Realtors Share 8 Reasons This is the Year to Move to Florida

Florida's a great option if you've had your eye on sunnier spots to live in 2025.

Some like it hot, and there's no hotter place than the Sunshine State, especially for those who are looking to build wealth by investing in real estate.

Whether you're focused on affordability or nabbing an investment property near the beach, there's something for everyone. Combined with recent market developments, you'll understand why the real estate pros we spoke with say now's the time to make your move.

With more available homes, buyers no longer have to rush into bidding wars. Less competition means more intentional purchasing, allowing prospective homeowners the chance to secure better prices.

"For the first time in years, Florida's housing market has a notable increase in inventory, which means more selection and stronger negotiation power for buyers," according to Jeff Lichtenstein, CEO and Broker of Echo Fine Properties in Jupiter, Florida.

As one of the most tax-friendly states, thanks to the absence of income tax, Florida appeals to many. That means, investors, retirees, and remote workers can make the most of their money with tax breaks like these.

Coupled with an effective property tax rate of .82%, it's much more affordable to work and own property here. Moving away from the financial stress of living paycheck to paycheck can ease this burden. It's kind of like paying yourself first — instead of the government.

Florida houses some of the most notable retirement communities in the U.S.

With popular places like Naples and The Villages, it has become one of the country's top three most populous states.

And while the existing retirement communities appeal to the snowbird and 65 and over crowd, the sheer number of people living here makes it attractive to any age group.

Those state and income tax advantages we mentioned earlier offer some great perks now, but the state's property taxes might go away altogether.

A current proposal aims to eliminate property taxes altogether. "There is a bill on the table to get rid of property taxes," Lichentenstein says. "If that occurs, expect prices to skyrocket."

With the planned changes expected to drive up interest in the state, you may need to make a move now in order to take advantage of current deals.

The Sunshine State's tropical climate means sunny days year-round. This makes it an ideal place for folks who love spending their time outdoors and on the water.

"Beyond the tax advantages, Florida offers a climate that is both warm and inviting year-round, making it an ideal place for retirees, remote workers, and vacationers alike," according to Austin Hair, an American Ninja Warrior national finalist, a world champion wakeboarder, and a passive real estate investor at Leaders Real Estate.

If your ideal home means waking up where others pay to vacation, this is the state for you. Beaches, theme parks, and cultural hotspots are more than enough to keep you happy and traveling more.

Even if a full-time move isn't for you, and you're looking to cash in on the state's tourism industry, passive real estate investment might be for you.

"The state's thriving tourism industry also fuels strong demand for short-term rentals, making investment properties highly lucrative, particularly in cities like Orlando, Miami, and Tampa," according to Hair. "Additionally, the influx of businesses relocating to Florida is driving job growth, population increases, and higher property values, creating an attractive market."

Desirable locations in Florida continue to see population growth, making the hottest land harder to come by and driving up the price. "There isn't much land left in prime areas," according to Lichtenstein. "With demand [increasing], and a decrease of supply, prices will go up in the long run."

Hair agrees. "With rising demand, home prices are expected to continue appreciating, making 2025 a strategic time to buy before values climb even higher."

It really is all about timing, and trying to time the market by waiting for the perfect interest rate could make it harder to get a deal.

Legislation isn't just moving the mark on property taxes; it's also impacting insurance instability from excessive lawsuits.

"Insurance issues from Surfside collapse and easy to sue insurance companies over frivolous roof/water leak lawsuits have been reformed," Lichtenstein says. "This will lead to a stabilization of insurance pricing."

The combination of tax advantages, weather, and tourist attractions makes it an ideal investment for both homebuyers and entrepreneurs looking to tap into a new source of income.

Current market conditions— such as increased housing inventory and potential legislative changes — offer the ideal opportunity for snapping up your piece of the Sunshine State. 

Just don't wait too long. According to the pros, just about everyone is about to be looking to take advantage of everything Florida has to offer.