Florida: Sunshine, safety, and accessibility to achieve your dreams.
Living in Florida
Americans crave sunshine, safety, and affordability—and when it comes to finding all three, Florida stands out as the most desirable state to live, according to a recent survey by Clever Real Estate.
Americans’ Conflicted Feelings About Where They Live
While 73% of Americans say they like where they live, many are still frustrated with their current city or state. In fact, 59% express dissatisfaction, and 43% feel embarrassed by where they live. Despite these mixed feelings, nearly 84% of Americans say they could be convinced to relocate if the opportunity arose.
Many want to move but face financial barriers—50% say they can’t afford to live in a more desirable location. So, where do Americans dream of moving when given the chance? The answer is clear: places that offer safety, good weather, and affordability.
What Americans Want in a New Home
The study revealed that Americans’ top priorities when choosing a place to live are:
- Low crime rates (68%)
- Affordable living and housing costs (66%)
- Good weather (62%)
- Low taxes (52%)
- These preferences also shape where Americans don’t want to live. High crime, expensive living, and harsh weather are significant deal-breakers.
Tampa: The Most Desirable City in the U.S.
Given Americans’ focus on affordability, sunshine, and safety, it’s no surprise that Tampa, Florida, took the top spot as the most desirable city in the country. Tampa offers year-round warm weather, no state income taxes, a lower crime rate, and more affordable housing than other Florida hotspots like Orlando and Miami.
With a median home value of $361,177, Tampa is more affordable than Orlando ($379,039) and Miami ($441,339). According to Kirstin Albert from the Tampa Convention Center, the city’s appeal goes beyond its affordability. “Our vibrant community, incredible waterfront, and year-round outdoor activities make Tampa an ideal place to live.”
Florida Dominates the Most Desirable Cities List
In addition to Tampa, Florida is home to several other top cities where Americans want to live. Orlando, Cape Coral, and Palm Bay were all named among the most desirable midsize metros. Florida’s combination of affordability, strong job market, and outdoor lifestyle make it an attractive destination for homebuyers and investors alike.
The Sunshine State: America’s Most Desirable State
Florida topped the list of most desirable states, with more than one-third of respondents ranking it among their top five. The state offers many of the same benefits as California—warm weather and beautiful scenery—but with a lower cost of living and no state income tax, making it an even more attractive option.
While California, Texas, and New York also rank highly, Florida outshines these states when it comes to affordability and quality of life. With no major cities from California, New York, or Texas cracking the top 10, Florida continues to prove itself as the preferred choice for those seeking a better life.
Real Estate Opportunities in Florida
Given Florida’s appeal, now is an ideal time to invest in the state’s thriving real estate market. From Tampa to Orlando, homebuyers can find a wide range of properties that offer excellent value for money. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home, an investment property, or a primary residence, Florida provides numerous opportunities to build long-term wealth while enjoying an unparalleled lifestyle.
Ready to Move to Florida?
With its unbeatable combination of affordability, safety, and sunshine, Florida is the perfect place to call home.