Florida’s 2025 Migration Wave: Where Buyers Are Moving—and Why It Matters

Florida’s 2025 Migration Wave: Where Buyers Are Moving—and Why It Matters

Florida has long been a magnet for sunseekers, retirees, and international investors—but in 2025, a new wave of migration is transforming the Sunshine State’s housing market. Driven by affordability, lifestyle, and tax advantages, buyers from across the U.S. (and abroad) are changing not only Miami, but also emerging hotspots like Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville.

At RedRoc Realty, we’ve been tracking these shifts closely. Here’s what you need to know about where the demand is coming from—and what it means for buyers, sellers, and agents in Florida this year.

1. Where Are Buyers Coming From in 2025?

According to Zillow’s and Redfin’s latest migration reports, Florida is the #1 relocation destination in the U.S. in mid-2025.

Top feeder states include:

• New York – High cost of living continues to push residents south.
• California – Remote workers and retirees looking for lower taxes and better value.
• Illinois – Chicago residents citing affordability and weather as top motivators.
• Texas – Interestingly, some outflow from Austin and Dallas due to rising prices.

 

International buyers also remain strong, with Colombia, Spain, and Canada among the top countries searching for Florida properties in 2025.

2. Why Are They Moving?

📌 Affordability & Taxes

• Florida has no state income tax, making it especially attractive to high-earners and retirees.
• Median home prices remain lower than in New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco—even with recent appreciation.

📌 Lifestyle

• Beaches, year-round sunshine, and lifestyle communities continue to draw buyers.
• Emerging hubs like Orlando’s Lake Nona and Tampa’s Water Street are being marketed as work-play-live destinations.

📌 Business & Remote Work

• Companies relocating to South Florida, coupled with remote-work flexibility, allow buyers to choose lifestyle first.

3. Hot Markets Beyond Miami

While Miami continues to attract luxury and international demand, other Florida metros are seeing the fastest migration-driven growth:

• Tampa → Nearly 6% YOY population growth; strong job market and relative affordability.
• Orlando → Expanding tech and medical sectors; family-friendly draw.
• Jacksonville → Lower cost coastal living; popular with remote workers seeking space.
• Fort Myers / Cape Coral → Retiree favorite with rising investor interest.

4. What This Means for Buyers & Sellers

For Buyers:

• More competition in midsize metros; moving quickly is key.
• Consider preconstruction options where inventory is tight.

For Sellers:

• Out-of-state buyers may value features like home offices, multigenerational layouts, or low HOA fees more than local buyers.
• Marketing your property to national and international audiences has never been more important.

For Agents:

• Educate relocating buyers on insurance, flood zones, and property tax rules.
• Position yourself as a relocation specialist—bridging lifestyle questions with market knowledge.

 

Final Thoughts

Florida’s migration wave isn’t slowing down in 2025—it’s just expanding. While Miami remains a global destination, new growth corridors across the state are reshaping the real estate map. Whether you’re buying, selling, or advising, the key is understanding who today’s buyers are and what motivates them.

At Redoc Realty, we connect local expertise with global perspective—helping you navigate Florida’s evolving real estate landscape with confidence.

📲 Ready to make your move in Florida? Call us at 786-898-0476 or visit redrocrealty.com.

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational purposes only. All data reflects reports available as of August 2025. Market conditions may vary by metro area. Always consult a licensed real estate professional before making buying or selling decisions.

Glossary of Key Terms

• Migration Report: Real estate data showing where buyers are moving to and from.
• Preconstruction: Buying a property before it is built, often at a lower price point.
• Relocation Specialist: An agent experienced in guiding out-of-state or international buyers.
• Work-Play-Live Community: Mixed-use neighborhoods designed for residential, commercial, and leisure use.

Sources

• Zillow – Housing Market Migration Trends 2025: https://www.zillow.com/research/
• Redfin – Where Americans Are Moving in 2025: https://www.redfin.com/news/housing-migration-trends/
• Axios Miami – Florida remains the nation’s top relocation market: https://www.axios.com/local/miami/
• Florida Realtors – Market Data 2025: https://www.floridarealtors.org/news-media