It seems like everyone has had enough of frigid winters and now, they’re migrating southward. More specifically, people are moving to Florida in droves. The Sunshine State is surely one of the most welcoming in the entire country. This warm-weather peninsula is a tropical oasis that is prime for vacationing. But if you want to call it your new home, these are the 10 best places to reside.
1. Sarasota
On Florida’s southwestern coast, Sarasota lures vacationers in as full-time residents. It’s hard to resist the appeal of this seaside city. It has a nice mix of retirees and younger residents so you’ll find a majestic opera house plus plenty of rooftop bars. This is the place you want to be for all the upscale surroundings with resorts and fine dining in the downtown area. In Siesta Key Village, there’s more of a quiet waterfront feel. So, if you like dining, lazing by the beach, and enjoying the great outdoors, this is the Florida city for you.
2. Naples
Naples has a bit of a reputation for having lots of old folks, but this prime slice of paradise is right between the Everglades and the Gulf of Mexico. You’ll find the community here to be wealthier with folks congregating to soak up the blissful weather on those sugary-sanded beaches. Despite the older crowd, there’s been a boom in craft breweries, clubs, and waterside venues that will certainly help you enjoy your days.
3. Jacksonville
Jacksonville is just south of the Georgia border on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a sprawling metropolis that is often overlooked in favor of the other big cities in Florida. However, Jacksonville has quite a diverse population which makes it a playground by the sea that everyone can enjoy. With Amelia Island and Ponte Vedra, you get some of the best golf courses. But even if you’re not a fan of tee time, you’ll find much more to do outdoors with hiking, camping, cycling, boating, fishing, and all kinds of watersports. The vibrant downtown is a great place to go on weekends whether you’d prefer a more mellow venue or something rowdier.
4. Melbourne
Come live in one of the Space Coast’s most popular areas. Melbourne is the perfect place to call home if you have your head in the clouds, for you’ll be able to see launches from Cape Canaveral. This easy-going city has all the benefits of a major metropolitan area while still retaining that small-town charm. The beaches, conveniences, and outdoor recreation make Melbourne a splendid spot for anyone from families to couples young and old.
5. Tampa
Tampa has undergone explosive growth over the last two decades, and it’s easy to see why. It offers residents of all ages and lifestyles a laid-back beachy vibe along with metropolitan amenities. There are countless museums, loads of entertainment, dining, nightlife, professional sports, theme parks, and so much more. Plus, it’s just a quick drive on I-4 to head to Orlando when you want to visit Disney and Universal.
6. Pensacola
For a more historic and natural place to live in Florida, choose Pensacola. It has long been called the “City of Five Flags” for all the governments that have claimed the land and as such, is incredibly diverse. They hold a 10-day celebration each year, something you won’t want to miss. Additionally, it’s heaven for those that love boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation. The beaches have that powdery white sand that feels like pure bliss when you stroll along the shore of the Gulf of Mexico should you prefer to stay on land.
7. Port St. Lucie
Over on the Treasure Coast, which is on the southeast side of the state just north of Palm Beach, the relaxed ambiance that Port St. Lucie is ideal for anyone who likes to take it easy. This quiet place features scenic waterways and manicured golf courses, yet tends to be more affordable than other cities in Florida. Boating and fishing are extremely popular pastimes here though then again, so is watching the New York Mets train at the spring training grounds. Gentle manatees can be spotted in the waters and many of the residents here take to golf carts to run quick errands at the supermarket (which features golf cart parking) rather than using their cars.
8. Fort Myers
Fort Myers is north of Naples but south of Sarasota on the Gulf Coast. Known as the “City of Palms,” it is a place lush with flora with spectacular waterways and white sand beaches. Even Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, and Harvey Firestone found it too irresistible to pass up. With so much to do outdoors including hiking, paddling, golfing, tennis, swimming, snorkeling, boating, and fishing, you’ll always find something to keep you busy in this relaxed vacation-style town.
9. Orlando
One of the biggest misconceptions people have about Orlando when they come from out of state is that it’s just theme parks. While Disney and Universal are big draws here, there is so much more to Orlando than that. This pulsating metropolis features epic restaurants, nightclubs, and loads of live events. Its prime location makes it easy to visit other cities in the state, and the natural areas are spectacular for seeing Florida’s true beauty.
10. Ocala
If you’d prefer somewhere more off the beaten path in Florida, Ocala is for you. It’s called the “Horse Capital of the World.” You don’t have to love horses, but if you do, you’ll love it even more. In Ocala, you can also take up golfing, tennis, and other activities
, though the natural surroundings of this inland city are one of its best features. It’s a small and welcoming place, plus, if you’re worried about hurricanes blowing you back up north, you’ll be less likely to experience a major impact from them here.
While these are the 10 best places to live in Florida, there are many other little cities and towns that may fit your style and give you a chance to call the Sunshine State your new home!