Moving from Maryland to Florida

Those moving from Maryland to Florida are among many Americans relocating to “The Sunshine State.” Between 2020 and 2024, Florida gained roughly 1.8 million new residents--an 8% increase over those four years.

Former Maryland residents enjoy Florida’s warm weather, nice beaches, and large attractions. Maryland residents will also find that Florida is a comparatively more affordable place to live. Let’s discuss what to know before moving to Florida.

What’s the Price of Relocation? Estimating Your Move to Florida

A move from Maryland to Florida is a distance of 900 miles or more, with estimated linehaul charges of $3,300. Keep in mind that linehaul charges are rough calculations based on distance and weight.

DIY moves are potentially less expensive, yet they might be stressful and possibly more costly in the long run. Professional moving companies can help you avoid the hassles of packing and loading and ensure that your belongings arrive undamaged.

Typically, more affordable rates are found during the winter months compared to the “peak” summer months. Also, consider moving mid-week instead of weekends when the demand is highest. Use our cost calculator for more detailed moving cost estimates.

What’s the Cost of Living in Florida

Is there a difference in the cost of living in Florida vs Maryland? The following are comparisons:

• Housing: The median home price in Maryland is $513,000 compared to $433,000 in Florida, while the average rent in Maryland is $1,859 and $1,955 in Florida.
  
  
• Utilities: The average monthly utility expenses in Maryland are $664 compared to $580 in Florida.
  
  
• Groceries: Recent data show that weekly grocery prices in Maryland were an estimated $287 and $266 in Florida.
  
  
• Transportation: The costs of vehicles, fuel, and public transportation between these states are negligible—approximately $5,400 annually.
  
  
• Healthcare: Annual estimated healthcare costs in Maryland are $10,839 compared to $9,856 in Florida.
  
  
• Insurance: Averaging $4,210, car insurance rates in Florida are significantly higher than $2,832 in Maryland.
  
  
• Property taxes: In 2024, property taxes in Maryland averaged $4,483 compared to $3,509 in Florida.

Where to Live: The Best Cities for Newcomers in Florida

The “best” cities for those relocating to Florida largely depend on your specific situation. For example, young singles, families, and retirees often have different preferences and priorities. Among the most popular cities for newcomers include:

Melbourne

Located on the state’s eastern Atlantic coast, Melbourne’s population is about 86,000. The above-average school system, below-average crime rate, and strong job market make Melbourne appealing to families.

Sarasota

Consistently rated among the best places to retire, the Sarasota metro area has more than 800,000 residents. Sarasota offers a “small-town” feel, many housing options, abundant recreational activities, and excellent seafood restaurants.

Jacksonville

Positioned on Florida’s northeastern coast, Jacksonville has nearly 1 million residents and a thriving art, cultural, and music scene. The cost of living in Jacksonville is below the national average, and outdoor activities are plentiful.

Orlando

Centrally located in Florida, Orlando has over 300,000 residents and is a major tourist draw with Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. Orlando is also a very diverse city with a strong job market.

Miami

Located on Florida’s southeastern coast, Miami’s metro area is home to more than 6 million and attracts more than 20 million annual visitors. The cost of living is high, but Miami is a cultural and financial center with abundant sunshine located near Everglades National Park.

Tampa

Tampa is a sprawling Gulf Coast region of 3 million people, including St. Petersburg and Clearwater. The economy in Tampa is very diverse and thriving, particularly in real estate, insurance, finance, and healthcare.

How Florida’s Climate Compares to Maryland’s

Maryland residents relocating to Florida will escape the cold, icy winters. For example, in Jacksonville, on Florida’s northernmost coast, the daytime high temperatures are normally in the mid-to-high 60s. This reprieve from wintry conditions appeals to those who enjoy golf, tennis, bicycling, and other outdoor activities.

Beaches, Theme Parks & Sunshine: What Makes Florida Unique

Some of the exciting attractions found in Florida include:

• Coast: Florida has over 800 miles of beaches, including Delray Beach, Palm Beach, and Siesta Key.
  
  
• Attractions: The top destinations include Universal Orlando Resort, Walt Disney World, Busch Gardens, and Kennedy Space Center.
  
  
• Culture: With a diverse cultural mix, roughly 27% of Floridians identify as Hispanic or Latino, including those of Cuban or Puerto Rican origin.
  
  
• Cuisine: Florida has excellent seafood, including stone crab, spiny lobster, pompano, and conch fritters.

Make Your Move Easy with North American Van Lines

Long-distance moves, such as from Maryland to Florida, can pose many challenges. North American Van Lines is a professional moving company with over 90 years of experience offering comprehensive services. We provide solutions for packing, long-distance transportation, short or long-term storage, and auto transport. We encourage you to visit our site today for a free quote!