Written by: Nathan Steele
Date:

If you are looking to change your life and relocate from the Lone Star State to the Sunshine State, you’re in for quite an adventure. There are some things that you will be missing after moving from Texas to Florida, such as the famous southern hospitality and delicious BBQ, you will be opening yourself to new experiences, as well. There is so much to consider when making this move, and Verified Movers is going to provide you with all the relevant information that can make your relocation (and the adaptation period) much easier and more enjoyable!

The Benefits of Moving From Texas to Florida

It is usually the best idea to focus on the beneficial parts of the relocation, as opposed to any negative ones.

A beach in Florida
Florida has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

With that in mind, living in Florida will provide you with the following advantages over living in Texas:

  • Great weather
  • Beautiful beaches
  • Amazing outdoor activities
  • Incredible diversity
  • A lot of things to do

As you can see, there is a lot to look forward to. To make the most out of your relocation, you will also want to look into some of the best long distance movers Texas. By having a quality moving company “have your back”, everything becomes much easier, after all. But for now, let’s take a look at some of these benefits in greater detail.

Florida has amazing weather

Even though you might be used to the warm weather, coming from Texas, you will be amazed at the temperatures throughout the whole year. In Florida, most of the year is sunny, around 75 degrees. This is one of the main reasons why the Sunshine State is one of the most popular tourist locations. Florida residents can go to the beach in shorts and flip-flops at any time of the year. There will be no need to worry about winter weather at all! If you are relocating in the summer, it might be a good idea to look into some of the best interstate moving companies South Florida, as they might be able to provide you with a positive relocation experience. They know the area the best, after all, and might provide you with a better deal than Texas-based moving companies!

Gorgeous beaches

If you love to spend your time on a beach, we would argue that there is no better state for you than Florida. Being located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, Florida represents a true paradise for beach lovers. With more than 650 miles of beautiful beaches, you will always have more to explore. Furthermore, each beach town is unique, with its own personality and charm. These towns provide Florida residents with reasons to visit each one of them. Lastly, some of the world’s most beautiful beaches are located in the Sunshine State. And you are never far away from them, either. Living in Florida, you are always within an hour’s drive to at least one beach!

people walking on the beach, showing what you can expect after moving from Texas to Florida
You will never be far away from a beach.

Wide variety of outdoor activities

Another great benefit of moving from Texas to Florida is the fact that you will have access to all sorts of outdoor activities. Whether you like camping, fishing, snorkeling, or anything in between, Florida will be able to accommodate. There are so many places where you can spend an entire day and see only a fraction of what they have to offer while movers are moving your home. A prime example of this is the Everglades National Park, located in South Florida, and various underground caves dotted all over the state. Then there are amazing parks where you can jog, walk, or bike to your heart’s content. Or you might decide to go scuba diving and explore coral reefs?

If you are at least a tiny bit of an outdoor enthusiast, you will love living in Florida. The Sunshine State is a dream come true for outdoor lovers! For example, if you are thinking of moving from Fort Worth to Tampa, you should hire one of the long distance moving companies Fort Worth to help you with the move!

Moving from Texas to Florida offers increased diversity

Florida, as a state, encompasses a huge variety of different cultures. The prominent ones are Hispanic, Latino, Native American, and African American. The cultures influence the architecture, cuisine, and traditions all over the state. Due to this fact, Florida has a huge number of festivals, carnivals, and culinary attractions throughout the year. In Florida, you get a place that celebrates and embraces everyone’s unique differences.

There’s a LOT to do in Florida

We’ve mentioned beaches and parks already but there is a lot more to the state of Florida than that. Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Legoland, Busch Gardens, and Sea World are all based in Florida. Then there’s the Kennedy Space Center, St. Augustine, Everglades, etc. Even for longtime Florida residents, there is always something new to discover, feel, and try out. Moving from Texas to Florida will most likely seem like an adventure of a lifetime!

person holding Universal Studio card
Don’t miss visiting some of the most popular spots in Florida after moving!

The Cost of Living: Florida Vs. Texas

Despite Texas being so popular, many people choose to move from there to Florida. Florida is an affordable option when you compare it to states like New York, California, and many other states. However, when we put it side by side with Texas, the story changes. Living in Florida costs about 10.7% more than in Texas. Let’s break this down. Dining out at restaurants will cost you 13.0% more in the Sunshine State. When it comes to filling up your grocery cart, expect to pay 15.8% more for the same items. Getting around, whether by car or public transport, is 5.8% more expensive. Families will feel the pinch too, with childcare costs rising by 12.7%.

Looking for entertainment or staying active? Budget for an 8.3% increase in expenses. Even updating your wardrobe will see a slight uptick, costing 3.2% more. These figures give a clearer picture of how your budget might shift. Moving from Texas to Florida means adjusting your finances to meet these higher costs. While Florida remains more affordable than many other states, Texans will notice the difference.

a piggy bank
Living in Florida may allow you to save more money.

Florida’s Housing Market

Florida’s housing market shows a diverse range of options, catering to various budgets and lifestyles. The average home value in the state stands at $388,454, marking a 2.5% increase over the past year. For those looking into rental options, the median rent in Florida is $2,500. Yet, prices can vary significantly from city to city. For example, in Weston, FL, the median rent reaches $3,500, showcasing the higher end of the spectrum. On the other hand, Lake City, FL, offers more affordable living, with a median rent of $1,425.

Comparing these figures to Texas, the contrast becomes evident. In Texas, the median rent sits at $1,872, while the average home value is $296,582, which actually decreased by 0.7% over the past year. This comparison highlights not only the higher cost of living in Florida in terms of housing but also the wide variation within the state itself. Whether one is considering buying or renting, Florida provides a spectrum of housing costs, influenced by location, amenities, and the local community. This diversity means that potential residents can find both luxury and affordability within the state’s borders, depending on their preferences and needs.

a view you'll se after moving from Texas to Florida
Explore housing options in Florida!

Economic Opportunities

Both Florida and Texas have great job markets, each with unique sectors driving their economies. Florida shines with opportunities in tourism, agriculture, and aerospace, sectors that fuel its employment landscape. As of January 2024, workers in Florida earn an average of $23.51 an hour, totaling around $48,903 annually. Yet, in some areas like Miami, salaries soar higher, reaching an average of $26.29 an hour or $54,679 per year.

In comparison, Texas, with its robust energy sector, technology, and manufacturing, offers an average hourly wage of $25.26, equating to an annual salary of $52,532. There are also many cities for job seekers in Texas that offer amazing opportunities. Despite the slight edge in average salaries in Texas, Florida’s unemployment rate stands at an impressive 3.00%, lower than Texas’s rate of 4.00%. This indicates a healthy job market in Florida, perhaps driven by its diverse economy and the strength of its key industries.

Both states present attractive economic opportunities, yet the nuances of each state’s job market—such as higher wages in specific Florida cities and a lower unemployment rate—highlight the importance of considering individual sectors and regions when exploring employment prospects.

Lifestyle and Culture

Texas stands out with its deep historical roots and its world-renowned BBQ. Its identity ties closely to cowboy culture, wide-open spaces, and a strong sense of community pride. On the flip side, Florida’s allure lies in its sun-drenched beaches, an array of water sports, and family-friendly attractions. Both states offer an amazing community life, with a mix of urban sophistication and breathtaking natural landscapes.

Whether you’re drawn to the artsy neighborhoods of Miami, the historic streets of San Antonio, or the bustling energy of cities like Austin and Orlando, both Florida and Texas promise diverse experiences. Each state has a unique mix urban and natural attractions. From enjoying the lively arts and music scenes to exploring national parks and enjoying beachfront leisure, life in Texas and Florida offers rich, varied experiences shaped by the unique character of each state.

The dynamic nightlife of Miami awaits Texans looking for a change.

Education Systems

For families considering a move, the quality of education often tops their list of concerns. Both Texas and Florida rise to the occasion with their array of reputable educational institutions. In Florida, families benefit from the presence of leading universities like the University of Florida and Florida State University. On the Texas side, the University of Texas at Austin and Rice University stand out for their academic excellence, rich campus life, and contributions to various fields of study.

Beyond universities, both states offer a diverse range of public and private schools catering to K-12 students, ensuring families have options to suit their educational preferences and needs. Whether it’s the robust STEM programs in Texas schools or the emphasis on arts and humanities in Florida, the educational ecosystems in both states aim to prepare students for a successful future.

While both states have impressive higher education institutions, the choice between Texas and Florida might come down to specific academic programs or the lifestyle each state offers. Families can be sure that whichever state they choose, their children will have access to a quality education that can set the stage for their future success.

Healthcare System Is Also a Thing to Consider Before Moving From Texas to Florida

When comparing the healthcare systems of Florida and Texas, several key factors come into play. Both states provide many healthcare facilities, from world-renowned hospitals to specialized clinics. Florida, with its large retiree population, focuses heavily on geriatric care and related specialties. The state is home to some of the nation’s top hospitals, such as Mayo Clinic Jacksonville and Tampa General Hospital. These institutions are not only leaders in patient care but also medical research and education.

Texas, on the other hand, shines with its medical centers like the Texas Medical Center in Houston, the world’s largest medical complex, and MD Anderson Cancer Center, a leading cancer treatment facility. Texas has a strong focus on innovation in healthcare, with significant investments in research and development.

Despite these strengths, both states face challenges such as healthcare accessibility and insurance coverage gaps. Florida and Texas have some of the highest uninsured rates in the nation, affecting access to healthcare for many residents. However, both states are making strides to improve healthcare delivery and expand coverage through various initiatives. In terms of healthcare quality, both Florida and Texas offer excellent services, with facilities that are recognized nationally and internationally.

medical equipment
Florida has some of the best healthcare institutions in the USA.

The Most Popular Cities in Florida

Florida attracts millions of visitors and new residents each year. Its cities offer diverse experiences, from amazing nightlife and cultural richness to serene beaches and parks. Here are some of the most popular cities in Florida:

  • Miami: Known for its lively culture, beautiful beaches, and art deco architecture. Miami is a hub for finance, commerce, culture, arts, and international trade. It hosts the world-famous Miami Beach.
  • Orlando: Famous for Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, Orlando is not just a dream destination for families; it’s also booming in tech and innovation sectors.
  • Tampa: Offers a mix of historic architecture, modern landmarks, and a waterfront area. Tampa is known for its cultural offerings and as the home to the University of South Florida.
  • Jacksonville: The largest city by area in the contiguous U.S., Jacksonville provides extensive park systems, beautiful beaches, and a growing financial sector.
  • Fort Lauderdale: Famous for its boating canals and stunning beaches. Fort Lauderdale is a prime location for tourism, with a bustling nightlife.
  • Sarasota: Known for its cultural institutions, such as the Ringling Museum of Art, and beautiful beaches like Siesta Key, Sarasota is a haven for arts lovers and beachgoers alike.
  • Naples: Offers luxurious lifestyles, high-end shopping, and fine dining, along with some of the best golf courses and white-sand beaches.

Each city in Florida has its unique charm, offering residents and visitors a wide range of activities, from outdoor adventures in natural parks to cultural experiences in museums and galleries. Whether you’re drawn to the hustle and bustle of Miami’s streets or the tranquil retreats of Naples, Florida’s cities cater to all tastes and lifestyles.

Preparing for the Move

Preparing for a move requires careful planning and organization. Start the process by decluttering your home. Sort through your belongings and decide what to keep, sell, or donate. This step not only simplifies packing but also reduces moving costs. Next, it’s crucial to research and compare moving companies. Check if company brings packing materials and look for reliable services with positive reviews and get multiple quotes to ensure you get the best deal.

Timing your move can also play a significant role in your experience. Opting to move during the off-peak season, from September to April, can offer several benefits. During these months, you’re likely to encounter lower rates from moving companies. Additionally, the cooler temperatures make the physical move more comfortable for everyone involved.

Another important aspect is setting up utilities and services at your new home before you arrive. This allows you to settle in without unnecessary stress. Don’t forget to prepare an essentials box with items you’ll need immediately upon arrival can be a lifesaver. This box could include toiletries, a change of clothes, chargers, and snacks. One more thing, don’t forget to prepare your vehicle for an interstate move. Planning ahead allows you to address potential challenges before they arise, leading to a successful relocation.

man standing among boxes
Make sure to hire the right movers for moving from Texas to Florida!

Make the Most of Your Move!

Moving from Texas to Florida marks a significant life event, filled with new opportunities and adventures. Planning your move with care ensures a successful relocation. Remember to declutter, research moving companies, and aim for the off-peak season to save on costs. Both states offer unique lifestyles, with Florida’s beaches and lively communities waiting to welcome you. Look forward to the diverse culture, scenic landscapes, and warm climate that Florida offers. Making this move not only introduces you to new experiences but also allows you to grow and explore in ways Texas has prepared you for. Welcome to Florida, where new adventures await at every corner!