Florida has long been a dream destination for retirees. With its warm weather, beaches, and no state income tax, it’s easy to see why many Americans 65 and older have moved there. But for some retirees, life in the Sunshine State isn’t quite the paradise they imagined. After living there for five years, many locals and newcomers shared their reasons for deciding to leave. Here’s what they had to say.
1. Too Much Heat
While Florida’s heat might sound perfect at first, many retirees find it overwhelming. The humidity can be intense, and for some, it’s simply too much to handle, especially if they’re looking for a mild, not sweltering, climate.
2. Crowded During Snowbird Season
Every year between October and April, “snowbirds” — people who live in Florida during the winter — flood the state. This makes traffic heavier and stores more crowded, leaving year-round residents frustrated.
3. High Living Costs
Even though Florida has no income tax, it’s not cheap to live there. Car insurance, property taxes, and utilities are expensive. Without a big retirement fund, many retirees struggle to keep up with these costs.
4. Bug Problems
Bugs are a major issue in Florida. Lovebugs cover cars during mating season, and mosquitoes are everywhere. Florida even ranks number one in the U.S. for the highest concentration of mosquitoes.
5. Overbuilding
Florida is growing fast again, and for some retirees, that’s not a good thing. Many feel that endless new buildings are ruining the natural beauty they moved there to enjoy.
6. No Mountains
Florida is flat — really flat. Outdoorsy retirees who dream of hiking and mountain views often realize they’re better off moving somewhere with real hills and trails.
7. Sinkholes
Sinkholes are real and scary in Florida. Since the state’s bedrock is made of limestone that dissolves with water, parts of homes — or entire homes — can suddenly collapse. That’s not the kind of surprise retirees want.
8. Bad Water Quality
Florida has some of the worst water quality in the country. Pollution from farming, growing populations, and leaking septic tanks all affect the state’s lakes and groundwater.
9. Crime in Some Areas
Depending on where you live, parts of Florida can feel dangerous. Cities like Daytona Beach, Homestead, and Miami Beach have some of the highest violent crime rates in the state.
10. Expensive HOA Fees
Florida has a lot of neighborhoods with homeowners associations (HOAs), especially for retirees. The average HOA fee is $389 per month, much higher than the U.S. average of $291. Those extra costs can really add up.
11. Environmental Damage
Florida’s environment is hurting due to its fast-growing population. Pollution has made many lakes unsafe for swimming and fishing, and the state’s estuaries are badly damaged too.
12. Hurricanes
Hurricanes are a big worry every year in Florida. Many retirees simply get tired of the constant fear of losing their homes to a major storm and choose to move somewhere safer.
Florida still has a lot to offer retirees — sunny beaches, no income tax, and beautiful winters. But it’s not perfect. For those who can’t handle the extreme heat, high costs, bugs, or natural disasters, moving somewhere else can seem like a better choice. If you’re thinking about retiring in Florida, make sure to visit during different seasons and think carefully about the pros and cons before making a final decision.
