Blog Image

When making the big decision to move from New York to Florida, it’s important to plan for your long distance move accordingly. Unlike moving across town, you don’t have the easy option to make multiple trips.

With a bustling population of 20,271,272 in 2015, Florida is the third largest state by population, surpassing New York for the #3 spot in 2014. A popular destination for vacationers and New Yorkers looking to relocate (seriously… approximately 50,000 New Yorkers truck it down south each year), the Sunshine State is widely known for its 663 miles of sandy beaches and tropical weather.

But if you’re choosing Florida as your new home, then you already know about the beaches.

With 282 cities in Florida to choose from, it can be a little hard to figure out which city is best for you to settle down in. Although we can’t go in to every single one, here are six of the most affordable cities to move to in Florida, according to Livability: 

Kissimmee

Moving to Kissimmee FloridaPhoto Credit: Active Rain

Population: 69,152

Median Home Price: $146,800

Median Age: 33.6

A city that’s bursting with entertainment, outdoor recreation and plenty to do, Kissimmee is more than just a tourist attraction. Close to all major highways, and with some of the most affordable homes in the state, it’s the perfect hub for those looking to be by the action while also living in an area with strong job growth and potential.

Palm Coast

Moving to Palm CoastPhoto Credit: Pinterest

Population: 82,893

Median Home Price: $185,300

Median Age: 46.5

For those looking to settle down in a relaxing city with ample sunshine, Palm Coast is for you. Enjoy ocean breezes, scenic views and an easy-going atmosphere here. Perfect for retirees who love the outdoors, Palm Coast is located on the upper east coast of Florida, so it’s not as hurricane prone as some other cities.

 

Cape Coral

Moving to Cape CoralPhoto Credit: Reliance Home Builders

Population: 175,229

Median Home Price: $201,600

Median Age: 43.4

The biggest city between Tampa and Miami, Cape Coral is home to 400 miles of canals, more than any other city in the world. Nicknamed the “Waterfront Wonderland,” Cape Coral is known for its fishing and boating, along with tons of outdoor and indoor recreational activities.  

 

Palm Bay

Moving to Palm BayPhoto Credit: Investopedia

Population: 107,888

Median Home Price: $134,400

Median Age: 40.6

Dotted with sabal palm trees, Palm Bay is located on Florida’s east central coast and is locally known as Central Florida’s best kept secret. A city that is rich in natural resources, outdoor activities, plenty of sunshine and scenic views, Palm Bay is a hidden gem that offers affordable home prices and booming telecommunications and technology industries.

 

Orlando

Moving to OrlandoPhoto Credit: Website Box

Population: 270,934

Median Home Price: $157,600

Median Age: 33

Don’t move to Orlando if you’re not ready for some serious tourists. Named one of the 100 Best Places to Live, Orlando isn’t just all theme parks and Mickey Mouse. Home to 25 colleges and universities, quality healthcare and tons of amenities and activities, it’s no surprise that this is literally home to the Happiest Place on Earth.  

 

Gainesville

Moving to GainesvillePhoto Credit: Gainesville Chamber

Population: 130,128

Median Home Price: $155,100

Median Age: 25.1

Are you a sucker for foliage? Dubbed “Tree City, USA,” Gainesville is shaded by a dense and richly diverse array of trees, making it the perfect location for photographers. Home to the Florida Gators, the epicenter of this city is the University of Florida, creating an electric buzz everywhere you go. With tons of bars, nightclubs, restaurants, museums, theaters AND a mini rain forest, there’s always something to do in Gainesville.


Florida Homes: “The Florida Style”

Florida Style HomesPhoto Credit: Lotus Architecture

With many architectural influences from coastal Mediterranean towns, Florida Style homes tend to have heavy Spanish and/or Mediterranean accents.

  • Home plans are bold and often include a two-story entryway flanked by columns
  • Low slung rooftops are common, typically made with red clay tiles and a stucco exterior
  • Interiors tend to be very open and airy, without the restriction of many walls to separate rooms
  • Most backyards have a terrace, deck or patio that borders an inground pool, dotted with lush foliage

 

View some Mediterranean Modern Homes to get in Floridian mood.


Here are some fun facts you might not know about The Sunshine State, along with some necessities that will be crucial to a functioning and safe life down the east coast. 

  • Gatorade was first developed in Gainesville for the University of Florida’s Florida Gators 
  • Key West has the highest average temperature in the country 
  • Florida has more golf courses than any other state
  • Jacksonville is the largest city by area in the nation
  • Some of Florida’s favorite foods include oranges, ice cream, Cubanos (or Cuban sandwiches), sweet tea, Caribbean food and margaritas.
  • No matter where you are in Florida, you’re never more than 60 miles away from a body of salt water
  • Miami’s art deco district contains the world’s largest collection of Art Deco Architecture, boasting an impressive 800+ buildings
  • It’s a good idea to do your utility research in order to have all of your necessities smoothed out before arriving. By having your water, electricity, cable, gas, etc. all set and ready to go, it will make the stress of the move that much lighter

Weighing out your options? Learn about some pros and cons when moving to Florida.


With 1,152.9 miles laid out between NYC and Florida, the relocation process can seem daunting, but with the right tools and professional movers, even a long move can be as sweet as a warm tropical breeze. 

NYC to Florida

Check out these 4 tips for a successful long distance move from New York to Florida:

1. Give yourself extra planning time

With a long distance move, it’s crucial to give extra attention to the planning process. Make sure that you start preparing at least eight weeks prior to your moving date. Unlike with a regular local move, you probably won’t have much opportunity to make multiple trips, so ensuring that everything is executed smoothly from the beginning is essential to keep yourself headache free.

Pro Tip: It is important to check on the moving truck accessibility in the aforementioned locations. Additional charges are incurred if the household goods need to be transferred to a smaller truck for a gated community, ferry to island or downtown.

Make sure that you start preparing at least eight weeks prior to your moving date.

2. The sturdier the box, the better

Make sure that you invest in some good, durable moving boxes. Your most prized and personal possessions are going to be making their way down the east coast, so it’s imperative that they are protected as best they can be.

Pro Tip: Check out your local liquor stores, banks, etc. They tend to give boxes away for free!

 

3. Pack smart

Think about your current items – think about what you absolutely NEED, and what can likely get tossed or donated. When moving long distance, the lighter your load the better. Bring your essentials, but consider getting rid of that old ironing board and investing in some new kitchen appliances once you’re settled in.

 

4. Take inventory and detail those boxes

When moving over 1,000 miles away, it pays to be extra organized. Take pictures of all of your belongings so that you know exactly what you are or aren’t bringing with you. And don’t forget to label those boxes as detailed as possible – nothing is worse than getting to an empty house with a truckload of unlabeled or sort of labeled boxes. The better you detail your boxes, the easier it will be when you start unpacking and filling your new space.

 

Share this post

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *