Thinking about making the big move to Florida? You’re definitely not alone. From the beautiful beaches and warm weather to outdoor adventures and no state income tax, Florida keeps attracting new residents every year. But while the Sunshine State has a lot going for it, the decision isn’t as simple as packing your bags and heading south—especially for families with kids.
A recent Reddit thread captured this dilemma perfectly. The original poster (OP) described their love for the Florida lifestyle—visits to St. Pete and St. Augustine, water sports like kayaking and scuba diving, and a deep dislike for cold winters. They work remotely, won’t need to job hunt, and even though Florida doesn’t have mountains, the flat terrain was a selling point for daily life.
But like many parents thinking of moving, one major concern popped up: schools. Is it really a good idea to move to Florida when you have kids? Let’s break down what real families shared:
On the Niches website, we found the best places to live in the state of Florida according to different rankings:
Florida Public Schools: A Mixed Bag
The school system in Florida came up over and over again in the conversation—and it wasn’t pretty. While some counties like St. Johns and Pinellas used to have great reputations, many families now report overcrowded classrooms, teacher shortages, and a noticeable decline in academic quality. Some parents shared stories of losing multiple teachers during the school year, leaving kids without consistent instruction.
The consensus? If you can afford private or specialized charter/magnet schools, your child will likely get a decent education. But for families relying solely on public schools, it may require serious research to find good districts, and those often come with hefty home prices.
https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/florida/rankings
The Cost of Living is Rising Quickly
Florida may not have a state income tax, but that doesn’t mean it’s cheap. Homeowners insurance is a major sticking point, especially in coastal areas or flood zones. Some families reported paying anywhere from $4,500 to $20,000 per year for homeowners insurance alone. Why? Hurricanes, aging infrastructure, and insurers pulling out of the market.
On top of that, car insurance, groceries, and property taxes continue to creep higher. Families making middle-class incomes have shared that it’s getting harder to stay financially comfortable, even without children in private schools.
Weather: Love It or Hate It
If you despise cold winters and love outdoor living, Florida delivers. Winters are beautiful, and access to water sports, biking trails (like the Pinellas Trail in St. Pete), and beaches are major lifestyle perks. But summers? Brutally hot and humid, with mosquitoes and daily thunderstorms.
Many people in the thread echoed this: If you love the heat, you’ll thrive. If you don’t, it can be a dealbreaker.
Politics and Culture Shock
One concern voiced by the OP was about politics and the general social vibe. While Florida leans conservative statewide, cities like St. Pete, Miami, and parts of Orlando tend to be more liberal or centrist. Several people emphasized that everyday life isn’t as politically charged as it might seem online. You’ll likely find community based on your personal interests, hobbies, and parenting groups rather than politics alone.
Infrastructure Growing Pains
Several long-time residents brought up ongoing issues with infrastructure: outdated plumbing, flooding even during heavy rains, and traffic that’s only getting worse. In St. Pete specifically, the aging water systems and lack of investment in flood prevention are frustrating homeowners.
Final Thoughts: Is Moving to Florida Right for You?
Here’s the reality: Florida can absolutely be a great place to live, especially if you love warm weather, the outdoors, and bring your job with you. But it’s not without serious challenges, especially for families with children in public schools.
If you’re considering the move, here’s some advice straight from Floridians:
- Research neighborhoods street by street for school quality and flood zones.
- Budget for much higher home and car insurance than you might expect.
- Visit in the summer to make sure you can handle the heat before committing.
- Consider alternatives like parts of North Carolina, South Carolina, or even areas around Orlando or Viera, where schools may be stronger.
Most importantly: It’s not crazy to move to Florida, but it’s also not the easy paradise social media sometimes promises.
Do your homework, weigh your priorities, and make the decision that fits your family’s future.
Thinking about moving to Florida? Drop your questions below or reach out to us for personalized guidance on neighborhoods, schools, and finding the right fit for your lifestyle.
