Life in the Sunshine State isn’t for everyone.
If you’re considering moving out of Florida, here are some options to consider.
While plenty of people think of it as Paradise, Florida isn’t for everyone.
Between the oppressive heat and humidity, swarms of snowbirds, and those humiliating “Florida Man” stories on the news, it’s enough for some people to call it quits.
If you’re considering leaving Florida, you’re probably also wondering where the heck everyone is going.
Your ultimate destination depends on you, but it can be hard to narrow down your options. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top states people move to after leaving Florida.
Who knows? Maybe one of them will be your next hometown!
Why Are People Leaving Florida?
There are plenty of reasons more and more people are moving to Florida every day. No cold weather, lots of job opportunities, no state income tax, and more entertainment than you can imagine. In fact, express a plan to move out of the Sunshine State and you’ll probably hear a common response: “Who would ever want to leave Florida?”
Rest assured, though. You’re not alone.
Nearly 40% of Florida moves involved households moving out of Florida (the other 60% of households were moving here from other states). And while some of these moves may have been due to job transfers and other circumstances out of their control, ex-Floridians can give a number of reasons for why they’re leaving Florida.
For starters, it’s hot. Florida’s seemingly endless summers are hot, humid, and just plain uncomfortable. And our winters aren’t much better. (Where else do you wear shorts on Christmas?) Many people move to Florida specifically for the sunny, warm weather, but that doesn’t mean it’s for everyone.
Second, it’s crowded. Between the tourists, snowbirds, and full-time residents (with more coming every day!), it’s enough to make you want to go off the grid. Besides, who hasn’t fantasized about never having to drive on I-4 again?
The storm seasons of 2004, 2017, and 2022 in particular really traumatized some people. The storms here are no joke. Not only hurricanes, but our summer thunderstorms can bring heavy rains, hail, strong wind, and even tornadoes. All those weather issues have led to troubling times in the property insurance market as well.
Okay, so you don’t feel crazy for wanting to leave. But where should you go?
If you don’t have a destination in mind, allow us to share the top moving destinations for people moving out of Florida.
Moving From Florida to Georgia
With the obvious exception of Atlanta, Georgia has a laidback, natural vibe that many find irresistible.
Moving out of Florida and resettling in Georgia makes for a smooth transition. It’s a quick state-to-state move, and the two have a lot in common.
If you love beachside life in Florida, settle near Savannah and soak up some rays. If you prefer the mountains, the northern part of the state has some of the most beautiful vistas around. Thanks to those mountains, you won’t be living in perpetual summer either. Georgia knows a thing or two about crisp fall weather and even some light snowfall in the winters.
And if you currently live in Miami, Orlando, or Jacksonville—and think you’ll miss Big City Life—Atlanta has plenty to keep you busy, but without the high price tag of most big cities.
Leaving Florida for Texas
You know what they say: Everything’s bigger in Texas! The Lone Star State is the second most populated state in the country, with more than 29 million residents. And this is one instance where bigger is better. All that wide open space means that there’s a little something for everyone.
Want to live the country life and start a ranch? Put on your boots and get to work. Rather live in a big city? Seek out Dallas or Houston. Want to stay out of the stereotypical “cowboy” lifestyle? You’ll love Austin!
And while Texas isn’t one of the cheapest states in the country, its average cost of living is lower than Florida’s. (Plus, no state income tax, just like you’re used to!)
Texas heat is no joke either, but you will get something of a reprieve in the winter months. Plus, you won’t be dealing with the classic Florida summer thunderstorms.
Moving Out of Florida for North Carolina
Gorgeous mountains in the west, windswept beaches in the east…what more could you ask for?
North Carolina may have a reputation for being an Appalachian backwater, but this could not be further from the truth. Just one look at Asheville, Raleigh, Charlotte, or Wilmington, and you’ll understand why so many people want to call North Carolina home.
Plus, NC has something Florida can only dream about: four distinct seasons!
Moving Out of Florida and All the Way to California
The idea of moving to California tends to be pretty polarizing. If it appeals to you, however, know that you have tons of options.
From Silicon Valley to San Diego, Lake Tahoe to Los Angeles, the people of California are as diverse as they come. This is not only a large state geographically, but it’s the most populated in the country, making it a true melting pot of different cultures and lifestyles. You can hit the beach for some surfing and the mountains for skiing all in one day if you’re up for it!
Plus, you’ll never starve for entertainment in the Golden State. They’ve got theme parks, production studios, theater, history, shopping, and so much more.
In fact, the Golden State is such a powerhouse, it’s one of the largest economies in the world, ahead of the United Kingdom and Russia!
In Southern California, like Florida, you see more sunny, warm days than not, but the humidity is much lower and the Pacific ocean offers a nice breeze in the evenings. If you’re really looking to get away from the heat, just head to San Francisco for the coldest summer you’ve ever known.
Leaving Florida for Tennessee
All of the mountainous beauty of North Carolina but with none of the state income tax, Tennessee is one of the more underrated states on our list. (It’s also one of the cheapest states in the country.)
Whether you settle down in Knoxville, Nashville, Memphis, or a secluded mountain cabin, you’ll get to enjoy the Southern hospitality the state is known for without having to suffer through 10 months of summer heat.
If you’re a musician or music lover, it’s hard to beat the state of Tennessee. Memphis is home of the blues while Nashville has all the country music you could ever want. Plus, Nashville is one of the top cities in the country if you’re a fan of live music, and you can’t beat that Memphis BBQ.
And if you think you’ll miss having theme parks in your backyard, there’s always Dollywood!
We’re the Long Distance Movers You Need
Whether you’re leaving Florida for one of these states or you’re bucking the trend and moving to Hawaii, there’s one detail you should give careful consideration and that’s your long-distance moving company.
Not all moving companies are reliable, much less capable of moving your family out of state. Even the ones that do advertise long-distance moving are notorious for passing the job to a subcontractor.
Are you comfortable with trusting all of your belongings to an absolute stranger?
At Cento Moving, we do things differently. When we say we can move you across the country, we mean it. Every long-distance move is done in-house by our own moving specialists. Once your boxes and furniture are in our possession, they remain that way until we reach your new doorstep.
Fill out our online quote form to get a jumpstart on your upcoming move!
