We love living in our little slice of paradise, but you have to admit that it’s a bit different from the rest of the country. Some of it’s good stuff, like gorgeous beaches and springs, and some of it’s a little harder to love, like giant bugs and reptiles. If you’re not a native Floridian, but you’re thinking of moving to the Sunshine State, there are a few things you should learn beforehand. We’ll save you some time with the list below. It includes 15 things you learn when moving to Florida. It won’t be long before you’re showing off that Florida pride!

1. Sunshine State is a bit of a misnomer.
Flickr/Corporate Monkey
Sure, we enjoy some beautiful days, but there's a lot of rain and stormy weather, too. During the rainy season it's rare to have a day without at least some light showers.
2. There really are alligators here.
Flickr/Dennis Church
And snakes, sharks, hurricanes, and sinkholes. We're also the lightning capital of the country. Be careful out there!
3. South Florida and North Florida are kind of like two different states.
Flickr/Jasperdo
People often say the further you go north in Florida, the more Southern it becomes because South Florida is a popular place for Northerner retirees and transplants, while North Florida tends to have more in common with Georgia and Alabama.
4. Holidays here are a little different.
Flickr/rjcox
It's kind of cool that we can have Thanksgiving dinner outside and wear shorts and flip-flops on Christmas if we choose to do so. Sure, our summers can be brutal, but you can't beat Florida winters.
5. There's nothing lovable about lovebugs.
Flickr/denipet
Lovebugs are the WORST! Especially when they mess up your paint job.
6. Humidity is the enemy of your hair and makeup.
Flickr/Helga Weber
If your hair seems crazier here, it's not your fault. It's the humidity. Either invest in an arsenal of anti-frizz products or just give up now.
7. There are a lot of bugs. Big bugs.
Flickr/Texx Smith
Our subtropical climate means lots of unique flora and fauna. Sometimes it's actually awesome, like when you spot a rare flower or animal.

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8. You can totally wear sandals anywhere at any time of year with no strange looks.
Flickr/Crystal Stallard
When it's cold, just cover them with fur. Or if it's really necessary, wear them with socks (although some of us swear this is a no-no).
9. All of your out-of-state friends and family will be asking to crash on your couch.
flickr/Michael Reinhart
After all, we live where they vacation, right? You can't really blame them for trying to save money on expensive hotels. Maybe you could even go on Airbnb to make some extra money?
10. Publix is so much more than just a grocery store.
flickr/Phillip Pessar
How has this chain not taken over the country yet? We love the subs, BOGOs, and layout of the stores, but the top-notch customer service is what really makes Publix truly shine.
11. Hurricanes have an entire season, and it's basically half the year.
Flickr/Beth Scupham
We don't have to worry about earthquakes or getting snowed in, but hurricanes are a very real threat. We try not to get worried prematurely, but even natives are worried sometimes.
12. There's beauty beyond the beaches.
Flickr/Ariel Ophelia
Our springs are crystal clear and surrounded by some of Florida's prettiest scenery. Trust us. Florida's springs are the best place to cool off in the summer.
13. These things can fly.
Flickr/marsupialrobot
It seems too awful to be true, but, unfortunately, it is. Even if you spray around your home, they can still find you on the sidewalks and other public places.
14. The natural waterparks are the best kind.
Flickr/lagology
Florida has so many gorgeous state, city, county, and national parks to explore. Which one is your favorite?
15. The oldest city in the country is right here in Florida.
Flickr/Matthew Paulson
We're pretty proud of having such a beautiful and historic city right here. St. Augustine is a must-see destination for anyone who wants to be a Floridian.

What do you think of this list? What tips would you give someone moving to Florida? Let us know in the comments below.

 

 

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things you learn when moving to florida

Jennifer Young | February 12, 2022

What are 10 of the best reasons for living in Florida?

1. Most of the year is sunny and warm.
2. You'll save lots of money because there's no state income tax.
3. Florida has a diverse culture. It's home to all ages, religions, and backgrounds.
4. Residents of Florida receive discounts to local attractions, including Walt Disney World in Orlando.
5. Florida offers a variety of outdoor activities for all ages.
6. Florida's cost of living is below the national average.
7. Some of the nation's best sports teams, both professional and college, are in Florida.
8. You'll have access to a variety of food in Florida, including the most delicious seafood around.
9. You don't have to travel for vacation because Florida is one of the top travel destinations in the U.S.
10. The beaches! Some of the world's best beaches are in Florida, which is why many people choose to move here in the first place.

What are five reasons why life in Florida can't be beat?

1. Florida is the warmest state in the U.S., so you don't have to worry about brutal, freezing winters. Flip flops year-round? Yes, please!
2. You're on vacation all the time. That's right! Because Florida is a popular travel destination, you'll feel like you're always on vacation.
3. Florida offers a lot of outdoor recreational activities you won't find in most other places. Most of these are of course in the ocean such as surfing, sailing, snorkeling, and even swimming with dolphins.
4. You'll likely always have a job. Florida is one of the best states when it comes to looking for a job. In fact, the Sunshine State's unemployment rate dropped to 4.6% in October 2021.
5. You'll have daily access to some of the world's best and most beautiful white-sand beaches.

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