Retiring to Florida is like diving into a big bowl of tropical fruit salad – it’s colorful, varied, and you never quite know what you’re going to get until you take a bite. Trisha Torrey and her husband, Butch Kritsberg, did just that in 2016, swapping the frosty Northeast for Florida’s warmth. But as they and many others have discovered, retiring in the Sunshine State is a mix of sweet and tart flavors.
The Sweet Side of Florida Retirement
1. Sun, Sun, and More Sun: Florida is lovingly dubbed the Sunshine State for a reason. With an average annual temperature of 72 degrees, it’s a winter-weary Northerner’s dream. Imagine swapping snow boots for sandals and ice scrapers for sunscreen. Bliss!
2. Tax Haven: Florida rolls out the red carpet for retirees with its tax-friendly policies. No state income taxes here! Your 401(k), Social Security benefits, and any earnings from a post-retirement gig are all yours. Plus, there are property tax breaks to sweeten the deal even more.
3. Endless Entertainment and Recreation: Florida isn’t just about lounging on the beach (although, that’s a big perk). It boasts 825 miles of accessible beaches, over 1,200 golf courses, and iconic attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. Retirement boredom? Not a chance!
4. Accessibility and Connections: With 19 commercial airports and a vibrant snowbird community, Florida makes staying connected a breeze. Whether it’s jetting off on a new adventure or hosting the grandkids for a Disney vacation, it’s all at your fingertips.
5. Community Vibes: In Florida, finding friends who share your interests (and age bracket) is as easy as finding oranges in an orchard. Communities like The Villages offer everything from golf to bocce ball, ensuring your social calendar is as full as you want it to be.
The Not-So-Sweet Side
1. Heat and Humidity: Florida’s summers are not just warm – they’re sizzling. The humidity can turn a day outside into a sauna session, and for older adults, this isn’t just uncomfortable; it can be a health hazard.
2. Hurricane Season: From June to November, Floridians keep one eye on the weather forecast. Hurricanes like Ian remind residents that living in paradise comes with its risks – both physical and financial.
3. Insurance Woes: Speaking of hurricanes, insuring a home in Florida can be as costly as a fancy dinner every month. The state leads the nation in homeowners’ insurance rates, and with private insurers heading for the hills, many are left with limited, pricier options.
4. Tourist Tides: Florida’s tourist attractions are a double-edged sword. While they’re great for the economy, they can make simple errands a test of patience. Traffic jams and crowded beaches are part of the package deal.
5. Critter Encounters: Alligators in the backyard pool? Roof rats? Welcome to Florida, where wildlife encounters are more common than you might think. Let’s just say pest control is one number you’ll want to keep handy.
To Retire or Not to Retire in Florida?
In the end, retiring in Florida is like picking your favorite ice cream flavor – it’s all about personal taste. Sure, the state offers a sunny, tax-friendly embrace, but it also brings heat, humidity, and the occasional hurricane party. For some, like the Tettings from Leesburg, it’s the perfect blend of community and climate. But remember, what’s paradise for one might be too hot to handle for another.
So, if you’re considering joining the flock of retirees to Florida, weigh the pros and cons. Maybe you’ll find your perfect retirement nest under the Florida sun, or perhaps you’ll decide to admire its oranges and ocean from a distance. Either way, happy retirement planning!
