Life in the Sunshine State isn’t for everyone.
If you’re considering leaving 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!
You’re Not the Only One Leaving Florida
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 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?)
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 summer of 2004 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.
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 leaving Florida.
Georgia
With the obvious exception of Atlanta, Georgia has a laidback, natural vibe that many find irresistible.
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.
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.
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!)
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!
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, it’s the most populated in the country, making it a true melting pot of different cultures and lifestyles.
In fact, the Golden State is such a powerhouse, it’s currently the fifth largest economy in the world, ahead of the United Kingdom and Russia!
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 area is known for without having to suffer through 10 months of summer heat.
And if you think you’ll miss having theme parks in your backyard, there’s always Dollywood!
Your Long Distance Movers
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 for the entire trip.
Fill out our online quote form to get a jumpstart on your upcoming move!
