked universities like the University of Florida, Florida State University, and the University of Miami, each known for strong research programs and diverse fields of study. Beyond four-year institutions, Florida has an extensive network of community colleges and trade schools, making education accessible and affordable for many residents.
12. Con: Environmental challenges that affect everyday life
Florida faces mounting environmental challenges that could have long-term consequences for both residents and the state’s economy. Rising sea levels threaten coastal communities, with cities like Miami and St. Augustine already experiencing frequent flooding, even on sunny days. This ongoing issue has led to concerns about property values, as some neighborhoods are seeing higher insurance costs and declining real estate demand.
Methodology : The population data is from the United States Census Bureau, walkable cities are from Walk Score, and rental data is from ApartmentGuide.
