Florida is an attractive state for many reasons, including its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. However, one of the most compelling reasons to consider moving to Florida is the affordability of residential property. In this article, we will explore why Florida is an affordable state to buy residential property.
First, let’s consider the housing market in Florida. According to Zillow, the median home value in Florida is $295,000 as of September 2021. While this may seem high, it’s important to remember that Florida is a large state with a wide range of housing options. For example, the median home value in Miami is $395,000, while the median home value in Jacksonville is $214,000. Additionally, Florida has a wide range of home styles, from beachfront condos to sprawling suburban homes, meaning that there is something for everyone.
Another reason why Florida is an affordable state to buy residential property is the lack of state income tax. Florida is one of only seven states in the United States that does not collect state income tax. This means that residents can keep more of their earnings, which can be used to pay for a mortgage or invest in other areas.
Additionally, Florida has relatively low property taxes compared to other states. According to WalletHub, Florida has the 9th lowest property tax rate in the United States, with an average effective property tax rate of 0.83%. This can make a big difference in the total cost of owning a home over time.
Another factor to consider is the cost of living in Florida. According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Florida is 3.3% lower than the national average. This means that not only is housing affordable, but everyday expenses like groceries, transportation, and healthcare are also relatively inexpensive.
Finally, it’s worth noting that Florida has a growing economy and a thriving job market. According to the Florida Chamber of Commerce, Florida is the 4th largest economy in the United States, with a GDP of $1.1 trillion. The state is home to a diverse range of industries, including tourism, healthcare, and technology, which means that there are plenty of job opportunities for residents.
Here are some cities to consider if you are looking to make a real estate investment in the Sunshine State.
Cape Coral, Florida
Cape Coral, located on the Gulf Coast next to Ft. Myers, is a great place to invest in real estate for several reasons. Firstly, its location is incredibly convenient. You can easily access other major cities in Florida, such as Tampa and Miami, by driving or taking a short flight.
Another major advantage of Cape Coral is its affordability. The median household income is around $50,000, and the median home price is $230,000. For those who enjoy fishing and living on the water, Cape Coral’s extensive canal system offers a more affordable alternative to beachfront property. You can find homes with canal access, which provides a dock for your boat and a water view, without having to pay the premium of oceanfront real estate.
Jacksonville, Florida
Jacksonville, the most populous city in Northeast Florida, is an excellent place to invest in real estate for several reasons. Firstly, the typical home value in Jacksonville is 21% below the average for cities in the state, making it a more affordable option for those looking to invest in property. The median home value is $249,048, which is below the state’s average.
Jacksonville’s rental market is also attractive for landlords. With a below-average rental vacancy rate of 7.5%, there is a good demand for rental properties in the area. The high levels of affordability make many people want to rent, which means there would be a lot of demand for a potential rental property.
Miami, Florida
Miami is a highly desirable location for real estate investors for several reasons. Firstly, its location on the southeastern coast of Florida provides access to beautiful beaches, warm weather, and a vibrant cultural scene, making it a highly sought-after destination for both tourists and residents.
In addition, Miami’s real estate market has shown consistent growth over the years. While there may be some fluctuations, overall, the real estate market in Miami has remained strong, with property values generally appreciating over time. This provides an opportunity for real estate investors to earn a healthy return on investment.
Another factor that makes Miami an attractive location for real estate investment is the city’s diverse population and strong economy. Miami is home to a wide range of industries, including finance, healthcare, technology, and international trade, which provides a stable economic base for the city. The presence of a strong and diverse economy ensures that there will always be demand for housing and commercial real estate in the area, which can translate into steady rental income or potential capital gains for investors.
In conclusion
Florida is an affordable state to buy residential property for several reasons. The housing market is diverse, with a wide range of styles and prices. The lack of state income tax and relatively low property taxes can save residents money over time. The cost of living in Florida is also lower than the national average, and the state’s growing economy provides job opportunities for residents. For these reasons and more, Florida is an attractive destination for anyone looking to purchase a home.
