Florida 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities - Page 19

Florida Climate & Geography

While Florida has a humid subtropical climate, the heat is tempered somewhat because no part of the state is far from the ocean. During the summer months, the average temperature is in the low 90s, and winter temperatures are around the mid-50s.

Central Florida experiences more lightning than anywhere else in the U.S., making it the lightning capital of the country. Afternoon thunderstorms are common throughout the state. Subsequently, Florida has a high annual average of rainfall.

Florida borders Georgia and Alabama to the north. Water surrounds the rest of the state. Florida is one of the country's only peninsula states.

To the west is the Gulf of Mexico, and to the east is the Atlantic Ocean. The famous marshes and swamps of the Everglades are in the southern region of Florida.

Recreation, Culture & Entertainment in Florida

Florida became the 27th of the 50 United States in 1845. During the 1920s, economic prosperity stimulated land development. Land development came to a halt by two hurricanes in the late 1920s, followed closely by the Great Depression.

Today, Florida is a favorite among active adults looking for a warmer climate and cheaper cost of living. The Sunshine State now ranks third in population with approximately 23 million residents.

Active adults who call this state home enjoy endless opportunities for entertainment and recreation. There are 161 state parks offering hiking, bird watching, camping, and horseback riding. Many of these parks also offer educational services geared towards informing people about this state's unique wildlife.

Some of the larger cities offer great attractions, such as:

• Walt Disney World
• Universal Orlando
• The Kennedy Space Center
• Discovery Cove
• Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

Florida is home to many popular beaches, including:

• Siesta Key
• Delray Beach
• Clearwater Beach
• Palm Beach

Sports fans will love the numerous professional sports teams in the state, including:

• Miami Marlins
• Jacksonville Jaguars
• Orlando Magic
• Tampa Bay Lighting
• Inter Miami CF
• Orlando City SC

Whatever your interests or hobbies are, this beautiful state has something for your active lifestyle.

Florida Cost of Living & Taxes

Retiring in Florida is relatively average in terms of cost of living. The state's cost of living in Florida is 2% lower than the national average.

When considering tropical areas to retire in the U.S., Florida is a more affordable option when compared to California. Within the state, the cost of living varies by area. For example, retiring in Ocala is slightly cheaper than retiring in Miami.

Here's a quick look at taxes in Florida:

• 6% general sales tax
• No individual state income tax
• 0.71% property tax
• Health Care in Florida

Adults needing regular medical attention will be glad to know that Florida has 252 active physicians per 100,000 people. That is one of the highest physician counts in the entire country. There are 303 hospitals in the state offering state-of-the-art care, treating everything from the common cold to cancer. Residents in Florida active adult communities live well knowing there are numerous medical options in their area.

Retiring in Florida FAQs

Where are the best places to retire in Florida?

The Sunshine State is one of the best and most desired states to retire in. Some of the popular areas to consider when looking for a 55+ community in Florida include:

• Tampa Bay
• Sarasota
• Venice-Port Charlotte
• Port St. Lucie
• Naples
• Lakeland
• Ocala
• Ft. Myers

How much does it cost to live in a 55+ community in Florida?

As of 2023, the average cost of residing in an age-restricted community is between $1,500 to $4,000 per month. This is due to HOA fees, onsite amenities, security services, and other expenses.