Ditching the snow shovel for a pair of flip-flops is the ultimate retirement dream, but making the move to Florida involves a lot more than just picking out a swimsuit. If you're escaping brutal tax hikes in the Northeast, sky-high coastal prices in the West, or those endless gray winters in the Midwest, this guide covers everything you need to know about making your move a success in 2026. We've already shared our list of the top Florida cities to retire in 2026, so now we're going deeper into the actual logistics of making the Sunshine State your permanent home.

Northeastern Residents Stop Getting Taxed Twice

If you're coming from New York, New Jersey, or Massachusetts, you're probably hunting for some financial breathing room. Florida stays a top pick for retirees because there’s no state income tax. That means your Social Security checks, pension, and 401k withdrawals stay in your bank account instead of Uncle Sam.

When you make the trek from the Northeast, your first big move is establishing Florida legal domicile. This stops your old state from trying to tax you while you're living in the sun. It’s a simple process, but you need to spend at least 183 days in Florida and update your mailing address, voter registration, and driver’s license. A lot of folks from the Northeast end up on the Atlantic Coast in spots like Boca Raton real estate or Melbourne Florida retirement communities. The energy feels familiar, and the quick flights back to JFK or Logan make it easy to visit family.

Midwest Retirees Swap the Rust Belt for the Sun Belt

Retirees from Illinois, Ohio, and Michigan usually head straight for the Gulf Coast when they want to slow things down. The West Coast of Florida is famous for calm emerald waters and sand that feels like powdered sugar. Cities like Sarasota, Venice, and Naples have a relaxed vibe that’s perfect when you're ready to trade industrial views for sunset strolls.

Coming from the Midwest, the humidity will be your biggest adjustment. You'll save a fortune on heating bills, but your summer cooling costs will definitely go up. One perk you'll love is the Save Our Homes assessment cap. Once you homestead your Florida house, the assessed value can’t jump more than 3% per year. That gives you the kind of long-term tax stability that’s pretty rare back in the Midwest.

West Coast Transplants Find More Space for Less

If you're moving from California, Oregon, or Washington, you’re probably used to massive home prices and tons of regulations. Florida feels like a breath of fresh air for your budget, even with the market staying competitive. Lately, West Coast transplants are looking at the Florida Panhandle or Central Florida to get more land for their money and a nice mix of Southern charm and modern life.

One thing to watch for when moving from the West is the insurance situation. While you're used to wildfire risks, Florida deals with hurricanes and flood zones. It’s smart to look into Florida homeowners insurance rates and flood requirements before you get your heart set on a house. Areas like Ocala or Gainesville have a more inland feel with rolling hills and massive oak trees, which can help you avoid the higher insurance costs you find right on the sand.

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🏡 Find new homes as soon as they’re listed

🤝 Get help from a local expert anytime

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 700+ 5-star reviews

Lower Your Property Taxes with the Florida Homestead Exemption

The most important date on your calendar is March 1st. That’s the deadline to file for your Florida Homestead Exemption. This can shave up to $50,000 off your home’s assessed value, which adds up to huge savings on property taxes. Plus, Florida doesn't have an inheritance or estate tax, so it’s a great place to make sure your wealth stays with your kids and grandkids.

Healthcare is another huge part of the Florida lifestyle. The state has a massive network of hospitals and specialists who focus specifically on what seniors need. When you’re scouting cities, check how close you are to major spots like the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville or Tampa General. Having world-class care nearby gives you a lot of peace of mind as you get older.

There’s a Neighborhood for Everyone

Florida has a neighborhood for every personality. You can find massive, high-energy spots like The Villages Florida or quiet, hidden gems like Punta Gorda real estate. If you want a mix of city life and beach time, St. Petersburg and Fort Lauderdale have amazing art scenes and walkable downtowns. For a more nature-focused retirement, the Nature Coast areas like Homosassa or Crystal River offer a look at "Old Florida" with manatee springs and beautiful wetlands.

Start Your Journey with Vreeland Real Estate

A move this big is a lot easier when you've got people who know the local streets and the hidden gems. Our team has earned hundreds of five-star Google reviews from clients who love our clear communication and our knack for saving buyers millions in closing costs and price drops. We're proud to be a top-rated team covering everything from Tampa and Jacksonville down to Miami and the Palm Beaches. When you’re ready to find your perfect spot in the sun, connect with one of our expert realtors at Vreeland Real Estate.