Tracking the Great Florida Migration
Data, trends, and insights on where people are moving from, where they are settling, and what it means for your relocation.
Updated July 19, 2026
The Big Picture
Florida is adding over 300,000 new residents every year. Here is what you need to know.
300,000+
New Florida residents annually
#1
New York — top source state
#2
New Jersey — second largest feeder
#3
Pennsylvania — third largest feeder
Jacksonville
Fastest growing metro area
$395K
Statewide median home price (2026)
$4,200/yr
Average home insurance cost
Miami
Most expensive major market
State-by-State Migration Patterns
Where relocators from each state tend to settle in Florida
| Source State | Primary Florida Destinations |
|---|---|
| New York | Broward, Palm Beach, Miami-Dade (South FL) + Jacksonville |
| New Jersey | Palm Beach, Broward (South FL) + Jacksonville |
| Pennsylvania | Jacksonville, Tampa, Fort Myers |
| Ohio | Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando |
| Connecticut | Palm Beach, Martin Counties |
| Michigan | Tampa, Fort Myers, Jacksonville |
| Illinois | Tampa, Jacksonville, Southwest Florida |
| Massachusetts | South Florida, Naples |
| California | Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando |
| Georgia | Jacksonville, Daytona, Central Florida |
Data based on 2024-2025 moving trends from U-Haul, PODS, and IRS migration reports, projected forward for 2026.
Regional Growth Trends
Each region of Florida is attracting a different type of mover
North Florida
North Florida is the fastest-growing region in the state, attracting budget-conscious relocators and retirees priced out of coastal markets. Jacksonville leads the surge with strong job growth in logistics, healthcare, and finance. The region offers the most affordable housing in the state, lower insurance premiums than coastal South FL, and a growing inventory of new construction.
Central Florida
Central Florida continues to see steady growth driven by healthcare and tech jobs in Orlando, Tampa, and surrounding counties. The region appeals to families and professionals looking for a balance of affordability, amenities, and job opportunities. New construction is keeping pace with demand, and home prices remain stable relative to South Florida.
South Florida
South Florida remains the most popular destination for out-of-state movers, particularly from the Northeast. But affordability pressures are starting to slow growth. Home prices in Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties continue to climb, and insurance costs are pushing some buyers further north. Still, the lifestyle, job market, and international appeal keep South Florida the top choice for many.
Housing Market Trends by Region
Real estate conditions vary widely across Florida. Here is how the three major regions compare.
North Florida
New construction booms in Jacksonville and surrounding suburbs. First-time buyers and cash-heavy relocators finding good value.
Central Florida
Orlando and Tampa maintain balanced markets. Tech and healthcare job growth supporting demand without drastic price jumps.
South Florida
Limited new supply in desirable coastal areas. Luxury condos and waterfront properties continue to appreciate rapidly.
What the Data Means for Buyers
Key takeaways from the migration trends that affect your move
North Florida is Where the Value Is
For buyers priced out of South Florida, North Florida offers the same no-income-tax advantage with significantly lower home prices and insurance costs. Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Gainesville are attracting the largest share of budget-conscious relocators.
Insurance Costs Are Reshaping the Map
Rising property insurance premiums in coastal South Florida are pushing buyers inland and northward. Many relocating families are choosing neighborhoods 10-20 miles from the coast to save $1,500-$3,000 per year on insurance alone.
Remote Work Unlocks More Options
With flexible and remote work becoming the norm, relocators are no longer tied to commuting distance from a single office. This has opened up interior Florida towns and less-expensive metros that were previously overlooked.
The Next 5 Years: More North FL Growth
All indicators point toward continued acceleration in North Florida growth. As South Florida affordability tightens and insurance costs climb, the I-4 corridor and I-95 corridor north of Daytona will see the most new arrivals.
How Do These Trends Affect Your Move?
These trends paint the big picture, but your move is personal. Book a free consultation and we will walk through exactly how the data applies to your situation, your budget, and your family.
This dashboard is updated monthly. Bookmark this page and check back for the latest data.