Loading...
Homes For Sale In Florida
Many relocators consider a move to Florida for its sunny weather, iconic beaches, abundant recreation, and laid-back lifestyle, but there's more to the Sunshine State than meets the eye. Florida real estate remains a popular choice among retirees, families, and singles for the low unemployment rate, moderate cost of living driven by the lack of state income tax, good schools, and plentiful day-to-day amenities. Whether you're looking for a cozy bungalow or a spacious inland estate, there are homes for sale in Florida for every taste and budget.
Florida Homes For Sale
Despite facing some challenges, the Florida real estate market continues to be one of the most robust in the United States and is expected to maintain its strength over the next five years. The leading real estate type in the state is the single-family home, comprising 54.8% of the housing supply.
According to recent reports from Florida Realtors MLS, the homes for sale in Florida have grown by 3.9% in the last year, jumping from having a median price of $385K in the first quarter of 2022 to their current price of $399.9K. This number is still under the median home sale price in the country, currently sitting at $436.8K.
NeighborhoodScout's data indicates that Florida's real estate has experienced a 282.35% increase over the last decade, resulting in an annual home appreciation rate of 6.14%. For the past ten years, Florida homes for sale have been an excellent long-term investment in the United States for buyers and real estate investors.
A Diverse Market
One of the best features of the Florida real estate market is its diversity. Each area has its own unique charm and character, offering a range of Florida homes for sale to fit different lifestyles and budgets.
There are homes here to please every type of homebuyer, from small, starter houses near urban centers perfect for active retirees to modern new-builds in tranquil suburban communities with enough space to accommodate families of all sizes.
Affordability
With strong population growth, desirable tax benefits, and a diverse economy driven by tourism, Floridian cities like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando lead the housing demand in the state. They also lead as high-valued markets.
However, Florida real estate prices vary greatly depending on location. Buyers looking for more affordability should look at Florida homes for sale in cities and towns that are smaller, less touristy, and sometimes inland, like Lakeland and Ocala.
Florida City Sampler
Tallahassee
Tallahassee may not be the first city that comes to mind when considering Florida, but it's worth a second look. With its unique blend of southern hospitality and modern city amenities, Tallahassee is one of the top destinations to purchase homes for sale in Florida.
The Tallahassee homes for sale are listed at a median price of $299K, which shows a 19.6% increase compared to the previous year. The housing market in Tallahassee is diverse and offers numerous opportunities for first-time buyers, those looking to upgrade, and those seeking a change of scenery.
Whether you're drawn to the historic districts, the quiet suburbs, or the bustling downtown scene, Tallahassee has something to offer anyone looking to call Florida home. Tallahassee is also a college town, home to Florida State University. According to Southern Living, the city ranked 13th among South's Best College Towns.
Jacksonville
The largest city in Florida shows a healthy, fast-growing housing market with plenty of Florida homes for sale across 500 distinct communities and suburbs. Jax is perfect for those who love Florida's sunny, beachy atmosphere without the hustle and bustle of major tourist spots like Miami.
If you're looking to buy a house in Florida, many options of different styles are available, including Colonial, Plantation, and Shotgun-style houses, all with that quintessential Florida vibe.
Jacksonville offers a quieter, more laid-back lifestyle but still has all the amenities you need to feel comfortable. The typical Jacksonville home for sale costs a median price of $304.9K.
Tampa
Tampa, fondly named The Big Guava, is a city on Florida's western coast known for its vibrant culture, stunning waterfronts, and great community. Tampa's diverse neighborhoods feature a mix of historic homes and modern developments, making it a top spot for real estate investment. The median price of listed homes for sale in Tampa, FL, is $400.4K.
There's plenty to explore, with various restaurants, shopping centers, museums, and parks around every corner in the city, so boredom is infrequent here. Plus, if you're hunting for Florida homes for sale, Tampa has no shortage of options. You'll find a variety of styles, sizes, and price ranges to choose from.
Miami
Nestled on the southern coast of the Sunshine State, Miami boasts miles of stunning beaches, world-class cuisine, and unparalleled vibrant culture. Whether you're a young professional looking to establish your career or a retiree seeking a peaceful, laid-back community, Miami has something to offer everyone.
Are you looking for your next home in South Florida? If you're looking for Miami homes for sale, you'll find many options offering access to city conveniences and water-based activities.
From cozy, three-bedroom bungalows to luxurious, waterfront estates, there's no shortage of opportunities to lead a relaxed life in Miami. In Miami-Dade County, FL, the median home price advertised for sale was $575K, a 9.5% increase compared to the previous year.
Schools in Florida
From rigorous academic standards to cutting-edge technology integration, schools in the Sunshine State constantly strive to provide their students with the best possible learning experiences.
If you're looking to move here and get your child enrolled, you'll be happy to know that there are plenty of great options no matter where you move in the state. Florida also has school choice, which means local families can enroll their kiddos in any school they like regardless of their income or zip code of residence.
Whether you're searching for a public school or a private institution, Florida homes for sale are located near fantastic educational opportunities for people of all levels. Florida is ranked by the U.S. News & World Report as the country's number one state for education.
The Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) governs public education in the state and manages the funding and the school boards. The state agency serves 2.8 million students across 67 districts (one per county), 4,400 schools, and 28 colleges. In addition, Florida has hundreds of private schools of all types and denominations.
Florida’s Best School Districts
Wondering where should you purchase homes for sale in Florida so your family can access top-notch education? Worry not. Here are the top 10 of the best school districts in the state for 2023, according to Niche.com.
#1 St. Johns County School District - St. Augustine
#2 Sarasota County Schools - Sarasota
#3 Okaloosa County School District - Fort Walton Beach
#4 Seminole County Public Schools - Sanford
#5 Clay County School District - Green Cove Springs
#6 Collier County Public School - Naples
#7 Leon County Schools - Tallahassee
#8 Alachua County Public Schools - Gainesville
#9 Martin County School District - Stuart
#10 Nassau County School District - Fernandina Beach
Top Colleges & Universities in Florida
When it comes to higher education, Florida offers plenty of options, both public and private. Keep reading for a top five of the best public colleges and universities in the state according to U.S. News & World Report:
- University of Florida - Gainesville
- Florida State University - Tallahassee
- University of Miami - Coral Gables
- University of South Florida - Tampa
- University of Central Florida - Orlando
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Homes For Sale
What Are The Zip Codes Of Homes For Sale In Florida?
Knowing the hottest zip codes in the state can be a game-changer for homebuyers looking to purchase homes for sale in Florida. Florida offers a diverse range of locations, but according to the latest estimates from the American Community Survey data released by The Census Bureau, the following list shows the top zip codes by population.
- 33012 and 33015 Hialeah
- 33023, 33024, and 33025 Miramar and Hollywood
- 33186 and 33157 Miami
- 33311 and 33313 Fort Lauderdale
- 33411 West Palm Beach
- 34953 Port Saint Lucie
- 33647 Tampa
- 32828 Orlando
- 32765 Oviedo
- 33064 Pompano Beach
What Are The Main Commercial Airports In Florida?
Frequent flyers pursuing homeownership in Florida can benefit from knowing the major commercial airports near the homes for sale in their potential state of residence. The major airports in Florida are:
- Orlando International Airport (MCO)
- Tampa International Airport (TPA)
- Miami International Airport (MIA)
- Southwest Florida International Airport
- Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)
- Fort Lauderdale – Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
- Jacksonville International Airport (JAX)
- Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport
Is it smart to buy property in Florida?
Purchasing a home for sale in Florida can be an excellent financial choice due to its year-round warm weather, attractive beaches, and active tourism industry. This guarantees a continuous flow of income if you decide to rent your property.
Moreover, investing in the Florida real estate market has been known to grow steadily over the years, indicating that your investment will likely increase in value over time. However, it's important to note that there are potential risks involved in any investment, such as the possibility of hurricanes and certain property management difficulties.
It's essential to conduct thorough research with the help of a skilled real estate agent to make a wise investment and reduce risks.
What's a comfortable salary in Florida?
On average, a salary of $50,000-$60,000 per year can get you plenty of options for buying Florida homes for sale if you live by yourself. However, if you're looking for a comfortable living without worrying about the extra frills, then a salary of $30,000-$40,000 could suffice.
Now, if you're planning a move to Florida with a family, the general rule is that you'll need to earn $120K or more, depending on location, expenses, and lifestyle.
Are all the homes for sale in Florida near a beach?
Florida's coastline spans more than 1,000 miles, so plenty of beachside options exist for those who love sun, sand, and sea. But this isn't just a state of beaches –plenty of houses for sale are located further inland. Areas like Orlando or Gainesville, despite being large cities, are situated in the middle of the state and can take up to two hours to reach the nearest beach.
Is it cheaper to live on the east or west coast of Florida?
While both coasts offer their own unique perks, affordability might tip the scales for some. Prices of Florida homes for sale vary depending on location and generally speaking, the west coast tends to be slightly cheaper than on the east coast. Of course, there are always outliers and exceptions.
For example, the west coast does have expensive areas like Naples and Sarasota, and the east coast has hot spots like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and Palm Beach that could break the bank. That being said, there are plenty of affordable options on both coasts as well.
Ultimately, it's up to you to weigh the pros and cons of each coast and decide what matters most to you. With diligent research and the help of a knowledgeable real estate agent, you can find a great deal and live comfortably in paradise.
Are Florida homes covered for hurricane damage?
Hurricane damage is usually covered by the windstorm or named storm deductible in Florida's standard homeowner's insurance policy. If a hurricane damages your home, you must first pay a deductible before your insurance coverage will be applied.
If your property experiences water damage due to flooding, you may need a different insurance policy and submit a separate claim.
Things To Do In Florida
- Everglades National Park: Spanning across 1.5 million acres, this national park is North America's only subtropical preserve. The park offers several outdoor activities, including hiking, geocaching, fishing, cycling, and bird watching.
- Walt Disney World: With its amazing rides, iconic characters, and magical atmosphere, Disney is a must-visit destination in Florida. It includes four parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios. In addition, it features two water parks, several resorts, and a large shopping area with excellent restaurants, shops, and activities.
- Salvador Dali Museum:The Dalí Museum has a vast collection of works by the Spanish surrealist artist, including 2,400 oil paintings, drawings, graphics, photographs, sculptures, and objects of art - some of which are masterpieces. It is considered the largest collection of its kind outside of Spain.
- Busch Gardens: Tampa's Busch Gardens is a popular destination for thrill-seekers all over Florida. It features top-of-the-line roller coasters, exciting rides, and opportunities to interact with cute animals, enjoy fun live performances for all ages, and even experience the acclaimed Serengeti Safari.
- Daytona 500: Looking for a thrilling adventure beyond the beautiful Florida homes for sale? This iconic NASCAR event draws in thousands of fans from around the country every year, all eager to witness high-speed racing at its finest.
- Kennedy Space Center: A mecca for every space buff, here you can learn about the history of space exploration through interactive exhibits, get up close with real rockets and spacesuits, and even experience what it's like to launch into space through a simulated ride.
- Castillo de San Marcos: A can’t-miss destination for history enthusiasts in the state, this is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. Stroll along the perimeter walls, admire the structure and its contents, and go inside the fort to soak in the panoramic views of St. Augustine and Matanzas Bay.
- Amelia Island: The picturesque Amelia Island is more than just a pretty beach. Nestled in Northeast Florida, this charming island is full of natural beauty, history, and fun. Known for its stunning sunsets, beaches, and golf courses, Amelia Island attracts visitors from all over the world.
- Dry Tortugas National Park: Located 70 miles west of Key West, the park covers 100 square miles and is on open waters. It is famous for its clear waters, mesmerizing coral reefs, and diverse marine life, making it a top snorkeling destination.
- Florida Caverns State Park: Located in the panhandle near Marianna, Florida, this park is home to a stunning underground world of limestone caves and crystal formations. Visitors can take guided tours of the caves, the only air-filled caves in the state open to the public.
Living In Florida
Florida Cost Of Living
Florida's cost of living index is 103.1, slightly higher than the national average (100) but low if we compare it with other popular states in the country. See examples of the cost of living indices in other states below:
- California: 149.9
- New York: 121.5
- Hawaii: 165.7
Almost all expenses in Florida cost between 1% to 2% over what they cost in the rest of the country, that includes groceries, healthcare, housing, and utilities. The most expensive cost in the city, according to bestplaces.net, is transportation, costing 12.6% more than in other states. Florida residents can expect to pay less for miscellaneous things such as clothing, repairs, eating out, and entertainment.
Weather In Florida
Due to proximity to the ocean, homes for sale in every corner of Florida fall under subtropical and tropical climates with high temperatures throughout the year and very little snowfall. The average daily temperature in the state is 71°F.
In the state, the temperature typically remains under 100°F (37.8°C) during summer. But Floridians have experienced some pretty cold temperatures. There have been very cold days with temperatures as low as 30s°F (-1 to 4°C) and record lows reaching the 10s (-12 to -7°C).
Florida frequently experiences severe weather. Hurricanes are a significant danger to the Florida peninsula every year between June 1 and November 30, with higher risk from August to October. Living in the Sunshine State means keeping an eye on weather reports and ensuring you have all the essentials ready to go.
Healthcare in Florida
Regarding healthcare in Florida, it's essential to know that a wide variety of options are available to residents. From some of the top hospitals in the country to local clinics and family practices, there are plenty of ways to access quality medical care in the Sunshine State.
U.S. News & World Report evaluated 247 hospitals in the state, and here are their top 10 of the best facilities near the homes for sale in Florida:
- Mayo Clinic Jacksonville
- Advent Health Orlando
- Tampa General Hospital
- UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville
- Cleveland Clinic Weston
- Sarasota Memorial Hospital
- Morton Plant Hospital Clearwater
- Baptist Health Hospital Miami
- Orlando Regional Medical Center
- University of Miami Hospital and Clinics
Job Market In Florida
The market in Florida is rapidly expanding and provides lucrative jobs in various industries, such as tourism and corporate sectors. This growth has resulted in a low unemployment rate of 2.6%, which is lower than in other regions of the United States.
Florida's job market is expanding beyond leisure and hospitality, with rapid growth in professional and business services. Additionally, there are other popular industries in the state:
- Manufacturing
- Construction
- Defense
- Aerospace
- Life sciences
- Aviation
Florida has many leading employers spread out across the state. According to Livability, some of the biggest players in Florida's job market include:
- Walt Disney World - 62,000 employees
- Miami-Dade County Public Schools – 54,300 employees
- Hillsborough County Public Schools – 25,400 employees
- Naval Air Station Jacksonville – 23,000 employees
- Publix Super Markets – 22,500 employees
- Orange County Public Schools – 19,760 employees
- Florida Hospital – 19,270 employees
Transportation In Florida
lorida is home to a number of convenient transportation options, which can make commuting to work or exploring the area a breeze. From the extensive highway system that connects major cities, to the numerous airports and train stations, Florida residents have plenty of choices when it comes to getting around.
The Florida Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining most of Florida's interstates, U.S. Highways, and state highways, except for a handful of highways in Miami that are maintained by the Miami-Dade Expressway Authority (MDX). Major roads in the state include
- U.S 1
- Florida A1A
- U.S 10
- U.S 17
- U.S 19
- U.S 301
- U.S Highway 27
- U.S 441
If you rather leave your car at home, Florida cities and towns provide residents of Florida homes for sale with access to several public transportation means, including railways (Amtrak, Tri-Rail, SumRail), metros and movers (Metrorail, Metromover), streetcars ( TECO Line Streetcar), trolleys, bus systems, and hub airports.