Kimberly Jones spent her whole life in Miami, where she built a career in logistics and raised her family. But in 2025, she did something unexpected—she moved to a quiet town about an hour outside of Charlotte, North Carolina. “It wasn’t easy,” Kimberly, now 60, shared. “We wanted a slower pace of life. South Florida isn’t what it used to be.”
She feels overwhelmed by the rapid growth in South Florida. Rising traffic and constant construction made her escape necessary. “If there’s a corner open, they build a high-rise,” she noted. “I used to spend two and a half hours commuting daily.”
Despite some continuing to flock to Florida, many are choosing other paths. Recent data shows that net migration to the state has decreased over the years. As the population rises, affordability is slipping away.
In the past, Florida was appealing for its lower housing costs and favorable tax conditions. Now, soaring home prices are causing many residents to rethink their choices. According to Redfin, the median home price jumped from $298,100 in December 2020 to $412,100 by December 2025. Additionally, rising home insurance rates have left people struggling with hefty expenses.
Debra Pamplin, who moved back to the Midwest after living in Jacksonville for 11 years, shares a similar story. She grew tired of the overwhelming insurance costs and the oppressive heat. “I often had to cut back on other expenses to manage my insurance,” she explained. Now, she enjoys a more balanced financial life away from Florida.
Experts are weighing in on this trend. Jed Kolko, a senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, explained that rising costs are pushing people towards more affordable places. “Florida was seen as cheap, but now it’s not as affordable compared to other states,” he said.
While some of Florida’s charm remains, its growth is changing. Mariya Letdin, a real estate professor at Florida State University, recognizes that Florida is still a popular destination, even if the rate of newcomers is slowing. Michael Martirena, a South Florida real estate agent, has noticed that his customers now include more international buyers. He attributes this shift to the appeal of Florida’s tax benefits and a changing economic landscape.
Moreover, Census data indicates rising numbers of non-citizens leaving Florida, which might also impact domestic migration. Even as some move out, the state still attracts international buyers looking for opportunities.
The ongoing changes in Florida reflect broader trends in migration and economic shifts across the U.S. The Sunshine State may still shine brightly, but it’s doing so in a very different context than just a few years ago.
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