Generally, spring and fall are considered the most favorable times, but there are plenty of advantages to making Florida your new home at any time of the year. We’re here with this moving to Florida guide to walk you through seasonal considerations, tax perks, and some of the things you’ll want to consider before establishing residency in the Sunshine State.

Spring: The Sweet Spot for Moving

March through May is widely considered to be the best time of the year for new Florida residents to settle in. The weather is warm but not yet sweltering, with average highs of around 70s to 80s. That means you’ll be able to unpack your boxes and start enjoying your new home without worrying about extreme summer heat.

Spring is also a wonderful time to get out and explore your new community if you’re relocating from out of state. Farmers markets, festivals, and outdoor events are in full swing at this time of the year, giving you plenty of opportunities to meet your new neighbors and discover the local hotspots. For families with children, moving in the late spring once school is out can give you extra buffer time to settle in before the start of the new school year.

Another perk? The real estate market often becomes more active in the spring, with more listings hitting the market and giving you a wider range of residential properties to choose from.

Fall: Another Great time of Year to Move to Florida

If spring doesn’t work for your schedule, fall is a great alternative. From September to November, temperatures begin to dip from the summer highs. Moving companies also tend to be less busy compared to peak months, which can mean better availability and potentially lower costs.

Fall also aligns well for buyers looking to close on their home before the holiday season—imagine it now, settling into your new life and celebrating Thanksgiving in your new Florida home! Moving in the fall means you’ll get to enjoy the cooler winter season and prepare for the year ahead in the Sunshine State.

Winter: Relocating to the Sun

Winter in Florida is one of the busiest times for tourism, for good reason too—mild weather and sunny skies draw millions of visitors escaping colder climates. For new residents, this can mean the most comfortable moving conditions with no snow or ice to worry about, and no heavy winter coats to drive across the state line!

If you’re planning a move from further north, winter relocation can help you avoid navigating harsh weather during the transition. The downside of a winter move is that demand for moving services may be higher, and some communities experience increased traffic from ‘snow birds’ arriving in to town to enjoy the warm weather for the next few months. If you’re eager to leave the winter weather behind you, a winter relocation can still be a great strategic choice. 

Summer: Sometimes Necessary

While summer in Florida is hot, humid, and home to afternoon thunderstorms, it’s also one of the busiest moving seasons around the country. Families often move in the summer to avoid disrupting the school year, and those relocating for work may need to begin new jobs mid-year.

If summer is your best option, take steps to prepare ahead of time. Schedule movers early, pack efficiently to minimize time outdoors, and stay hydrated on moving day. One of the biggest benefits of moving in the summer is that you’ll already be acclimated to Florida’s warm climate by the time fall and winter arrive!

The Perks of Relocating to Florida

Regardless of when you choose to make your big move, Florida life offers undeniable financial and lifestyle benefits to its residents.

With no state income tax, Florida residents get to keep more of their paycheck every month. This can also be an important consideration when you’re thinking about the cost of moving to Florida from out of state. There’s also a homestead exemption, where homeowners may qualify for significant property tax savings on their new home. But really, the biggest reason that people move to Florida is the lifestyle perk! Year-round access to sunshine, endless beaches to explore all year long, outdoor recreation opportunities, and thriving communities like Ocala, known for its equestrian culture and centralized location, are just some of the reasons that people choose to move to Florida.

Florida Relocation: Tips Before Your Move

We recommend having a plan in place before your move. Keep in mind the following: 

• • • Schedule your movers well in advance, especially during busy spring and summer months.
    • Budget for unexpected costs, including travel expenses and initial utilities in your new home.
    • Take time to explore local services, parks, and schools before finalizing your home purchase.

How to Establish Residency in Florida

Once you’ve decided to make your move and have chosen the best time to move to Florida, the next step is establishing your residency in the state. Remember to take care of these essential steps:

• • • Update your driver’s license and vehicle registration. You’ll need to complete this at the Florida Dept of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles within 30 days of moving.
    • Register to vote in your new county.
    • File a Declaration of Domicile with your local county court if you want extra proof of your new Florida residency.
    • Update your address with banks, credit cards, insurance companies, and USPS.
    • Apply for the Florida Homestead Exemption if you’ve purchased a home that qualifies, and you plan to make it your primary residence.

Should You Hire a Realtor to Move to Florida?

Relocating to Florida involves more than just moving boxes. Understanding neighborhoods, school districts, commute patterns, and community culture can make or break your transition to your new home. That’s why working with a local realtor can really pay off. For first time homebuyers navigating the Florida homebuying process, there’s a lot to consider in terms of financial costs, including closing costs on your new property. Having an experienced central Florida realtor by your side can help you stay informed and avoid unexpected expenses.

 At Showcase Properties, we specialize in helping out-of-state buyers feel at home the moment they arrive. Our team can recommend the best neighborhoods for your lifestyle and budget, whether you’re drawn to equestrian properties, a family-friendly suburb, or more modern condos and townhouses in the center of it all.  We invite you to take advantage of our local expertise for community recommendations and insider knowledge.

 We also offer resources for first-time buyers exploring Florida open houses, and we can guide you through every stage of the transition.

Start Looking for Your New Home Today!

No matter the season, Florida offers plenty of benefits that make relocating from out-of-state worthwhile. The sunshine, lifestyle perks, and financial advantages all extend far beyond moving day! With a personalized plan to move to Florida and the right local support, your transition can be smooth and memorable. Showcase Properties can help you every step of the way, from browsing listings to closing on your dream home. Explore our local listings and take a look at our blog for resources on how you can make your relocation to Florida a reality! Contact us today for personalized guidance and expert support as you plan your move to Florida.