Nomad Lifestyle

Private Schools

B+

Family Friendly

B+

Single Friendly

Senior Friendly

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Weather

B-

Cost of Living

A-

Recreation

Nightlife

Restaurants

C+

Crime

Digital Nomad Exchange > Florida

Florida

Coastal Beaches

Cost of Living: Moderate

Train Access: Yes (amtrak, brightline, tri-rail, sunrail, very safe)

Bus Service: Yes (Greyhound, Megabus, RedCoach, relatively safe)

Florida, known as the Sunshine State, is a diverse and dynamic state located in the southeastern region of the United States. It is renowned for its warm climate, extensive coastlines, and a variety of attractions that draw millions of visitors each year. The state is characterized by a flat landscape, with the highest point being only 345 feet above sea level. Florida's geography is marked by a mix of sprawling urban areas, such as Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, and natural wonders like the Everglades National Park, a vast wetland that is home to a unique ecosystem and numerous endangered species. The state's economy is driven by tourism, agriculture, and international trade, with oranges and grapefruits being some of its most famous exports. Florida also hosts a number of theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, which contribute significantly to its economy. The state's cultural tapestry is rich and varied, with influences from Latin America and the Caribbean evident in its music, food, and festivals. Florida's education system includes several notable institutions, such as the University of Florida and Florida State University. The state's political climate is known for its swing state status, often playing a pivotal role in national elections. Florida's population is diverse, with a significant Hispanic community and a growing number of retirees who are attracted to its mild winters and relaxed lifestyle. Despite the occasional threat of hurricanes, Florida's residents and government have developed robust systems for weather-related emergencies. Overall, Florida offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and economic opportunity, making it a vibrant and attractive place to live, work, and visit.

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Podcasts

Episode 8: Jake Barber - The Expat Finance Expert Returns

Jake Barber, the Founder and CEO of SJB Global, is a life-long expat and an expert in expat finance. Over the course of Expat Exchange's nearly 30 years online, there are few people we have met with as much lived experience and professional acumen as Jake. We were thrilled to welcome him back to the show and look forward to having him on again!

Episode 6: Jake Barber - Expat Finance Expert and Lifelong Expat

Jake Barber is an expat finance expert and the founder and principal of SJB Global. A lifelong expat currently living in Marbella, Spain, Jake has vast experience helping expats from the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries manage their finances while living abroad. Get a primer on what you need to know both before and after you move abroad!

Best Places to Live in Florida

Discover the top-ranked towns in Florida. Click on the town's name for a full profile of each town.

Rankings are based on a combination of many factors including schools, recreation, family-friendliness, cost of living and crime.

Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Florida on our Florida forum - meet people, get advice and help others.

Visit the Florida Community

Cost of Living

Florida's cost of living is considered moderate, with expenses such as housing and utilities being relatively affordable compared to other states with similar climates and amenities. However, some areas, particularly popular tourist destinations and coastal cities, may have a higher cost of living due to increased demand for real estate and services.

Weather

Florida has a predominantly tropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild, drier winters. The state is known for its frequent thunderstorms, especially in the central region, and is also prone to hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season from June to November. Coastal areas enjoy breezes that can moderate the heat, while the interior can experience higher temperatures.

Educational System in Florida

The educational system in Florida is diverse and serves students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. Public education is managed at the state level by the Florida Department of Education, which sets standards and policies for all schools. Children typically start school with kindergarten at the age of five or six, and they complete their education with 12th grade at around the age of 18. The grade levels are divided into elementary school (kindergarten to 5th grade), middle school (6th to 8th grade), and high school (9th to 12th grade). Florida also offers various options for education, including public schools, charter schools, magnet schools, private schools, and homeschooling. The state has implemented the Florida Standards, which outline what students should know at each grade level, and students take standardized tests to assess their progress. High school students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement (AP) courses and exams, which can earn them college credit. Additionally, Florida's Dual Enrollment program allows high school students to take courses at local colleges and universities for both high school and college credit. The state also has a voluntary pre-kindergarten program for four-year-olds, which focuses on early literacy and learning skills to prepare children for kindergarten. Parents moving to Florida from another country will find a range of educational options to choose from, with a focus on preparing students for college and careers

Universities in Florida

University Costs: moderate

The university system in Florida is extensive and includes public universities, private universities, and community colleges. The State University System of Florida comprises 12 public universities, including the University of Florida and Florida State University, which offer a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs. Admission to these universities is competitive, and they are known for their research programs and diverse student bodies. Private universities in Florida, such as the University of Miami and Rollins College, also offer high-quality education with a variety of degree programs. Community colleges in Florida provide two-year associate degrees and technical certifications, with the option for students to transfer to four-year universities to complete their bachelor's degrees. The academic year typically starts in August or September and ends in May or June, with the option for students to take summer courses. Undergraduate degrees usually take four years to complete, while graduate degrees can take anywhere from two to six years, depending on the field of study. For international students, the application process includes providing proof of English proficiency, academic transcripts, and financial support. Universities in Florida offer resources such as international student offices to help with the transition to studying in the United States. Costs for attending university in Florida vary depending on the institution and whether it is public or private, but financial aid and scholarships are available to help offset expenses