Why Florida
Florida's Case for Retirement — The Facts
Florida is the dominant retirement destination in the United States for reasons that go beyond weather. No state income tax, relatively low property taxes (with homestead exemption), a mature healthcare infrastructure designed around a large elderly population, and the largest concentration of purpose-built 55+ communities in the country — including the world's largest in The Villages.
No State Income Tax
Florida has no state income tax — a significant advantage for retirees drawing from Social Security, pensions, and retirement accounts. On $80,000 in retirement income, moving from New York to Florida saves $6,000–$14,000/year.
Homestead Exemption
Florida's homestead exemption reduces assessed value by up to $50,000. The Save Our Homes provision then caps annual assessment increases at 3%. Long-term owners pay significantly less than assessed market value.
Year-Round Climate
Central Florida averages 233 sunny days per year. January average high is 71°F. The trade-off is summer humidity (June–September) and hurricane awareness — manageable for most retirees with proper planning.
Orlando Metro Median Price
$410,000
Days on Market
51 days
Active Listings
18,265
Data updated
March 2026
Top Florida 55+ Communities
The Communities Worth Evaluating
Most Comprehensive
The Villages
📍 Sumter, Marion & Lake Counties
World's largest 55+ community — 50+ golf courses, 3 town squares, 1,500+ mi of cart paths
$160K–$600K+
130,000+ residents
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Best Coastal Option
Latitude Margaritaville
📍 Daytona Beach (Volusia County)
Jimmy Buffett-branded community minutes from the Atlantic coast. Strong social culture.
$230K–$550K
~6,000 homes planned
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Best Gated Option
Solivita
📍 Poinciana (Osceola County)
Fully gated, no CDD bond, Taylor Morrison new construction available. Near Orlando.
$280K–$520K
~6,000 homes
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Best Tampa Area Option
Sun City Center
📍 Hillsborough County (Tampa area)
Established Del Webb community near Tampa Bay — Gulf beaches 30 minutes away.
$150K–$400K
~30,000 residents
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Best Value Option
On Top of the World
📍 Ocala (Marion County)
Large established community near Ocala — no bond, city amenities nearby, lower prices.
$150K–$450K
~10,000–12,000 homes
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Relocation Guides by State
Where Are You Moving From?
Each state has a different financial profile — income taxes, property taxes, and home equity all affect how the Florida move works. Select your home state for a tailored guide.