Sunshine State… Until You Read the Fine Print
- Jaime Hechtman Ulloa
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Florida Dreams vs. Reality — What New Yorkers Need to Know Before Making the Move
By Jaime Hechtman Ulloa
Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
Patriot Real Properties
631.664.0268
Every week, I hear it.
“Maybe we should just move to Florida.”
“Everyone’s leaving New York anyway.”
“No state income tax…. how can you beat that?”
And I understand the appeal.
For years, Florida has been painted as the ultimate escape for New Yorkers; lower taxes, warm weather, booming development, and a lifestyle that feels like a fresh start.
But what I want to do in this brief is give you the real picture….not the headlines, not the hype, but what’s actually happening right now.
Because like everything in real estate…
there’s always more to the story.
Why Florida Became the “Exit Plan” for New Yorkers
Let’s start with the obvious.
New York has been losing residents, and yes, estimates have suggested hundreds to over 1,000 people per day leaving the state at certain points in recent years, driven by affordability, taxes, and lifestyle changes.
Florida quickly became one of the top destinations.
Why?
1. No State Income Tax
Florida has 0% state income tax, compared to New York’s top rates exceeding 10% for high earners.
For many, that alone feels like a game-changer.
2. Property Taxes (Lower… but not simple)
Florida’s effective property tax rate is generally lower than New York.
NY average: ~1.6%–2.0% (often higher on Long Island)
Florida average: ~0.8%–1.0%
But here’s what many people miss…
Florida property taxes can reset to full market value after purchase. New York homeowners often benefit from long-term assessed value protections
So while taxes may look lower on paper, your starting point can be much higher in Florida depending on when you buy.
3. Sales Tax
Florida: ~6% state + local (typically ~6.5%–7.5%)
New York: ~8.625% in many Long Island areas
So yes, there is some savings there.
So What’s the Catch?
Here’s where the conversation changes and where I spend a lot of time educating my clients.
Because Florida is no longer the “cheap alternative” people think it is.
The “Sunshine Squeeze” Is Real
A recent study from Florida Atlantic University found that nearly half of Floridians are seriously considering leaving the state due to rising costs.
Think about that. People moved to Florida for affordability…
and now many are thinking about leaving for the same reason.
What’s Driving Costs Up in Florida?
1. Insurance — The Biggest Shock
This is the number one issue I hear from clients after they move.
Homeowners insurance has skyrocketed
Some policies are being dropped entirely
Flood insurance is often required and expensive
In many cases, what buyers saved in taxes…they are now paying in insurance.
2. Housing Prices Surge
Florida saw massive price appreciation during the migration boom. Areas that once felt affordable are now:
Highly competitive
Overbuilt in some regions
Pricing out even local residents
3. Cost of Living Is Rising Fast
Between:
Insurance
HOA fees
Property taxes resetting
General inflation
Florida is experiencing what experts are calling a “sunshine squeeze” where the cost of living is catching up quickly to demand.
And Here’s What New Yorkers Need to Understand
Florida is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Yes, it can absolutely make sense for some people:
Retirees
High-income earners looking to reduce tax burden
Remote workers seeking lifestyle change
But for many Long Islanders, the decision is more complex.
What I See From My Clients
When New Yorkers move to Florida, I often hear:
“We love the weather”
“It feels like a different pace of life”
But also:
“We didn’t expect the insurance costs”
“We didn’t realize how much everything adds up”
“We miss the stability of home”
Why This Matters for Long Island
Here’s the part people don’t always talk about.
As people leave New York:
Inventory shifts
Buyer demand changes
Pricing adjusts over time
But Long Island is still… Long Island.
We have:
Proximity to NYC
Strong communities
Limited land and inventory
Consistent long-term demand
And that matters.
Because while people talk about leaving…many also come back.
My Advice As a Local Agent
Before making a move based on headlines or trends, ask yourself:
Am I moving for financial reasons, lifestyle, or both?
Have I compared total monthly cost — not just taxes?
What does my long-term plan look like?
Because real estate decisions should never be based on perception alone. They should be based on your numbers, your life, and your goals.
Florida may still be part of the conversation. But it’s no longer the simple answer. And Long Island, despite its challenges, continues to hold long-term value, stability, and opportunity in ways that many people don’t fully appreciate until they leave.
If you’re thinking about relocating, investing, or just trying to understand your options, I’m always here to help you walk through it clearly and honestly.
Jaime Hechtman Ulloa
Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
Patriot Real Properties
631.664.0268
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