Why Illinois Residents are Swapping Snow for Sunshine
Planning to relocate to Florida from Illinois? You’re not alone—thousands of families make the move annually. Here’s a quick guide:
Key Steps to Relocate to Florida:
- Research your destination – Compare costs and neighborhoods in Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and other cities.
- Budget your move – Plan for moving costs ($5,000-$15,000+ for a Chicago to Florida move), deposits, and setup fees.
- Establish residency – Get your driver’s license within 30 days and register your vehicle within 10 days.
- Set up essentials – Arrange utilities, find healthcare, and enroll children in school.
- Understand the benefits – Enjoy no state income tax, lower property taxes, and warm weather year-round.
Why People Relocate to Florida from Illinois:
- Tax savings – No state income tax means keeping more of your income.
- Lower cost of living – Average home price is around $382,136, with average rent at $2,400.
- Better weather – Trade snow for over 300 days of sunshine.
- Job opportunities – Find growing markets in healthcare, tourism, and technology.
- Beach lifestyle – Access 1,300 miles of coastline and 175 state parks.
Florida’s population is booming, with most residents having relocated from other states. The 1,200-mile move from Chicago or Melrose Park to Florida is more than a change of address—it’s a lifestyle upgrade.
I’m Mina Georgalas, owner of Bernard Movers. For nearly 30 years, I’ve helped Illinois families relocate to Florida. With over 50 years of company experience, I know that proper planning is the key to a successful start in the Sunshine State.
Important relocate to Florida terms:
The Ultimate Guide to Relocate to Florida from Illinois
For many Illinois residents, trading blustery winters for sun-drenched beaches is a tangible goal. We’re here to guide you through every step of your journey to relocate to Florida.
Cost of Living & Tax Benefits: Florida vs. Illinois
One of the most compelling reasons to relocate to Florida is the potential for significant financial benefits. Let’s compare costs for families from Chicago, Melrose Park, and across Illinois.
Cost Comparison: Housing Market
Florida’s housing market is often more attractive than in many parts of Illinois. The average home cost is around $382,136, while the average rent is $2,400. While prices vary by city, this often provides a more accessible entry point than some Illinois markets.
Median home prices in popular Florida cities include:
- Miami: over $540,000
- Orlando: over $385,000
- Tampa: over $400,000
- St. Petersburg: over $420,000
- Jacksonville: over $340,000
- Naples: over $800,000
You can explore property values on Zillow home values. Our clients from Illinois often find Florida’s market offers more options across different price points.
Tax Benefits: A Major Advantage
Florida has no state income tax. This means more money in your pocket each month compared to Illinois. Property taxes are also generally lower, with a state average of around 0.82% of a home’s value. Florida also offers generous homestead exemptions for primary residences, further reducing the tax burden.
Daily Living Expenses: Utilities and Groceries
When budgeting your move, consider these typical monthly utility costs in Florida:
- Electricity: $120–$200 (higher in summer)
- Water and sewer: $40–$70
- Internet and cable: $50–$100
- Natural gas: $20–$50 (less common)
Grocery costs are generally manageable, with a typical budget of $250–$400 per person per month.
Job Market, Top Cities, and Sunshine State Lifestyle
Beyond finances, Florida offers a vibrant economy and an undeniable quality of life.
Major Industries and Job Opportunities
Florida’s economy is booming, with hundreds of thousands of job openings and a low unemployment rate. Our Illinois clients often find robust opportunities in:
- Tourism & Hospitality: The state’s largest industry, with roles in resorts, restaurants, and attractions. Miami alone attracts millions of visitors annually.
- Healthcare & Medical Services: A fast-growing sector with a high demand for nursing professionals.
- Technology & Innovation: Florida is rapidly becoming a major tech hub.
- Real Estate & Development: This sector contributes hundreds of billions to Florida’s economy annually.
- Manufacturing & Education: These sectors also offer significant employment.
Popular Cities and Their Characteristics
Choosing where to relocate to Florida is a big decision. Here’s a look at popular cities:
- Miami: Known for urban sophistication, international business, and vibrant nightlife.
- Orlando: Family-friendly with a strong job market in tech, hospitality, and aerospace.
- Tampa: Offers affordable urban living and a rapidly growing economy.
- Jacksonville: Big-city amenities with a more relaxed, suburban feel and known for affordability.
- Naples: An upscale choice for retirees and professionals, offering a resort-style living.
Climate Differences and Outdoor Recreation
Say goodbye to shoveling snow! Florida offers a warm, tropical climate year-round. Winters are mild, while summers are hot and humid. Be aware of hurricane season, which runs from June through November. Preparedness is key.
Florida is an outdoor lover’s paradise, with over 1,300 miles of coastline, 175 state parks, and thousands of lakes. Enjoy endless opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing.
Food Culture
Florida’s food scene is a delightful blend of Caribbean, Latin American, and Southern flavors. From fresh seafood to Key Lime Pie, your taste buds are in for a treat.
Your Official Florida Relocation Checklist
Moving from Illinois to Florida requires careful planning. Here’s an essential checklist for a smooth transition.
Establishing Residency
To establish Florida residency, you must show intent to make it your permanent home. This can include:
- Filing a declaration of domicile.
- Registering children for school.
- Securing employment.
- Registering to vote.
- Getting a Florida driver’s license and vehicle registration.
- Filing for a homestead exemption.
Driver’s License & Vehicle Registration
- Driver’s License: You must get a Florida driver’s license within 30 days of establishing residency. Visit a Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) office with the required documents. Learn more at Get your Florida Driver’s License.
- Vehicle Registration: You must register your vehicle(s) within 10 days of establishing residency. This requires proof of Florida insurance. Get details at Register your vehicle.
Voter Registration
Your Illinois voter registration won’t transfer. Re-register online at Register to vote in Florida.
Finding Housing & Setting Up Utilities
Start your housing search early. Resources like Realtor.com can help. Contact utility providers two to three weeks before your move-in date to set up electricity, water, and internet.
Education, Healthcare, and Community Life
For families, understanding Florida’s schools, healthcare, and community life is vital.
Educational Opportunities
Florida offers a robust public school system. You can Find your school district and research Best school districts in Florida online. The state also has over 40 public universities and 28 community colleges, with affordable tuition for residents.
Healthcare System and Insurance Considerations
Secure new healthcare providers soon after arriving. You can search for doctors on sites like Locate healthcare providers. If your employer doesn’t provide health insurance, explore options on the Health Insurance Marketplace.
Community Integration and Building Social Circles
Florida communities are generally welcoming. Join local groups on social media, volunteer, or connect with others through outdoor activities to build your social circle.
Budgeting Your Cross-Country Move
Budgeting your move from Illinois to Florida is crucial for a stress-free relocation.
Moving Costs: From Illinois to Florida
The cost to relocate to Florida from Illinois varies, but moves from Chicago or Melrose Park often fall in the $5,000-$15,000+ range, depending on the size of your home. For more details, see our long distance movers cost guide.
Managing Expenses and Saving on Your Move
Here are our top tips for managing costs:
- Declutter: Donate, sell, or discard items you no longer need. Less to move means lower costs.
- Move During the Off-Season: Moving between September and April can be cheaper.
- Choose a Weekday: Weekday moves can sometimes offer better rates.
- Compare Estimates: Always get written estimates from several reputable moving companies.
Special Considerations When You Relocate to Florida
Moving from Illinois to Florida has unique considerations.
Moving with Pets
Plan ahead for your pets. Check Florida’s specific pet import regulations for any health certificate requirements or restrictions.
Transferring Professional Licenses
This process varies by profession. Contact the relevant Florida licensing board early to understand their requirements and reciprocity agreements.
Unique Challenges for Illinois Families
Adjusting to Florida’s climate can be a challenge. The summer heat and humidity, along with hurricane season (June-November), require preparation. Also, unlike Chicago’s public transit, most Florida cities are car-dependent, so factor that into your planning.
Your Smooth Move to Florida Starts Here
The decision to relocate to Florida from Illinois is an exciting one. From tax savings and a lower cost of living to a booming job market and an enviable outdoor lifestyle, the benefits are clear. With careful planning, your transition to the Sunshine State can be seamless.
For families in Chicago, Melrose Park, and across Illinois, trading winter for sunshine is within reach. We at Bernard Movers are dedicated to making your long-distance move as smooth as possible. With over 50 years of experience, we are your trusted partner for this new chapter.
As a special incentive for our Illinois clients, we’re offering a 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida. Contact us to see if your move qualifies!
Get an estimate for your affordable long-distance move today, and explore our specialized Illinois to Florida moving services. We look forward to helping you make Florida your new home!
