Whether it’s for business or leisure, moving to the sunshine state of Florida can be both exciting and daunting at the same time. Everything is new – the environment, people, weather, outdoor activities, living situation. Without any prior thought of what awaits you here, however, it can be an unnecessarily stressful situation. This article condenses the many nuances of Florida and details the five big things you should know before you buy a plane ticket.
Become Familiar with the Weather
The weather is one of the main reasons why people move to Florida. You can expect a lot of warmth and sunshine as it falls under a sub-tropical climate. This means the summers are very long, while the winters are mild and short. It can get scorching hot in summer in the high 80s, but you’ll only need a light sweater even at the peak of winter. The state sees a lot of rainfall with about 55 inches a year. There is a hurricane season from June to November, so you must study safety tips to understand what you need to do when the state imposes a severe weather alert.
Get to Know the Wildlife
Known as the Alligator State, an abundance of this species exists in this region because there is a lot of swampy areas and marshlands. There is a broad range of land fauna that may make its way to your doorsteps like snakes, iguanas, and pythons. You have to be cautious when you hike, and you may need to protect your home, too if you live near the wilderness. In the same token, insects, especially mosquitoes, can be a bit of a problem because they like to feast on your skin. Other pests you may encounter are palmetto bugs, fire ants, flies, and the like. You will need to have access to a great exterminator to protect your beloved Florida home.
Consider the Housing Market
You can familiarize yourself with the housing market with the help of reputable real estate agents. There are several reputable real estate agencies in Florida, including Marco Island Real Estate. Whether you are renting or buying a home, you need their expert advice to help you find great deals. You may need their input regarding remodeling should you decide to buy your own place. There are different types of dwellings to choose from ranging from traditional homes to modern resort-style condos. You may also want to inspect homes with amenities like pools, jacuzzis, and spas that help you take advantage of the perfect weather. Properties cost less in Florida, which makes it a popular choice for retiring or semi-retired folks.
Examine the Cost of Living
Apart from your housing cost, you have to factor in transportation, tax, utilities, food costs, and more if you are transferring to the Sunshine State. You may expect an exorbitant utility bill because you shall be running your air conditioning to combat the heat. The biggest money saver though is the state income tax because Florida does not impose this, which is a pretty sweet deal. However, you are going to be levied with a high property tax. The state is notorious for having one of the highest property taxes in America.
Find Out About Employment
Before moving anywhere, you must explore what income opportunities to expect. Do your research and find out how much you can earn for different kinds of jobs. You must make computations if that salary range can accommodate your lifestyle. Read up on popular jobs as well as the unemployment rate. The most common employment positions in the country are commercial drivers, hoist and winch operators, construction workers, building cleaning workers, and motorboat operators. When you are looking for jobs, don’t forget to ask about what benefits you can avail of as this affects your quality of life.
These five things are only the tip of the iceberg. You’ll find that Florida has a lot to offer to both visitors and residents, from its diverse and dynamic culture to fresh seafood and hospitable neighbors. Low cost of living and abundance of space are also other noteworthy things that you’ll come to appreciate while living in Florida. Before making the move, consider flying to Florida for a weekend to see how living there feels like.
