They’re still coming in droves — but they’re leaving in droves as well.
Florida’s net migration total plunged in 2023 thanks to a record number of departures, according to a report from the Florida Chamber of Commerce — and the trend is expected to continue.
Drawn to the Sunshine State’s abundance of rays and absence of income tax, more than 637,000 emigres poured into Florida in 2023 — the highest inbound migration of any state in the nation.
But there was also a notable stampede in the opposite direction, with an unprecedented 511,000 Floridians bidding farewell.
Only California saw a higher number of departures in 2023, the organization noted.
That equates to a net in-migration of 126,000 to Florida — down sharply from an increase of 249,064 the prior year.
“While this growth is the second highest in the country, it is a downward shift from previous years,” The Chamber noted in its report. “Besides smaller dips in 2017 and 2018, this is the first drop in net migration in the last 10 years.”
The study noted that increased housing costs are driving the surge in exits — and that younger residents are heading out of state at an accelerating clip due to job and cost of living concerns.
Inbound migration is still buoyed by retirees, who have long looked to Florida as a preferred venue for their golden years.
Spiking property insurance premiums are also spurring some Sunshine Staters to pack their bags.
Those leaving Florida generally head to other southern states, including Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee.
One Response
I would like to leave Florida. I may some day but I currently have built up a very good team of Doctors! I would not mind somewhere not as crazy if I can fly in and back for Doctor’s visits! When I moved here I was very happy…but many things have changed and there are better places to live!