I moved from California to the Tampa bay area in 2003 back then it was really affordable to buy or rent a house vs what your salary was. You could buy a nice home in a good area for low to mid $200k the job paying you about 50k to 60k annually now the same house is mid $400s to $500k with the job paying pretty much the same.
I actually moved back to California for these reasons. Besides politics and recent homelessness, California is just a better state. Weather is even better, especially in San Diego.
@@Calvinmob681 delusional...More than 343,000 people left California for another state last year, the highest number of any U.S. state. AS ROSIE SAYS, "GOOGLE IT ! "
It's never to late to move back to California Mike. So your thinking is that the homes should still be $200,000 after 20 years? and BTW. my sons live here in NE florida and make a lot more than $60,000. get updated..
Liberals have long ago destroyed California Mike; and Liberals (specifically lawyers bankrupting property and casualty insurance,along with State Attorneys letting criminals go free for the past 30 years) have (for the most part) destroyed Florida. You are correct in your recounting of history as well. I've seen the exact same thing since I moved from Michigan to Florida in the late 1970's. ANYBODY could make it here by showing up for work, doing it right the first time and start a family and/or start your own business. Tampa is destroyed by BlackRock - many areas of urban Florida are invaded by SCOWLING NEW YORKERS bitching about slow service in the service industry BECAUSE THEY BID UP THE COST OF HOUSING TO $600,000 plus for ANY single family home with a quarter acre lot.
Love living in Florida and have no desire to move. However, property taxes, homeowners insurance, auto insurance and HOA fees are making it a challenge. Fixed and middle income people are really getting crushed.
And young people will rent all their lives. Big money has taken control of our world and average working people will only have what they decide for you. Check out "You will own nothing" by Carol Roth.
IF YOU PURCHASE A HOME THAT HAS AN HOA , THEN THATS ON YOU...HOAs ARE A SCAM...YOU CAN OWN YOUR HOME OUT RIGHT AND STILL LOOSE IT IF YOU FAIL TO PAY YOUR HOA FEES...GO FIGURE...!
Thank you for this video! Yes, keep spreading the word to prevent more Californians, New Yorkers, and Chicagoans from wanting to move here! I even gave the video a like to help with the algorithm!
I have noticed a lot of negative things about FL from the left-leaning MSM nowadays. No matter what I will be moving to the Winter Garden area in a few years. Do we need to have houseowner insurance for freehold property?
More reasons not to move to FL: (1) FL loves pets, but veterinarian cost are now the second highest in the country. (2) If you are senior citizen, good luck finding a qualified MD that accepts Medicare. (3) FL is the new playground for multi-millionaires and billionaires, be one of them or try your luck at a casino or lottery before moving here.
😂😂😂😂. Just bought in Orlando suburbs. Paid too much but in 20 years, I won't care and will make money. Unless you are into flipping, a house is a long investment and a nice thing to pass onto heirs.
Florida has become completely unaffordable. We considered moving there but by that time the prices were out of control. We ended up buying on Long Island. My cousin’s house in Florida cost more than our house here in NY. It’s insanity!
My brother retired last year 2023 from an Engineer job in NYC, he bought a house in Flaorida and not even a year later he's asking me for money, he wants to borrow $9,000 dollars because he owes property taxes, I do not have that kind of money to loan so now his house is in jeopardy, people think wisely before you buy property.
Mortgage rates are currently at an all time high since 2000(23 years) and based on statistics on inflation, we might see that number skyrocket further, a 30-year fixed rate was only 5% this time last year, so do I just keep waiting for a housing crash before buying or redirect my focus to the equity market
The stock market is no different, to maintain profit, you need to have some in-depth knowledge on the market. I mostly just buy and hold stocks, but my portfolio has been mostly in the red for quite awhile now. Unfortunately to be able to make good gains, you’ll need to be consistent and restructure your portfolio frequently.
In my opinion, it was much easier investing back in the 60s but it’s a lot trickier now, those making consistent profit in these times are professionals reason I’ve been using an advisor for the past 5 years to consistently build my portfolio in preparations for retirement.
Can't divulge much “Camille Alicia Garcia” is the advisor that oversees my portfolio. She's an extremely intelligent person, very thoughtful, cautious, and has an outstanding credentials, it's easy to find her on the web.
Thank you for this tip. It was easy to find your coach. Did my due diligence on her before scheduling a phone call with her. She seems proficient considering her resume.
say it again!!!!! stay OUT OF THE LEFT LANE if you're going the speed limit and NOT PASSING!!!!! car insurance is crazy here. 1100+/6mths and no accidents. ridiculous great realistic video.
@@MelanieLovesTampaBay As a Floridian for 24 years and a local truck driver i can confirm this to be true. Right lane is the new fast lane. Just don’t tell anyone..
Paradise has a price. We love visiting Florida but the heat and bugs are atrocious. But make no mistake, no matter where you go or live there’s always going to be someone who tells you why it is a terrible place. As a retired military couple we have lived all over the world and US. And everywhere we went people told us why that particular area was so awful. Without fail.
We moved more inland, but still only 10 miles from Sunset Beach, because of the flood zones. Made a big difference in our insurance costs. And found a home in a little older neighborhood without HOA. Not what we originally planned when moving here but the most cost effective for our long term goals.
I will never buy a condo or any hoa/pud type of development property. Nothing common. Good for you. smart move from NJ. i was thinking about moving but I think the heat would kill me.
Be careful with being more inland. That's were most of the native floridians moved to get away from the outstaters and they ain't going to be happy when they get pushed again.
Spot on! We're in Port Charlotte and our utility bills have skyrocketed in the past few years. We're very frugal with our electric usage and our bill has not been under $400 all year (at worst $584 for one month). Our homeowners and auto insurance have also jumped significantly...with homeowners insurance increasing $1500 since last year. I've said repeatedly that I don't know how anyone on a fixed income is going to be able to live here moving forward. Those who are moving to Florida and are unaware of the situation are in for a huge wake up call. We're in the process of building a retirement homestead and relocating to Tennessee. While sales tax is high there, I'm certain that our cost of living is going to be much cheaper.
One nice benefit no property taxes for seniors. But yes you get taxed on groceries. A freind just moved from CA to parris Tennessee they love it.myself I think Arkansas has a lot to offer and less traffic.
@@CraigC-h6b, exactly. We're originally from Michigan, but relocated to Florida for work and to escape the brutal winters. However, Florida summers are also brutal, so now, we're moving halfway back. We'll still get some cold weather, but not the extreme lake effect snow we used to get living 10 miles from Lake Michigan. Plus, it's always been our dream to live near the mountains and that dream is coming true.
Nice video! Lived in FL since '75 (all areas except Panhandle) and it's the heat that will be the eventual relocation reason. You can find affordability but you will never get out of the unrelenting heat and humidity.
Moved to Central Florida 35 years ago, bought a nice house in a great neighborhood. It was such a great investment, we bought a second house 20 years ago. My only regret is not buying a few more while prices were a fraction of what they are today. 😢 We are near Orlando, but far enough away to avoid the craziness.
"We are near Orlando, but far enough away to avoid the craziness." My wife and I just moved to Florida a few months ago (just north of Orlando near the Orange City area). We're really enjoying Florida so far. The housing isn't as insane as we were expecting, and the property taxes aren't much higher than our Midwestern home. I suppose it's all situational.
Lived in Indian Rocks Beach for 26 years. I saw what was coming and left in 2017. Best thing I've ever done. I rented a apartment for 430 a month with help through the VA. When it hit 1300 I left. Sure I miss the beaches and the friends but piece of mind and money in my pocket. Thanks, I'm not trashing at all. Thanks
We live in a studio apartment in Tampa. Power went up from an average of $75 to our highest a couple months ago of $155.... this is in a 400sqft studio unit. We even had the AC checked to make sure refrigerant was good and filters were replaced.
Thank you for your great content, as always! We were moving to Florida and changed our minds for another reason. But I am glad that we didn't make the move. We still love Florida and will continue to vacation there!
My friend Christina and her family bought a waterfront luxury home in Tampa. It was her dream home which is funny because every mansion she buys is her dream home. They lived in Florida home for 2 years and they had alligators in the pool, a hurricane, crime, and the humidity. Christina currently has homes in California and Oregon so her family was not ready for the heat. They sold their Florida home and their new luxury home is Great Falls, VA.
Great Falls VA is arguably most expensive county in the US. Lived in Tyson's corner for 8 years absolutely love VA however property insurance is high As hell, vehicle property insurance even if you lease it was like 2-3 k for my car. And state income tax. But good for your friend Christina she is blessed to live wherever she wants
Great Video. Everything you said is spot on. Insurance is the 800lb gorilla in the room of all types. Can not get away from Morgan and Morgan ads on every TV station offering legal services to sue insurance companies. My 2 car auto insurance policy is $2200 more a year in FLA. My homeowners insurance is $1500 more a year even with Citizens. Sales tax is more in FLA from my state in the northeast. Property tax was about the same. Add all this up and northeast state income tax begins to look like a better buy. The bad part is that even with these high property tax, teachers make very little money in the Tampa area for a degree required position. One over looked thing you mention is Water rates. Since Pasco and Hernando counties stopped selling water to Tampa it is a real problem. When these counties started selling water to Tamps 25 years ago, it started the sink hole crisis. Even with all these negatives, the weather 8 months of the year is great. You can deal with the HOT HOT of the summer better than the winter cold.
I Moved to Florida from NY two years ago and i love it here. Sure, there are Downfalls but the good out way the bad, at least for me. NY was way more expensive and i live a much better life down here. But your spot on and there are things that need to improve. And by the way i am 48 years old not a senior yet.
I have noticed a lot of negative things about FL from the left-leaning MSM nowadays. No matter what I will be moving to the Winter Garden area in a few years.
For me, who's leaving California, in 2019 the alligators, bugs, lightning, hurricanes and excessive heat were outweighed by the quality of life, government sanity and affordable nice housing. Now, the housing is not so affordable, the governor is talking about leaving and the home owner's insurance nightmare I keep hearing about have changed my mind, and I have chosen another location.
@@davidevans3175 I was slated to move to Temecula in the Spring of 2020. That didn't happen, and the way things are now there, I'm not moving to California. I need some warm year round weather. I like Tucson, but the wife doesn't. Florida is the best compromise we have found. We are still in PA, looking to get out asap.
@@Twobarpsi I'm in Los Angeles, do not move to California under any circumstances. Since we're down in the comments I'll tell you were I'm going - South Carolina, the northern coast. I was going to Florida too, but the housing is now expensive and there's a home insurance nightmare going on that you must look into before you go. Florida is an extreme weather state, very very expense insurance. 95% of all insurance litigation is in Florida. It's not just hurricanes, #1 state for lightning damage, there's wind damage (non-hurricane), flooding, you have to look into this. All the major insurance companies have pulled out of Florida.
This is the most accurate overall analysis of the current state of living in Florida I've heard to date. You are spot on with all points - especially the left-lane drivers!! We are facing all of these issues. We love it here, but these issues may force us to eventually leave Florida.
Totally agree with everything. Ridiculous costs. My 400K home is 6.5k property tax, 500 electric bills (we’ve done a Lot to lower it but to no avail), water is 350 every two months. It’s outrageous here. Oh, and all roads are terrible, they’re doing NOTHING with the tax revenue except pocketing.
I’m in Ocala My property tax is under 3k a year.Homeowners insurance is 800$ a year and I just filled my 7,000 gallon pool with a hose and it costed 16$.My water is next to nothing,electricity is under 200$ so………
I live in Florida in the Tampa Bay area, trust me, you do not want to move to Florida!! I’m moving out as soon as I can possibly arrange it. I’m going back to the beautiful blue state and city of San Diego, California, which I should’ve never left in the first place!
Another problem that exists everywhere is that even if your home is paid off, the increased value makes property taxes unaffordable for many people. This is especially true for seniors. You also left out hurricanes.
@@standground8284 because people incomes change. I have a cousin who brought a house in 2018 but after he lost his business in 2022 his income was literally cut in half, now he is struggling. Another reason I've seen that people don't save enough for retirement. So when they do retire they don't earn enough money to afford the life they were living when they had a job.
I lived there 16 years. It was a nightmare! The best thing I did was move out. I could literally write a book about it. Doing anything there is like jumping over a hurdle and when it’s one hurdle after another it starts getting old. Don’t miss it.
I'm moving OUT of Florida, specifically Vero Beach. Going to eastern NC, where there is more affordable housing, great health care, great shopping, a lot of things to do and 4 seasons to enjoy. I'm sick and tired of temps in the 80's in Nov, Dec and January, where you better get all your outside activities done by 10 am, then it's being stuck in air conditioning for the rest of the day all the way to sunset because around 5 or 6 pm, the sun is still blistering. And then you have to deal with the snowbird population descending on our community creating unbelievable traffic, especially along the coast. No thanks. I'm out of here.
So, what's next? Fraudulently electing a Democrat governor and observing corruption & criminality spike into stratospheric levels, homelessness and lawlessness elevate, the state government becoming authoritarian and power mongering??
Great video Melanie! Enjoy watching all the videos you create, but definitely agree with all the reason you mentioned. I moved almost 2 years ago and I am currently dealing with the cost increase for vehicle and home insurance since both of those significantly increase from one year to the other.
Thank you for the comment! Yes, the cost increases have been challenging for residents who have been here a long time and a short time! Hope you are enjoying the Sunshine State otherwise ☀️
Good video.I think you forgot that the job market...depending on what part of Florida you may be in can sometimes suck. I remember back in 2005 when I was considering staying in Florida or moving to Los Angeles...there were a lot more job opportunities in Los Angeles compared with the southeastern Florida area. I'm glad I decided Los Angeles...there's a lot more to do. Florida sometimes can feel like its just bars and beaches.
Stay in CAL i here las anglos is the perfect place to start a family no drugs or homelessness or crime in general it’s peaches and cream and trans and everything dreams are made of
OUR FAMILY first moved to South Florida (Fort Lauderdale) in 1956. Back then, every city was separated by "green zones". NOW, you can't tell when you traverse from one city to the next ! We would NEVER go there to even visit, much less move back there ! Can't understand WHY home prices are SO HIGH there, considering the LOW WAGES and all the NEGATIVES of a high population area. We moved to North Central Florida, but Yankee transplants are already swarming here as well. ALAS, FLORIDA....
I moved to Palm Coast in September. I bought a lot two years ago and during the time it took to get all my ducks in a row and build it the cost ended up being about 75K more than it was when I first bought the lot. Flagler County was pretty affordable in 2019 when I first considered it, but it shot up a lot. Its still more affordable than much of Florida and as you said the whole country went up during the COVID period. As far as utilities go, my old one was Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) in Northern California and it has some of the highest rates in the country. My first Florida Light and Power bill on my new home was about half what it was on a smaller home in California. I was thrilled. My car insurance, car registration and homeowner's insurance are also cheaper than California. Not to mention gasoline is much cheaper here. All in all, Florida seems fairly affordable to me. Its all a matter of perspective.
If considering moving to Tampa Bay Area, I advise staying off of I-4 as much as possible. The traffic is a nightmare. Many look north to Pasco County for lower prices. I chose to look to the South to Manatee County. Easier access to the Gulf, even lower housing prices, and better traffic.
The prices of homes has risen in all states. We are from Massachusetts and the cost of living is much less in Florida. Our utilities are are very low compared to Massachusetts. The insurance has risen due to Ian but will lower after the dust settles. We are from Fort Myers area but not in a flood zone. Many people move to Florida because they save on the lack of state income tax. I agree on the traffic, we stay more within our lovely community.
I graduated USF in 1970. Lived in St Pete. We wanted to return for our retirement as we are now in our 70s. We chose Arizona. Reasons are many but I really loved South Florida. Excellent video.
😂😂😂 of course. A lot of places are better than Illinois. In fact that whole area, WI, OH, IN, IL is a horrible drive and am always in a hurry to leave....i have family out there.
I'm a native born in 1970. The quality of life began to plummet 20 years ago. Natives are moving to retire elsewhere. Florida's best days are behind her
I'm travelling in a RV through Florida at the moment. This is my first visit and I've looked forward to it a lot. About two weeks in and I'm a bit disappointed . First off , FL has some of the most beautiful developments that I've seen around the country . Some places are just gorgeous. I'm on the back end of a five year (started beginning 2019) trip to visit all of the lower 48 states and once FL is done that box will be checked. The negative side is that there is just too many people on the coast and then of course the weather. Oh boy, the weather. It is mid November and even now the humidity is formidable. I don't want to experience this state in the summer ever.
Great summary! You really nailed all of the negatives. Despite the problems associated with massive growth, there are no other states where I'd move to at this time.
Im a "Florida OG" (here before Disney)...the NUMBER 1 problem in Florida....there are to many people !!! When i first moved to florida, the population of the entire state was about 7million, now 52yrs later the population is 23million. All the newbies didnt just move here in last 3yrs....
You certainly hit the nail on the head with these issues. I've lived here in Florida now for about 60 years, so I have seen and lived all the changes. Probably my biggest rip is with the insurance industry. Our problems started with going down hill when crooked Bill Nelson (when he was insurance commissioner) decided it would be a good idea to let the insurance companies treat Florida as a separate entity. It just doesn't make sense. Insurance is supposed to take the whole of everybody and average it out so that the rates are fair for everybody. Right away the insurance companies are having a field day charging exorbitant rates. You got insurance companies telling people that if your roof is over 12 years old, you must pay a premium price. Most roofs have a 25 - 35 year life expectancy. How does the state of Florida let insurance companies get away with this? Then you have some insurance companies that will not insure your home if you have solar panels installed on your roof, claiming the panels interfere with the integrity of the roof. Most insurance companies will charge you a (much) higher rate if your roof trusses are not 'double' nailed. In order to fix that problem one would have to spend $1.00 so you could save $0.10 on your insurance rate. Not a wise move. And currently the state keeps talking about ways to reduce the cost of insurance, but that's all it is..... talk. Nothing happens. I have a good idea of how to fix it. First, get this damn separate entity thing removed. That's just crap. And then, when these insurance companies want to move out of Florida because they want to reduce their exposure, tell them that's fine, but if they don't provide homeowner's insurance, they can't sell ANY of their products in Florida. Let's see what they say then. All they want to do is cherry pick. Take all of your business and get out of Florida. They wouldn't because there is too much money down here. Ron DeSantis needs to get off his azz and get something done about this, like soon.
I miss Lawton Childs. He told the insurance companies to stick it after Andrew. They tried to gouge everyone. He told them if you raise the rates you won’t be allowed to write health policies and Car policies
@@bilahn1198 Well, you still do. Florida is the only state to my knowledge that is treated as a separate entity. And you can keep all your ice and snow crap. Hurricanes... personally I haven't seen one since 2005, and it wasn't a bad one. Reality and perception are two different things. The reality is only small parts of Florida get hit with a hurricane every now and then. Down here, our homes are built to withstand them, so most times it's not that big of a deal. The news media would have you believe the whole state has been obliterated. That's not even close to the truth. Most of the time, if you didn't know there was a hurricane out there, you'd think that it was just a bad day of weather. Getting back to the issue of insurance, they're just taking us to the cleaners. Take the last two years here. Florida hasn't had any real hurricanes, but they've been collecting insurance payments for all that time. Yet, when and if a hurricane does come, they claim they don't have enough money. Where did all that money go that they've been collecting for the last couple of years? It's all political my friend. The fleecing of America......
@@bilahn1198 Been here 66 years and haven't been hit like that yet. The odds are in my favor. I personally self insure. Not everybody can do that. And in a lot of cases, filing a claim doesn't even meet the deductible. Imagine the money spent (out of pocket) over 66 years and NO claims. Ft Myers is a very small part of Florida. Remember, they are collecting insurance from EVERYBODY in Florida. I don't know the actual amount of money they (insurance companies) collect in just one year, but I can imagine it's tens of millions of dollars. And let's not forget, you are not exactly free from disaster yourself. I could mention floods, tornados, fires, gas explosions, ice storms, cars rotting out from salt on the roads, etc. Everybody has some kind of exposure. The whole point of insurance is to collect from everybody so the unfortunate people don't have to pay exorbitant rates. The point of this conversation is Florida is now a separate entity. There is not enough people in Florida to spread the money out, so now we have the highest rates in the country. That's my point.
I am in Florida, and I see something big coming this winter. We've had an unusually dry summer and millions of new water consumers. This coming winter could be a disaster with the lakes at unbelievably low levels.
We're full. Taxes, insurance, home prices are totally out of control, even in the rural, and Panhandle, whereas it used to be cheap. Im so glad I experienced moving here in the early 80s, a studio on the beach, could be affordable by working at a t-shirt store.
I have Tico also, my electric bills during the peak hottest part of the summer was running around $600 a month! $600 a month!! That’s absolutely crazy!
Being a Realtor in Port Charlotte I have witnessed many folks packing up from Cities like Naples, Fort Myers and Sarasota and coming here to Charlotte County to get some of the best bangs for your buck as far as housing goes-- Bigger homes, larger land lots and many non deed restricted communities'. We have Sunseeker Resort opening December 15th and many Big Chain restaurants like Whiskey Joe's and other's breaking ground on Charlotte Harbor. Sunseeker Resort and Allegiant Airlines investing here heavily with their new 750 million dollar Resort. Waterfront property still affordable and basically the last Gulf Coast Florida Frontier getting ready to launch higher in value as well.
I've been a fan of this channel for a while now. I appreciate the information. I have family that just announced over Christmas that they are moving to Sarasota next June. They already bought the house. I've been hoping to get my wife to move, that announcement might be the push to get her to commit. That said, I thank you for this video to insure there are no surprises when we do make that move.
I moved to Florida for the weather and do NOT miss the changing seasons. I’m never “over” the heat. The month I hate the most in Florida is actually January. These super chilly days piss me off the most. I rather have 90° all year round before ONE day of 35° temps.
Very good video. Some things are hard to realize, or get a feel for, by researching online and have to find out after moving here - or have an honest realtor. Moved to Tampa about 2 years ago. Was apartment living (3x cost of my larger condo in mid-west) and looking for a more permanent home. Interest rates and insurance costs also translate to higher Condo and HOA fees. Bought a small 30 y/o home in June, HOA fees going up by $55/mo (10%) due to insurance on community structures.
So happy we moved here years ago when our 3bd/pool home was affordable. I’m in a small coastal town & like it. The winter is challenging with all the influx of snowbirds. Glad I love staying home! Lol
As a native. Leave our snow birds alone. We love our snow birds because they actually do it the right way. They visit and leave they are not part of the transplants that have uprooted and moved here permanently ruining a tourist state. Florida has always been known for snow birding.
I have lived in FL for 21 years and it is no longer the state i used to love. I agree with your points, but honestly, i don't really talk to people that moved here due to the "great migration". That is what destroyed the state. It's very sad and i am hoping things become more reasonable very soon. I'm starting to see more people move out of FL now, so that will help.
@@Reload77725 and everyone of those people moving in are making the state worst. Higher housing demand, traffic, overpopulation, over building in orange fields, house insurance rates skyrocketing because of lack of companies. There are very few good paying jobs in the state. It is driven by tourism, so mostly hospitality and leisure jobs. It's pricing out the middle class and people who have actually lived in the state for decades. I've been in FL since 2002 and loved it. Came here for a job. Unless someone moves to FL for a specific job or maybe retirement, I won't associate with others that recently moved here. The state used to be wonderful, now it's just California 2.0.
Moved here in 2016 hoping to save money as there was a family illness but i will probable return up north, yes even NY area can be affordable compared to what i s happening here...
Utility companies are raising rates all the time. It’s usually for infrastructure and salaries for the executives. They have captive customers who can’t go somewhere else.
I appreciate the fact that you are discuraging people from moving into Florida. We don't need New Yorkers changing out politics. I've lived in the Bay Area since the 70's.
Love all the updates on living in Florida. Can you do a new updated version of what you need to do once you move to Florida…DMV, cost and what you need etc. not sure if the same info is still current. Thank you!!
maybe in Tampa area is bad with TECO but those on OUC have had 2 rate drops this year. It really is a localized issue for cost as many different people in different areas.
I moved to Florida in 2019, and I love it. I never wanted to live in Florida due to the Summer heat and the lack of cool Autumn weather. But the pandemic convinced me that the move was a good one. The one drawback has been the raising rates and other crazy increases. I hope DeSantis can keep doing a good job. I liked the fact that he halted the state sales taxes on gas for a time during part of the pandemic.
😂😂😂 what is he doing so good. You got caught up in the hype of not having to wear a mask and uprooted your entire life. He is on his second and last term. He has done nothing but campaign while insurance premiums are skyrocketing. Get out of here you were suckered in 😂😂
@@naturelover2292 There is a reason why so many people are moving to Florida and the way DeSantis handled Covid is one of them. Moreover, he has limited the liberal, crazy BS at schools and in education. Finally, his new policies allow Floridians to defend themselves from the crime which is destroying NY and California. Here criminals get the hash sentences they deserve. And even with some rate increases, Florida is still cheaper than most states.
Retirees looking to move south: There's good living here and there in every Southern state that deserve consideration. Don't fall for stereotypes. I'm from NY living in Louisiana, which overall has a poor reputation. However, my area has reasonable housing, low taxes, cheap utilities, good health care, great eating, little traffic, and lots of fun festivals. Of course, it's hot in the summer and insurance is expensive. Every place has its pros and cons.
One thing you should tell people is that insurance companies are leaving the state and many others are not renewing or going to offer home policies anymore. It's now a state emergency issue. Just a thought for the people out there.
Florida cities like Orlando were always overrated even in the 2010s. Overcrowded, rude people, terrible traffic and a huge boom and bust economy like Arizona. Let's not even talk about the terrible wages and insane cost of living. Here's a tip to those thinking of moving there: you're too late for the party and may as well move to Costa Rica at this point.
You are so right since the migration from the North it’s gotten worse . I move here 40 years ago and it was much different, but I wouldn’t live anywhere else. Yes this years electric was about 100.00 more than last year but it was extremely hot . 🙏❤️🤨
If you go further inland in Fla it gets very reasonable. Try buying anywhere in Maryland, NY, California or Massachusetts you have to be making well over 100,000 to buy anything decent.
One thing I’d like to add when traveling to Florida is you’ll notice how old the population is. You’ll notice it immediately at the airport or on the airplane. It’s like traveling to your parent’s house.
You are SO WRONG. You must be visiting West Palm, the Villages or Boca. Our county in NE Florida is full of young people, our schools are growing. Most of NE and NW Florida have only 20% of the population over 62. Don't generalize.
I'm a resident of Florida for 30 years. In any state there is always a place for anybody to live. However you need to prepare enough money for expenses like a house, transportation, utilities, food etc. Loved the weather and beautiful beaches. Not really concern about hurricanes coz I never experienced any problem in my property. Most important is the location of your property.
Native _"Florida Man"_ here. Me thinks, you are correct ....in some fashion. The problems of Florida are that (people?) keep moving in, and plowing over!
While true that location matters in insurance costs, the same is true for home construction materials. A wood frame house will cost you more in insurance than a concrete block house. Moving to the area just north and west of Florida is the best bet as it’s the highest points in the state so you won’t need a flood insurance policy. There’s no threat of storm surge there, as compared to Tampa.
Have to agree with you on the left lane drivers. I feel they are just as dangerous as reckless drivers. I drive from Ocala to The Villages on occasion on 441 and it is just a long line of left lane drivers going under the speed limit and you cannot get around them.
My 2 reasons why I'm moving out of florida the second i get the chance, to many ppl and way too expensive. Rents and housing are starting to match california, and NY,NJ prices, but the pay cant keep up
As a Florida resident for the last 20 years I can attest the State has changed considerably in many areas. In some areas the state has horrible transportation issues. Others are just plain ghetto. Other countries unfortunately have ludicrous numbers of illegals w no morals. The lack of financial affordability, and stagnant income for all has turned FL into another up north territory. As soon interest rates drop considerably I'm moving out forever. Cheers.
Likewise I've lived in Florida for 20 years and was North East (New Jersey) Resident. Living in Florida's heading for worse, I can't move elsewhere despite what Melanie sincerely said and shared. I bet I could move away from big cities in Florida, I'd be better off... Frankly I believe America gets worse and worse and no matter where you live, living standards are no longer affordable....due to double population in 50 years...
I can’t believe the property taxes. Just as much as my old house in Connecticut and let’s not mention insurance. Really wish I kept My house up north for summer and fall.
I moved from California to the Tampa bay area in 2003 back then it was really affordable to buy or rent a house vs what your salary was. You could buy a nice home in a good area for low to mid $200k the job paying you about 50k to 60k annually now the same house is mid $400s to $500k with the job paying pretty much the same.
I actually moved back to California for these reasons. Besides politics and recent homelessness, California is just a better state. Weather is even better, especially in San Diego.
Its absurd for young people, professionals or not.
@@Calvinmob681 delusional...More than 343,000 people left California for another state last year, the highest number of any U.S. state. AS ROSIE SAYS, "GOOGLE IT ! "
It's never to late to move back to California Mike. So your thinking is that the homes should still be $200,000 after 20 years? and BTW. my sons live here in NE florida and make a lot more than $60,000. get updated..
Liberals have long ago destroyed California Mike; and Liberals (specifically lawyers bankrupting property and casualty insurance,along with State Attorneys letting criminals go free for the past 30 years) have (for the most part) destroyed Florida.
You are correct in your recounting of history as well. I've seen the exact same thing since I moved from Michigan to Florida in the late 1970's. ANYBODY could make it here by showing up for work, doing it right the first time and start a family and/or start your own business. Tampa is destroyed by BlackRock - many areas of urban Florida are invaded by SCOWLING NEW YORKERS bitching about slow service in the service industry BECAUSE THEY BID UP THE COST OF HOUSING TO $600,000 plus for ANY single family home with a quarter acre lot.
Florida has Manhattan rents at Mississippi wages.
You are 100 % right
Well said..
I am a Florida native, and you are absolutely correct and the many governors don't see or care about any real Floridians.
****OH YEA SOOOOOOO TRUE **** !!!!!!
facts
Love living in Florida and have no desire to move. However, property taxes, homeowners insurance, auto insurance and HOA fees are making it a challenge. Fixed and middle income people are really getting crushed.
🎯
And young people will rent all their lives. Big money has taken control of our world and average working people will only have what they decide for you. Check out "You will own nothing" by Carol Roth.
Also it’s filled with Florida people.
IF YOU PURCHASE A HOME THAT HAS AN HOA , THEN THATS ON YOU...HOAs ARE A SCAM...YOU CAN OWN YOUR HOME OUT RIGHT AND STILL LOOSE IT IF YOU FAIL TO PAY YOUR HOA FEES...GO FIGURE...!
Your joking right? Jacksonville has a higher murder rate than Chicago or NYC. Have fun in your trailer during a real storm.
Thank you for this video!
Yes, keep spreading the word to prevent more Californians, New Yorkers, and Chicagoans from wanting to move here!
I even gave the video a like to help with the algorithm!
I have noticed a lot of negative things about FL from the left-leaning MSM nowadays. No matter what I will be moving to the Winter Garden area in a few years. Do we need to have houseowner insurance for freehold property?
too late we still coming !!!!!!!!!!!!!
If it wasn’t for NYer’s, Chicagoan’s and Californians. Florida would be a sand pit.
Go elsewhere! Please.
@@rogerjohnson8707 I own a TH in Jacksonville since 2014 loser. What's your problem?
More reasons not to move to FL: (1) FL loves pets, but veterinarian cost are now the second highest in the country. (2) If you are senior citizen, good luck finding a qualified MD that accepts Medicare. (3) FL is the new playground for multi-millionaires and billionaires, be one of them or try your luck at a casino or lottery before moving here.
Most states are now unaffordable due to inflation. I am a Florida native but the population increase has caused a mess in traffic
If "Buy high, and sell low" is part of your real estate strategy, now is a perfect time to move to Florida.
That applies to just about everywhere. Housing prices are out of control and will correct in the future.
😂😂😂😂. Just bought in Orlando suburbs. Paid too much but in 20 years, I won't care and will make money. Unless you are into flipping, a house is a long investment and a nice thing to pass onto heirs.
Over 47 years I lived in Jacksonville, Tampa, and St. Augustine. Happy to be a floriDUH refugee.
Thanks Blackrock!
Florida has become completely unaffordable. We considered moving there but by that time the prices were out of control. We ended up buying on Long Island. My cousin’s house in Florida cost more than our house here in NY. It’s insanity!
Better you stay in NY ( highest Taxes in the country, highest crime, and 1 million migrants)...to many New Yorkers have destroyed South Florida.
I'm loving all the Latin women that are flooding into Florida.
My brother retired last year 2023 from an Engineer job in NYC, he bought a house in Flaorida and not even a year later he's asking me for money, he wants to borrow $9,000 dollars because he owes property taxes, I do not have that kind of money to loan so now his house is in jeopardy, people think wisely before you buy property.
@@eddieBoxer this doesn’t surprise me. My cousin’s husband told me that their property taxes down there went up by a lot recently
Mortgage rates are currently at an all time high since 2000(23 years) and based on statistics on inflation, we might see that number skyrocket further, a 30-year fixed rate was only 5% this time last year, so do I just keep waiting for a housing crash before buying or redirect my focus to the equity market
The stock market is no different, to maintain profit, you need to have some in-depth knowledge on the market. I mostly just buy and hold stocks, but my portfolio has been mostly in the red for quite awhile now. Unfortunately to be able to make good gains, you’ll need to be consistent and restructure your portfolio frequently.
In my opinion, it was much easier investing back in the 60s but it’s a lot trickier now, those making consistent profit in these times are professionals reason I’ve been using an advisor for the past 5 years to consistently build my portfolio in preparations for retirement.
@@mariaguerrero08 My partner’s been considering going the same route, could you share more info please on the advisor that guides you.
Can't divulge much “Camille Alicia Garcia” is the advisor that oversees my portfolio. She's an extremely intelligent person, very thoughtful, cautious, and has an outstanding credentials, it's easy to find her on the web.
Thank you for this tip. It was easy to find your coach. Did my due diligence on her before scheduling a phone call with her. She seems proficient considering her resume.
say it again!!!!! stay OUT OF THE LEFT LANE if you're going the speed limit and NOT PASSING!!!!! car insurance is crazy here. 1100+/6mths and no accidents. ridiculous great realistic video.
How old are you, what car?
Thank you! Did you notice that the Right lane is now faster than the Left lane? It’s totally backwards now!
@@MelanieLovesTampaBay As a Floridian for 24 years and a local truck driver i can confirm this to be true. Right lane is the new fast lane. Just don’t tell anyone..
Paradise has a price. We love visiting Florida but the heat and bugs are atrocious. But make no mistake, no matter where you go or live there’s always going to be someone who tells you why it is a terrible place. As a retired military couple we have lived all over the world and US. And everywhere we went people told us why that particular area was so awful. Without fail.
True, but having lived here over 20yrs now, it has gotten worse, and they will soon price the middle class out of the state.
@@GAKTomory why is that? Just too many transplants coming in?
We moved more inland, but still only 10 miles from Sunset Beach, because of the flood zones. Made a big difference in our insurance costs. And found a home in a little older neighborhood without HOA. Not what we originally planned when moving here but the most cost effective for our long term goals.
Nice! That is a great compromise!
I will never buy a condo or any hoa/pud type of development property. Nothing common. Good for you. smart move from NJ. i was thinking about moving but I think the heat would kill me.
Be careful with being more inland.
That's were most of the native floridians moved to get away from the outstaters and they ain't going to be happy when they get pushed again.
Spot on! We're in Port Charlotte and our utility bills have skyrocketed in the past few years. We're very frugal with our electric usage and our bill has not been under $400 all year (at worst $584 for one month). Our homeowners and auto insurance have also jumped significantly...with homeowners insurance increasing $1500 since last year. I've said repeatedly that I don't know how anyone on a fixed income is going to be able to live here moving forward. Those who are moving to Florida and are unaware of the situation are in for a huge wake up call. We're in the process of building a retirement homestead and relocating to Tennessee. While sales tax is high there, I'm certain that our cost of living is going to be much cheaper.
One nice benefit no property taxes for seniors. But yes you get taxed on groceries. A freind just moved from CA to parris Tennessee they love it.myself I think Arkansas has a lot to offer and less traffic.
You chose wisely I love Tennessee, you can always vacation in Florida without the risen costs of everything.
@@brianmatthews4149True! I have a family member that retired to Chandler Arizona and he loves it.
@@CraigC-h6b, exactly. We're originally from Michigan, but relocated to Florida for work and to escape the brutal winters. However, Florida summers are also brutal, so now, we're moving halfway back. We'll still get some cold weather, but not the extreme lake effect snow we used to get living 10 miles from Lake Michigan. Plus, it's always been our dream to live near the mountains and that dream is coming true.
No property taxes for seniors? Where did you get that? @@brianmatthews4149
Nice video! Lived in FL since '75 (all areas except Panhandle) and it's the heat that will be the eventual relocation reason. You can find affordability but you will never get out of the unrelenting heat and humidity.
🥵🔥 _I hear that !!_
I live in Tampa and the heat isn’t unrelenting. I rather have heat than frigid cold. Tampa gets COLD in the winter. 37° SUCKS!!!!
Moved to Central Florida 35 years ago, bought a nice house in a great neighborhood.
It was such a great investment, we bought a second house 20 years ago.
My only regret is not buying a few more while prices were a fraction of what they are today. 😢
We are near Orlando, but far enough away to avoid the craziness.
"We are near Orlando, but far enough away to avoid the craziness."
My wife and I just moved to Florida a few months ago (just north of Orlando near the Orange City area). We're really enjoying Florida so far. The housing isn't as insane as we were expecting, and the property taxes aren't much higher than our Midwestern home. I suppose it's all situational.
We did the same central is affordable
Not for long, Orlando is expanding out, the craziness is headed your way.
Lived in Indian Rocks Beach for 26 years. I saw what was coming and left in 2017. Best thing I've ever done. I rented a apartment for 430 a month with help through the VA. When it hit 1300 I left. Sure I miss the beaches and the friends but piece of mind and money in my pocket. Thanks, I'm not trashing at all. Thanks
We live in a studio apartment in Tampa. Power went up from an average of $75 to our highest a couple months ago of $155.... this is in a 400sqft studio unit. We even had the AC checked to make sure refrigerant was good and filters were replaced.
I love South Florida for the first 2 weeks every January. For the other 50 weeks of the year, I love living in the rolling hills of Western PA and WV.
We from PA it has quite high property taxes and income tax other than that I love and miss PA every day but my husband doesn't like snow :((
Thank you for your great content, as always! We were moving to Florida and changed our minds for another reason. But I am glad that we didn't make the move. We still love Florida and will continue to vacation there!
Thank you for the comment!
Florida is a vacation state if there is too much migration it will ruin the whole vacation economy. I never want to live where I love to vacation.
Not come. We're packed here
My friend Christina and her family bought a waterfront luxury home in Tampa. It was her dream home which is funny because every mansion she buys is her dream home. They lived in Florida home for 2 years and they had alligators in the pool, a hurricane, crime, and the humidity. Christina currently has homes in California and Oregon so her family was not ready for the heat. They sold their Florida home and their new luxury home is Great Falls, VA.
Great Falls VA is arguably most expensive county in the US. Lived in Tyson's corner for 8 years absolutely love VA however property insurance is high As hell, vehicle property insurance even if you lease it was like 2-3 k for my car. And state income tax. But good for your friend Christina she is blessed to live wherever she wants
@@MissRiaRum Yeah, I know a lot of millionaires ( myself included) but she is so rich ( think oil) that money is not a big deal.
Great Video. Everything you said is spot on. Insurance is the 800lb gorilla in the room of all types. Can not get away from Morgan and Morgan ads on every TV station offering legal services to sue insurance companies. My 2 car auto insurance policy is $2200 more a year in FLA. My homeowners insurance is $1500 more a year even with Citizens. Sales tax is more in FLA from my state in the northeast. Property tax was about the same. Add all this up and northeast state income tax begins to look like a better buy. The bad part is that even with these high property tax, teachers make very little money in the Tampa area for a degree required position.
One over looked thing you mention is Water rates. Since Pasco and Hernando counties stopped selling water to Tampa it is a real problem. When these counties started selling water to Tamps 25 years ago, it started the sink hole crisis.
Even with all these negatives, the weather 8 months of the year is great. You can deal with the HOT HOT of the summer better than the winter cold.
Thank you so much for commenting! Yes, you are very right about teacher salaries and water costs!
I Moved to Florida from NY two years ago and i love it here. Sure, there are Downfalls but the good out way the bad, at least for me. NY was way more expensive and i live a much better life down here. But your spot on and there are things that need to improve. And by the way i am 48 years old not a senior yet.
You could get a senior coffee at Mcdonalds for 80 cents they never ask for id
Vote republican if you want it to last..
I have noticed a lot of negative things about FL from the left-leaning MSM nowadays. No matter what I will be moving to the Winter Garden area in a few years.
Is ok you could get a senior discount Mcdonalds senior coffee is 80 cents unlimited refills
For me, who's leaving California, in 2019 the alligators, bugs, lightning, hurricanes and excessive heat were outweighed by the quality of life, government sanity and affordable nice housing. Now, the housing is not so affordable, the governor is talking about leaving and the home owner's insurance nightmare I keep hearing about have changed my mind, and I have chosen another location.
Where?
@@Twobarpsi I'd rather not say. Housing is affordable, taxes are low, crime is low if you chose the right area, and the quality of life is great.
@@davidevans3175 I was slated to move to Temecula in the Spring of 2020. That didn't happen, and the way things are now there, I'm not moving to California. I need some warm year round weather. I like Tucson, but the wife doesn't. Florida is the best compromise we have found. We are still in PA, looking to get out asap.
@@Twobarpsi I'm in Los Angeles, do not move to California under any circumstances. Since we're down in the comments I'll tell you were I'm going - South Carolina, the northern coast. I was going to Florida too, but the housing is now expensive and there's a home insurance nightmare going on that you must look into before you go. Florida is an extreme weather state, very very expense insurance. 95% of all insurance litigation is in Florida. It's not just hurricanes, #1 state for lightning damage, there's wind damage (non-hurricane), flooding, you have to look into this. All the major insurance companies have pulled out of Florida.
@@Twobarpsi I suggest instead of Florida to maybe consider the Carolinas, GA, TN, more affordable and still warm weather
This is the most accurate overall analysis of the current state of living in Florida I've heard to date. You are spot on with all points - especially the left-lane drivers!! We are facing all of these issues. We love it here, but these issues may force us to eventually leave Florida.
Thank you so much for the kind words. I hope you are able to stay in beautiful Florida 😊
Thank you to our hostess for this important segment. Masterfully done. Glad I found this vlog
Totally agree with everything. Ridiculous costs. My 400K home is 6.5k property tax, 500 electric bills (we’ve done a Lot to lower it but to no avail), water is 350 every two months. It’s outrageous here. Oh, and all roads are terrible, they’re doing NOTHING with the tax revenue except pocketing.
I’m in Ocala My property tax is under 3k a year.Homeowners insurance is 800$ a year and I just filled my 7,000 gallon pool with a hose and it costed 16$.My water is next to nothing,electricity is under 200$ so………
@@user-fg1yx9ix6w so, you must not be in a desirable area. We’re 10 minutes from the beach. Ocala is out to lunch, podunk so I’m not surprised
@@SG-mr4igI will never buy a home by the beach after I've seen what happened in Ft. Meyers during the last hurricane.
I live outside of Philly and i pay nore for a 365k home.
I live in Florida in the Tampa Bay area, trust me, you do not want to move to Florida!! I’m moving out as soon as I can possibly arrange it. I’m going back to the beautiful blue state and city of San Diego, California, which I should’ve never left in the first place!
Another problem that exists everywhere is that even if your home is paid off, the increased value makes property taxes unaffordable for many people. This is especially true for seniors.
You also left out hurricanes.
I don't get how a person can't afford the taxes for the year with no mortgage. Ppl go from paying 1500k plus a month to just 4k a year
And ginormous bugs
Look up Homestead Exemption !
Because ppl retire and now live on a small social security check...thus, can't afford tax and insureence increases..@@standground8284
@@standground8284 because people incomes change. I have a cousin who brought a house in 2018 but after he lost his business in 2022 his income was literally cut in half, now he is struggling.
Another reason I've seen that people don't save enough for retirement. So when they do retire they don't earn enough money to afford the life they were living when they had a job.
I lived there 16 years. It was a nightmare! The best thing I did was move out. I could literally write a book about it. Doing anything there is like jumping over a hurdle and when it’s one hurdle after another it starts getting old. Don’t miss it.
Where did you move to if you don't mind me asking?
I'm moving OUT of Florida, specifically Vero Beach. Going to eastern NC, where there is more affordable housing, great health care, great shopping, a lot of things to do and 4 seasons to enjoy. I'm sick and tired of temps in the 80's in Nov, Dec and January, where you better get all your outside activities done by 10 am, then it's being stuck in air conditioning for the rest of the day all the way to sunset because around 5 or 6 pm, the sun is still blistering. And then you have to deal with the snowbird population descending on our community creating unbelievable traffic, especially along the coast. No thanks. I'm out of here.
The good news is, since Mar-A -Lago has been devauled from 1.5 billion to 18 million, then valuations should come down.
So, what's next? Fraudulently electing a Democrat governor and observing corruption & criminality spike into stratospheric levels, homelessness and lawlessness elevate, the state government becoming authoritarian and power mongering??
Left Florida for awhile. The rest of the country is actually nice. Plenty of space out west and Midwest. Nicer people
Great video Melanie! Enjoy watching all the videos you create, but definitely agree with all the reason you mentioned. I moved almost 2 years ago and I am currently dealing with the cost increase for vehicle and home insurance since both of those significantly increase from one year to the other.
Thank you for the comment! Yes, the cost increases have been challenging for residents who have been here a long time and a short time! Hope you are enjoying the Sunshine State otherwise ☀️
Good video.I think you forgot that the job market...depending on what part of Florida you may be in can sometimes suck. I remember back in 2005 when I was considering staying in Florida or moving to Los Angeles...there were a lot more job opportunities in Los Angeles compared with the southeastern Florida area. I'm glad I decided Los Angeles...there's a lot more to do. Florida sometimes can feel like its just bars and beaches.
And Los Angeles has become a dystopia. I'm glad I chose Florida over California.
Stay in CAL i here las anglos is the perfect place to start a family no drugs or homelessness or crime in general it’s peaches and cream and trans and everything dreams are made of
OUR FAMILY first moved to South Florida (Fort Lauderdale) in 1956. Back then, every city was separated by "green zones". NOW, you can't tell when you traverse from one city to the next ! We would NEVER go there to even visit, much less move back there ! Can't understand WHY home prices are SO HIGH there, considering the LOW WAGES and all the NEGATIVES of a high population area. We moved to North Central Florida, but Yankee transplants are already swarming here as well. ALAS, FLORIDA....
I moved to Palm Coast in September. I bought a lot two years ago and during the time it took to get all my ducks in a row and build it the cost ended up being about 75K more than it was when I first bought the lot. Flagler County was pretty affordable in 2019 when I first considered it, but it shot up a lot. Its still more affordable than much of Florida and as you said the whole country went up during the COVID period. As far as utilities go, my old one was Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) in Northern California and it has some of the highest rates in the country. My first Florida Light and Power bill on my new home was about half what it was on a smaller home in California. I was thrilled. My car insurance, car registration and homeowner's insurance are also cheaper than California. Not to mention gasoline is much cheaper here. All in all, Florida seems fairly affordable to me. Its all a matter of perspective.
If considering moving to Tampa Bay Area, I advise staying off of I-4 as much as possible. The traffic is a nightmare. Many look north to Pasco County for lower prices. I chose to look to the South to Manatee County. Easier access to the Gulf, even lower housing prices, and better traffic.
The prices of homes has risen in all states. We are from Massachusetts and the cost of living is much less in Florida. Our utilities are are very low compared to Massachusetts. The insurance has risen due to Ian but will lower after the dust settles. We are from Fort Myers area but not in a flood zone. Many people move to Florida because they save on the lack of state income tax. I agree on the traffic, we stay more within our lovely community.
Really? Most people are saying that is cheaper in Mass. Maybe it depends on rhe area they are living.
I graduated USF in 1970. Lived in St Pete. We wanted to return for our retirement as we are now in our 70s. We chose Arizona. Reasons are many but I really loved South Florida. Excellent video.
Moved to Florida from Illinois, love Florida best decision we made. Coming from mega taxes in Illinois we are now better off in Florida 🌴🌴🌴😎
😂😂😂 of course. A lot of places are better than Illinois. In fact that whole area, WI, OH, IN, IL is a horrible drive and am always in a hurry to leave....i have family out there.
I'm a native born in 1970. The quality of life began to plummet 20 years ago. Natives are moving to retire elsewhere. Florida's best days are behind her
I'm travelling in a RV through Florida at the moment. This is my first visit and I've looked forward to it a lot. About two weeks in and I'm a bit disappointed . First off , FL has some of the most beautiful developments that I've seen around the country . Some places are just gorgeous. I'm on the back end of a five year (started beginning 2019) trip to visit all of the lower 48 states and once FL is done that box will be checked. The negative side is that there is just too many people on the coast and then of course the weather. Oh boy, the weather. It is mid November and even now the humidity is formidable. I don't want to experience this state in the summer ever.
Great summary! You really nailed all of the negatives. Despite the problems associated with massive growth, there are no other states where I'd move to at this time.
Thank you 😊
Im a "Florida OG" (here before Disney)...the NUMBER 1 problem in Florida....there are to many people !!! When i first moved to florida, the population of the entire state was about 7million, now 52yrs later the population is 23million. All the newbies didnt just move here in last 3yrs....
Our relatives moved FROM Florida to San Diego, CA because they love it there and they CAN AFFORD it there.
Such a perfect video! Very good, balanced, unbiased advice
You certainly hit the nail on the head with these issues. I've lived here in Florida now for about 60 years, so I have seen and lived all the changes. Probably my biggest rip is with the insurance industry. Our problems started with going down hill when crooked Bill Nelson (when he was insurance commissioner) decided it would be a good idea to let the insurance companies treat Florida as a separate entity. It just doesn't make sense. Insurance is supposed to take the whole of everybody and average it out so that the rates are fair for everybody. Right away the insurance companies are having a field day charging exorbitant rates. You got insurance companies telling people that if your roof is over 12 years old, you must pay a premium price. Most roofs have a 25 - 35 year life expectancy. How does the state of Florida let insurance companies get away with this? Then you have some insurance companies that will not insure your home if you have solar panels installed on your roof, claiming the panels interfere with the integrity of the roof. Most insurance companies will charge you a (much) higher rate if your roof trusses are not 'double' nailed. In order to fix that problem one would have to spend $1.00 so you could save $0.10 on your insurance rate. Not a wise move. And currently the state keeps talking about ways to reduce the cost of insurance, but that's all it is..... talk. Nothing happens. I have a good idea of how to fix it. First, get this damn separate entity thing removed. That's just crap. And then, when these insurance companies want to move out of Florida because they want to reduce their exposure, tell them that's fine, but if they don't provide homeowner's insurance, they can't sell ANY of their products in Florida. Let's see what they say then. All they want to do is cherry pick. Take all of your business and get out of Florida. They wouldn't because there is too much money down here. Ron DeSantis needs to get off his azz and get something done about this, like soon.
I miss Lawton Childs. He told the insurance companies to stick it after Andrew. They tried to gouge everyone. He told them if you raise the rates you won’t be allowed to write health policies and Car policies
I live in Minnesota and have no desire to have my rates affected by people who CHOOSE to live in a state so subject to natural disasters.
@@bilahn1198 Well, you still do. Florida is the only state to my knowledge that is treated as a separate entity. And you can keep all your ice and snow crap. Hurricanes... personally I haven't seen one since 2005, and it wasn't a bad one. Reality and perception are two different things. The reality is only small parts of Florida get hit with a hurricane every now and then. Down here, our homes are built to withstand them, so most times it's not that big of a deal. The news media would have you believe the whole state has been obliterated. That's not even close to the truth. Most of the time, if you didn't know there was a hurricane out there, you'd think that it was just a bad day of weather. Getting back to the issue of insurance, they're just taking us to the cleaners. Take the last two years here. Florida hasn't had any real hurricanes, but they've been collecting insurance payments for all that time. Yet, when and if a hurricane does come, they claim they don't have enough money. Where did all that money go that they've been collecting for the last couple of years? It's all political my friend. The fleecing of America......
@@Mike-hb4pc Tell that to Fort Myers. It will get you eventually!
@@bilahn1198 Been here 66 years and haven't been hit like that yet. The odds are in my favor. I personally self insure. Not everybody can do that. And in a lot of cases, filing a claim doesn't even meet the deductible. Imagine the money spent (out of pocket) over 66 years and NO claims. Ft Myers is a very small part of Florida. Remember, they are collecting insurance from EVERYBODY in Florida. I don't know the actual amount of money they (insurance companies) collect in just one year, but I can imagine it's tens of millions of dollars. And let's not forget, you are not exactly free from disaster yourself. I could mention floods, tornados, fires, gas explosions, ice storms, cars rotting out from salt on the roads, etc. Everybody has some kind of exposure. The whole point of insurance is to collect from everybody so the unfortunate people don't have to pay exorbitant rates. The point of this conversation is Florida is now a separate entity. There is not enough people in Florida to spread the money out, so now we have the highest rates in the country. That's my point.
Thank you for your honesty. My concern, besides your points made, is hurricane damage to properties!
I am in Florida, and I see something big coming this winter. We've had an unusually dry summer and millions of new water consumers. This coming winter could be a disaster with the lakes at unbelievably low levels.
we dont drink lake water
@@HayabusaOrlando Lots of people have well water, use it for all sorts of things.
We're full.
Taxes, insurance, home prices are totally out of control, even in the rural, and Panhandle, whereas it used to be cheap.
Im so glad I experienced moving here in the early 80s, a studio on the beach, could be affordable by working at a t-shirt store.
I have Tico also, my electric bills during the peak hottest part of the summer was running around $600 a month! $600 a month!! That’s absolutely crazy!
Might as well just get a generator and pay for the fuel.
It would be cheaper.
Being a Realtor in Port Charlotte I have witnessed many folks packing up from Cities like Naples, Fort Myers and Sarasota and coming here to Charlotte County to get some of the best bangs for your buck as far as housing goes-- Bigger homes, larger land lots and many non deed restricted communities'. We have Sunseeker Resort opening December 15th and many Big Chain restaurants like Whiskey Joe's and other's breaking ground on Charlotte Harbor. Sunseeker Resort and Allegiant Airlines investing here heavily with their new 750 million dollar Resort. Waterfront property still affordable and basically the last Gulf Coast Florida Frontier getting ready to launch higher in value as well.
Port Charlotte is great and love the fishing too
Going to try and snowbird in southern Florida for a few years coming from the Northeast and then decide whether we should make the move permanently
I've been a fan of this channel for a while now. I appreciate the information. I have family that just announced over Christmas that they are moving to Sarasota next June. They already bought the house. I've been hoping to get my wife to move, that announcement might be the push to get her to commit. That said, I thank you for this video to insure there are no surprises when we do make that move.
Thank you so much! Fingers crossed 🤞🏼 that you get to move soon!
I moved to Florida for the weather and do NOT miss the changing seasons. I’m never “over” the heat. The month I hate the most in Florida is actually January. These super chilly days piss me off the most. I rather have 90° all year round before ONE day of 35° temps.
Keep this up. The Less people that move here the better.
To move to FL was my plan, now I have decided to move abroad.
Thailand?
You read my mind prepare for TH O visa now😅@@timsmith8391
I'll be moving to Philippines in 2024.
Very good video. Some things are hard to realize, or get a feel for, by researching online and have to find out after moving here - or have an honest realtor. Moved to Tampa about 2 years ago. Was apartment living (3x cost of my larger condo in mid-west) and looking for a more permanent home. Interest rates and insurance costs also translate to higher Condo and HOA fees. Bought a small 30 y/o home in June, HOA fees going up by $55/mo (10%) due to insurance on community structures.
Moved to Florida 2 years ago from New York. I have no regrets.
Great information- all spot on. I would start with insurance as #1 issue, both homeowner’s and car insurance.
So happy we moved here years ago when our 3bd/pool home was affordable. I’m in a small coastal town & like it. The winter is challenging with all the influx of snowbirds. Glad I love staying home! Lol
As a native. Leave our snow birds alone. We love our snow birds because they actually do it the right way. They visit and leave they are not part of the transplants that have uprooted and moved here permanently ruining a tourist state. Florida has always been known for snow birding.
Florida can be tolerable if you can ignore the weather, insurance, governor, roads, bugs, pollution, theft, crime,... etc.
People are moving out !
Please move away go to CA it’s nice there
I have lived in FL for 21 years and it is no longer the state i used to love. I agree with your points, but honestly, i don't really talk to people that moved here due to the "great migration". That is what destroyed the state. It's very sad and i am hoping things become more reasonable very soon. I'm starting to see more people move out of FL now, so that will help.
Umm there's 150,000 more people moving into FL every year than there are moving out. Put the crack pipe down.
@@Reload77725 and everyone of those people moving in are making the state worst. Higher housing demand, traffic, overpopulation, over building in orange fields, house insurance rates skyrocketing because of lack of companies. There are very few good paying jobs in the state. It is driven by tourism, so mostly hospitality and leisure jobs. It's pricing out the middle class and people who have actually lived in the state for decades. I've been in FL since 2002 and loved it. Came here for a job. Unless someone moves to FL for a specific job or maybe retirement, I won't associate with others that recently moved here. The state used to be wonderful, now it's just California 2.0.
Your video is what I call an honest assessment and I am sure you are a great realtor.
Moved here in 2016 hoping to save money as there was a family illness but i will probable return up north, yes even NY area can be affordable compared to what i s happening here...
Utility companies are raising rates all the time. It’s usually for infrastructure and salaries for the executives. They have captive customers who can’t go somewhere else.
I appreciate the fact that you are discuraging people from moving into Florida. We don't need New Yorkers changing out politics. I've lived in the Bay Area since the 70's.
Years ago, I used to live in Palm Harbor then moved to Clearwater, Florida and loved it!
Love all the updates on living in Florida. Can you do a new updated version of what you need to do once you move to Florida…DMV, cost and what you need etc. not sure if the same info is still current. Thank you!!
I moved to Florida in 2020, and I remember watching your videos to get everything together for the movie. Its wild to see this video after that.
It’s been a wild couple of years for sure! Thank you for continuing to watch 😊
Humidity and alligators keep me from moving to Florida. But, I do vacation there every year, in the dead of winter, and I like it.
Perfect video please make more videos to keep people away! Wahoo great job
Melanie If every Floridian was like you a reason #6”It’s Florida!”why not to move to Florida would be the #1 reason why to move to Florida!👏
maybe in Tampa area is bad with TECO but those on OUC have had 2 rate drops this year. It really is a localized issue for cost as many different people in different areas.
I moved to Florida in 2019, and I love it. I never wanted to live in Florida due to the Summer heat and the lack of cool Autumn weather. But the pandemic convinced me that the move was a good one. The one drawback has been the raising rates and other crazy increases. I hope DeSantis can keep doing a good job. I liked the fact that he halted the state sales taxes on gas for a time during part of the pandemic.
Get vaxed
You know he ran away to become president right?
He abandoned us.
😂😂😂 what is he doing so good. You got caught up in the hype of not having to wear a mask and uprooted your entire life. He is on his second and last term. He has done nothing but campaign while insurance premiums are skyrocketing. Get out of here you were suckered in 😂😂
@@naturelover2292 There is a reason why so many people are moving to Florida and the way DeSantis handled Covid is one of them. Moreover, he has limited the liberal, crazy BS at schools and in education. Finally, his new policies allow Floridians to defend themselves from the crime which is destroying NY and California. Here criminals get the hash sentences they deserve. And even with some rate increases, Florida is still cheaper than most states.
LOLOLOLOLOLOL>>>BAH HAHAHAHA>>>LOLOLOLOLOLOLOL
Yes someone else said it. "Just leave the left lane for passing". Preach it!
I live in Florida and i totally agree with everything you saying😢
Retirees looking to move south: There's good living here and there in every Southern state that deserve consideration. Don't fall for stereotypes. I'm from NY living in Louisiana, which overall has a poor reputation. However, my area has reasonable housing, low taxes, cheap utilities, good health care, great eating, little traffic, and lots of fun festivals. Of course, it's hot in the summer and insurance is expensive. Every place has its pros and cons.
My X wife's house insurance is 3800 a year . Insurance in N.y on my house which is double my house in Florida is 990.😊
Living providence Rhode island love New England and four seasons..every couple years ones visiting universal studios I’m all set 😂
Great video Melanie. You seem like an honest agent. Keep up the good work. New subscriber.😊
Thank you so much, that means a lot 😊
Moving to florida was the best move i've ever made..
One thing you should tell people is that insurance companies are leaving the state and many others are not renewing or going to offer home policies anymore. It's now a state emergency issue. Just a thought for the people out there.
Florida cities like Orlando were always overrated even in the 2010s. Overcrowded, rude people, terrible traffic and a huge boom and bust economy like Arizona. Let's not even talk about the terrible wages and insane cost of living. Here's a tip to those thinking of moving there: you're too late for the party and may as well move to Costa Rica at this point.
You are so right since the migration from the North it’s gotten worse . I move here 40 years ago and it was much different, but I wouldn’t live anywhere else. Yes this years electric was about 100.00 more than last year but it was extremely hot . 🙏❤️🤨
Brand new DR Horton Homes here 5 bd 3 bath 389k, no flood insurance required, not in a flood zone, and a great location
I’m moving to florida and I’m really looking forward to it!!!! 😊
It's hard here in Wisconsin too.. My house is in a top area with 5 beds on 2 floors/3 garages/ 2 acre garden and the Property tax is $4,800
If you go further inland in Fla it gets very reasonable. Try buying anywhere in Maryland, NY, California or Massachusetts you have to be making well over 100,000 to buy anything decent.
One thing I’d like to add when traveling to Florida is you’ll notice how old the population is. You’ll notice it immediately at the airport or on the airplane. It’s like traveling to your parent’s house.
You are SO WRONG. You must be visiting West Palm, the Villages or Boca. Our county in NE Florida is full of young people, our schools are growing. Most of NE and NW Florida have only 20% of the population over 62. Don't generalize.
@@frankgiuliano380 well you need to come to the Tampa Airport then because just a week ago it looked like a retirement center
@frankgiuliano380 yes, I live in N E Florida
I'm a resident of Florida for 30 years. In any state there is always a place for anybody to live. However you need to prepare enough money for expenses like a house, transportation, utilities, food etc. Loved the weather and beautiful beaches. Not really concern about hurricanes coz I never experienced any problem in my property. Most important is the location of your property.
The entire economy has been tanking since 2019 and we all know why. Thanks for the video!
It’s tanking all over the world so stop with the ignorance
@@dhobbs1974 it’s not ignorance. Sorry if facts bother you but that’s just too bad.
Umm no it's not FL has THE strongest economy of all 50 states. Put the crack pipe down.
@@Reload77725 Bullshyt, everybody is moving away from Florida because they got screwed by Desantis, you got what you voted for.
@@dhobbs1974No… Bullshyt to you. Florida has highest population growth in the country according to every single source on the internet.
Native _"Florida Man"_ here. Me thinks, you are correct ....in some fashion. The problems of Florida are that (people?) keep moving in, and plowing over!
Hi! Can you please review Port Saint Lucie, FL? It’s officially part of “Central FL”. Thank you in advance for!
The central part to south i wouldnt going up farther better though
While true that location matters in insurance costs, the same is true for home construction materials. A wood frame house will cost you more in insurance than a concrete block house. Moving to the area just north and west of Florida is the best bet as it’s the highest points in the state so you won’t need a flood insurance policy. There’s no threat of storm surge there, as compared to Tampa.
Have to agree with you on the left lane drivers. I feel they are just as dangerous as reckless drivers. I drive from Ocala to The Villages on occasion on 441 and it is just a long line of left lane drivers going under the speed limit and you cannot get around them.
My 2 reasons why I'm moving out of florida the second i get the chance, to many ppl and way too expensive. Rents and housing are starting to match california, and NY,NJ prices, but the pay cant keep up
Thanks for that valuable information ℹ️
As a Florida resident for the last 20 years I can attest the State has changed considerably in many areas. In some areas the state has horrible transportation issues. Others are just plain ghetto. Other countries unfortunately have ludicrous numbers of illegals w no morals. The lack of financial affordability, and stagnant income for all has turned FL into another up north territory. As soon interest rates drop considerably I'm moving out forever. Cheers.
Likewise I've lived in Florida for 20 years and was North East (New Jersey) Resident. Living in Florida's heading for worse, I can't move elsewhere despite what Melanie sincerely said and shared. I bet I could move away from big cities in Florida, I'd be better off... Frankly I believe America gets worse and worse and no matter where you live, living standards are no longer affordable....due to double population in 50 years...
You will live here forever if you're waiting for interest rates to drop.
See YA!!!!!
I can’t believe the property taxes. Just as much as my old house in Connecticut and let’s not mention insurance. Really wish I kept
My house up north for summer and fall.