The Sunshine State, Florida, has long been a favorite tourist, retiree, and snowbird destination. However, not everyone enjoys living in Florida.
In fact, according to SelfStorage’s analysis of Google search data, the state has experienced an increase in persons wishing to migrate to other regions of the country. The causes for this migration are numerous, but the following are some of the most important:
Rising cost of living: In recent years, Florida has seen a significant increase in housing prices, rentals, and taxes, making it less affordable for individuals on a fixed income or a limited budget.
In barely half a decade, the median price of a single-family home in Florida increased by $150,000, or 60%. Rent in big cities such as Orlando, Tampa, and Miami is also more than the national average.
Extreme weather: Hurricanes, floods, and heat waves are common in Florida, causing substantial damage to property and infrastructure as well as posing health and safety issues.
storm Ian, which devastated the state in 2022, was the most expensive storm in Florida history and the third most expensive in US history, inflicting over $112 billion in damage and killing over 150 people. Many residents have been forced to migrate as a result of the storm’s destruction or the dread of future calamities.
Political turmoil: Florida has been at the focus of numerous contentious legislation and policies passed by Gov. Ron DeSantis, which have provoked criticism and anger from a variety of groups and individuals.
Some of these regulations restrict gender-affirming care, require people to use toilets that correspond to their sex at birth, prohibit vaccination passports, and limit voting rights. Because of these rules, some citizens have felt unwelcome, uncomfortable, or unhappy in the state.
So, which municipalities are losing the most residents? Based on Google search statistics and other sources, here are seven of them:
1. Palm Beach Shores
Imagine blue water lapping against white sands, and high-end homes shining in the sun. This beautiful seaside paradise is right where the rising sea levels start.
A study from the University of Florida says that shoreline erosion and floods could cause Palm Beach Shores to lose up to 86% of its land area by 2100. About 1,200 people live in the town, which is already frequently hit by storm waves, saltwater inflow, and beach erosion. A lot of people are selling their homes and moving to areas with better ground.
2. Belle Glade
The small town of Belle Glade is in the middle of the Everglades. It is known for growing sugar cane and having a high rate of poverty. About 18,000 people live in the town, which has a lot of social and natural problems, like unemployment, crime, disease, and dirty water.
Many people in Belle Glade get their drinking water from Lake Okeechobee, which is the biggest freshwater lake in Florida and a threat to the town. The lake is tainted by water from farms, and its old dike is prone to algae blooms and breaks. A lot of people are moving to Belle Glade to find better jobs and places to live.
3. Apalachicola
Apalachicola is a unique Gulf Coast town known for its oysters and fishing business. About 2,300 people live in the town, and the Apalachicola Bay and River are very important to its business and culture.
But the bay and river are in danger because of too much fishing, weather, and a water disagreement with Georgia and Alabama that has been going on for decades.
The number of oysters has dropped by a huge amount, which has hurt the jobs and health of many fishers and their families. A lot of people are leaving Apalachicola in search of jobs that are more stable and pay better.
4. Everglades City
In the small town of Everglades City, which is on the edge of the Everglades National Park, you can go swimming and see wildlife. About 400 people live in the town, which is surrounded by nature and wildlife, making for a unique and beautiful way of life.
But Everglades City is also far away and open to the effects of climate change, like rising sea levels, storm waves, and saltwater getting in. Several hurricanes have been very bad for the town.
Hurricane Ian flooded most of the town and destroyed many houses and other infrastructure. A lot of people are leaving Everglades City to live in places that are safer and easier to get to.
5. Fernandina Beach
This town is on the coast of Amelia Island, close to Jacksonville. About 12,000 people live in the town, which has a rich past and a charming downtown area with lots of shops, bars, and things to do. Besides its beaches, Fernandina Beach is also known for its golf courses, concerts, and other events.
But Fernandina Beach is also under a lot of stress from things like rising property prices, development, and too many people. Fernandina Beach is also at risk of floods and damage because it is on a barrier island that is always shifting and changing shape. A lot of people are leaving Fernandina Beach to live in places that are safer and cheaper.
Human Cost and Repercussions
Moving away from Florida is not just a personal choice; it’s also a social and business trend. It changes the environment, economy, society, and population of the state.
For example, if a lot of people leave, the city might lose tax money, public services, skilled workers, and individuals from different backgrounds. It could also change the political balance of the state, since Florida is a “swing state” that often chooses who wins the presidential race.
Also, the people leaving Florida could have an impact on other states and areas as they try to handle the large number of arrivals. This could bring both possibilities and problems to the host towns. For example, there could be more demand for housing, infrastructure, and services, and people could fight over resources, values, and identities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Florida has a lot to offer, but more and more people are leaving because of things like the rising cost of living, extreme weather, and political unrest. People are moving out of places like Palm Beach Shores, Belle Glade, Apalachicola, Everglades City, and Fernandina Beach in large numbers.
The migration has effects on society, the economy, and politics. It changes the way the state works and might affect other areas that are dealing with large groups of newcomers.